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April 02, 2008

Nagarjuna Construction - NCC Infra & Maytas Infra to develop Gulbarga and Shimoga airports | INRnews

Bangalore, India, April 02, 2008 - Nagarjuna Construction Company Ltd has announced that NCC Infrastructure Holdings Ltd and Maytas Infra Ltd, Hyderabad based construction and infrastructure development Companies on April 02, 2008 announced that they have signed a Project Development Agreement (PDA) with the Infrastructure Development Department (IDD), Government of Karnataka to develop and operate airports proposed at Gulbarga and Shimoga on a BOT basis.

Era Infra secures construction orders | INRnews

Mumbai, India, April 02, 2008 - Era Infra Engineering Ltd has announced that the Company has secured an order valued at approximately Rs 4 crore from Jeet builders Pvt Ltd for supply of Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) for the construction of multi storied residential complex at Greater Noida.

Era Infra secures construction orders | INRnews

Mumbai, India, April 02, 2008 - Era Infra Engineering Ltd has announced that the Company has secured an order valued at approximately Rs 4 crore from Jeet builders Pvt Ltd for supply of Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) for the construction of multi storied residential complex at Greater Noida.

Era Infra secures construction orders | INRnews

Mumbai, India, April 02, 2008 - Era Infra Engineering Ltd has announced that the Company has secured an order valued at approximately Rs 4 crore from Jeet builders Pvt Ltd for supply of Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) for the construction of multi storied residential complex at Greater Noida.

March 31, 2008

IFC establishes Infrastructure Advisory Facility | INRnewsIFC establishes Infrastructure Advisory Facility | INRnews

Mumbai, India, March 31, 2008 - IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, together with multilateral and bilateral donors, has established an infrastructure advisory facility to help the South Asia region develop bankable infrastructure projects, largely through public-private partnerships. This reaffirms IFC's strategic focus on infrastructure, one of the sectors where IFC is needed most.

GMR Infrastructure - DIAL ties up with Indraprastha Apollo Hospital for medical facilities at Delhi Airport | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 31, 2008 - GMR Infrastructure Ltd has informed BSE that Delhi International Airport Pvt Ltd (DIAL), subsidiary of the Company has selected Indraprastha Apollo Hospital to provide medical facilities in line with its commitment to providing superior medical facilities to air passengers and employees at Indira Gandhi International (I.G.I) Airport.

March 23, 2008

GMR Infrastructure - GHIAL gets clearance to commence operations at Hyderabad Intl Airport | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, March 23, 2008 - GMR Infrastructure Ltd has informed BSE that GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL), a subsidiary Company had received notification from Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) to commence commercial operations at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Shamshabad, Hyderabad from 0001 hours on March 23, 2008.

March 11, 2008

Goldstone Infratech enters solar energy sector | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, March 11, 2008 - Continuing its expansion into high-growth sectors, Goldstone Infratech Limited (BSE: 533439; NSE: GOLDINFRA), formerly Goldstone Teleservices Limited, today announced that it was foraying into the renewal energy space by setting up a five MW solar power plant and a production facility to manufacture photo voltaic modules for solar power generation.

March 10, 2008

C & C Constructions awarded Himachal Pradesh infrastructure contracts | INRnews

Mumbai, India, March 10, 2008 - C & C Constructions Ltd has announced that the Company has been awarded two contracts amounting to Rs 202 crores from the Himachal Pradesh Road and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd.

March 08, 2008

Bengaluru Int'l Airport conducts final flight trials | INRnews

Bangalore, India, March 08, 2008 - The flight trials conducted today at the Bengaluru International Airport in a near live environment heralded its operational readiness.  Kingfisher Airlines, Air Deccan and the Indian Air force, whose aircrafts landed and took off at the Bengaluru International Airport, participated in the trials to ensure a smooth airport opening.

Bengaluru Int'l Airport conducts final flight trials | INRnews

Bangalore, India, March 08, 2008 - The flight trials conducted today at the Bengaluru International Airport in a near live environment heralded its operational readiness.  Kingfisher Airlines, Air Deccan and the Indian Air force, whose aircrafts landed and took off at the Bengaluru International Airport, participated in the trials to ensure a smooth airport opening.

February 02, 2008

Delhi International Airport acquires state of art runway equipement| INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 02, 2008 - GMR Infrastructure Ltd has announced that Delhi International Airport Pvt Ltd (DIAL), a subsidiary of the Company, has acquired state of the art runway de-rubberizing equipment, called the TrackJet. This ultra modern equipment utilises a revolutionary hi-pressure water jet technology to clean up rubber deposits on the runway's surface.

January 22, 2008

UK wants to be a genuine partner in developing India's Infrastructure | INRnews

New Delhi, India, January 22,2008 - Speaking at the inaugural session of the UK-India Infrastructure Conclave on January 16, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), in Delhi, Digby, Lord Jones of Birmingham, UK Minister for Trade and Investment said that his country wants to be a genuine partner in developing India's infrastructure and not just a contractor. Given India's rising stature in the global sphere, he also endorsed India's membership of the UN Security Council and the G-8. He said that several British companies such as Bombardier and Mott McDonald are already engaged in developing India's infrastructure. He projected UK as an attractive and open global financial centre, ready to share its expertise and participate in India's PPP ventures in the infrastructure sector.

January 21, 2008

BOA of SEZs grants 11 formal and 1 in-principle approvals | INRnews

New Delhi, India, January 21, 2008 - The Board of Approval of the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) met here today to consider proposals for setting up of Special Economic Zones and also approve other miscellaneous requests pertaining to SEZs.  In this meeting, 19 proposals for setting up SEZs, including 2 proposals for conversion of in-principle approvals to formal approvals were considered.  The Board recommended grant of 11 Formal approvals (including 2 requests for conversion of In-Principle Approvals to Formal Approvals) and 1 In-principle approval of a Multiproduct SEZ by Reliance Haryana SEZ Limited in Jhajjar District, Haryana.

India invites UK investment in infrastructure | INRnews

New Delhi, India, January 21, 2008 - India is seeking investments from UK in the areas like highway projects, bridges, expressways, ports, power generation, water plants, water management techniques. This was conveyed by Shri Kamal Nath, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, during the India-UK CEOs Round Table, here today, and added that so far investments from UK was mainly from the sectors such as telecom, chemicals, fuels, service sector etc. The Round Table was attended by Lord Digby Jones, UK Minister of State for Trade and Investment and Dr. Ashwani Kumar, Minister of State for Industry, besides senior officials from both the countries.

Minister approves construction of bridge in Tamil Nadu | INRnews

New Delhi, India, January 21, 2008 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a sum of Rs. 161.09 lakh for construction of High Level Bridge at 116/8 km of NH-210 across Anjukottai supply channel in Sivagangai district in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Union Cabinet approves construction of new airport in Kannur, Kerala | INRnews

New Delhi, India, January 21, 2008 - The Union Cabinet has given its approval for setting up of a Greenfield International Airport through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) at Kannur, Kerala.

Union Cabinet approves transfer of Nagpur Airport to JV for upgradation to world class hub | INRnews

New Delhi, India, January 21, 2008 - The Union Cabinet has given its ‘in-principle’ approval for transfer of Dr. Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur to the Joint Venture Company comprising AAI and Maharashtra Airport Development Company Ltd. For upgradation of the airport to a world class Multi Modal International Passenger and Cargo Hub (MIHAN).  The Union Cabinet also gave its approval to invest an amount of Rs. 4.90 crore by AAI in the equity of the Joint Venture Company.

Construction work to start on Rohtang Tunnel | INRnews

Shimla, India, January 21, 2008 - Construction work of 9 KMs. long Rohtang Tunnel below Rohtang Pass was likely to start by May, 2008. This was revealed by Prof. Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister, on receiving a communication from Shri M.M.Pallam Raju, Union Minister of State for Defence here today.

Pipavav Shipyard plans Rs 2900 crore shipyard project | INRnews

Mumbai, India, January 21, 2008 - Pipavav Shipyard Limited is currently constructing a shipyard complex at Pipavav, located on the west coast of India adjacent to the maritime sea lane between the Persian Gulf and Asia. The Shipyard will have an estimated investment of Rs 2,888 crore. Upon completion of construction, the Pipavav Shipyard will be capable of ship construction and repairs for a range of vessels of different sizes and types, as well as the fabrication and construction of   offshore platforms, rigs, jackets and vessels,  for use by oil and gas companies in their exploration and production activities.

DLF signs MoU with Gayatri Projects to develop infrastructure Projects | INRnews

New Delhi, India, January 21, 2008 - DLF Ltd has announced that the Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gayatri Projects Ltd (GPL), one of the leading infrastructure Companies in India, to develop roads and highway projects across the country.

January 11, 2008

AIG launches AIG Infrastructure & Economic Reform Fund | INRnews

Mumbai, India, January 11, 2008 - AIG Investments today announced the launch of the AIG Infrastructure and Economic Reform Fund, an open-ended equity scheme. The fund will invest in companies that may benefit from potential investments in infrastructure and unfolding economic reforms without having any bias towards any sector or market capitalization range.

January 10, 2008

Supreme Infra bags Rs 71.99cr contract from Thane Coporation | INRnews

Mumbai, India, January 10, 2008 - Supreme Infrastructure India Ltd (SIIL), an infrastructure development company engaged in civil construction activities, has bagged a building construction contract worth Rs 71.99 crores from Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC). This is in Joint Venture with M/s. Chawla Interbild. This work of construction of RCC building in Thane City (Tulsidham) is part of BSUP scheme. The contract will be executed in a period of 18 months.

Supreme Infra bags Rs 71.99cr contract from Thane Coporation | INRnews

Mumbai, India, January 10, 2008 - Supreme Infrastructure India Ltd (SIIL), an infrastructure development company engaged in civil construction activities, has bagged a building construction contract worth Rs 71.99 crores from Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC). This is in Joint Venture with M/s. Chawla Interbild. This work of construction of RCC building in Thane City (Tulsidham) is part of BSUP scheme. The contract will be executed in a period of 18 months.

Bharati Shipyard to build Green Field Shipyard in Dabhol | INRnews

Mumbai, India, January 10, 2008 - Bharati Shipyard Limited, one of the leading Private Sector Shipyard, today announced its plan to construct a Green Field modern shipyard at Usgaon near the Dabhol port in Ratnagiri district.

January 03, 2008

Parsvnath Developers to set up Pharma SEZ in Nanded, Maharashtra | INRnews

New Delhi, India, January 03, 2007 Parsvnath Developers Ltd has announced that in pursuance to development of SEZs, Parsvnath SEZ Ltd (PSL), a subsidiary of the Company, will develop a Pharmaceutical Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Nanded in Maharashtra. The Company has received LoI from Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), a Maharashtra Govt. Undertaking for development of Pharma SEZ project in krushnoor Industrial Area of Nanded which is in close proximity to the SH-6 connecting Nanded and Secunderabad.

January 02, 2008

IRB Infra gets SEBI go ahead, IPO by 3rd week | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, January 02, 2008 - Mumbai-based IRB Infrastructure Developers Limited, an infrastructure development and construction company in India with significant experience in the roads and highways sector, has received SEBI observations for its public issue of 51,057,666 Equity shares of Rs 10 each through 100% book building process.

Ramky Infrastructure Limited files DRHP with the SEBI | INRnews

Mumbai, India, January 02, 2008 - Ramky Infrastructure Limited (the “Company”), an integrated construction, infrastructure development and management company in India with a strategic emphasis on environmental oriented projects, has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (“DRHP”) with the Securities & Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”) to enter the capital market soon with an Initial Public Offering (“IPO”) of equity shares of Rs 10 each for cash at a price (“Equity Shares”) to be decided through a 100% book-building process and aggregating to Rs 4,000 million.

January 01, 2008

500 acre Nano Biosym park proposed in Solan, Himachal Pradesh | INRnews

Shimla, India, January 01, 2008 - Dr. Anita Goel, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of US Company Nanobiosym met Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prof. Prem Kumar Dhumal at New Delhi yesterday and discussed with him about setting up of first Nano -Biosym Park in the country.

December 31, 2007

Global developers respond to RFQ development of world-class railway stations | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 31, 2007 - The process for prequalification of bidders for the development of 22 railway stations as world class stations has been initiated. A global advertisement in this regard has already been issued by the Ministry of Railways. The Request for Qualification (RFQ) document is now available on the Ministry of Railway’s website http://indianrailways.gov.in. A calendar for bringing the process to the climax of appointing the concessionaire is also available in the RFQ document. Word class developers have already shown interest and good competition is expected. Ministry of Railways has decided to develop 22 railway stations, located in metropolitan cities and major tourist centres, as world class stations through Public Private Partnership (PPP) route be leveraging a part of the real-estate development potential. Required consultancies are being carried out for architectural, technical, financial and legal activities. Needed coordination with local bodies is being carried out by high level committees specially constituted.

December 28, 2007

BSEL issues US$35 million worth of GDRs | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, December 28, 2007 - BSEL Infrastructure Realty Limited has completed an issue of 2,147,202 GDRs raising amount of US$35 million. The GDRs will be listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange today. The underwriter for the transaction was Rodman & Renshaw, LLC, a subsidiary of Rodman & Renshaw Capital Group, Inc and Fortress Financial Services Ltd.

December 27, 2007

Indian Railways: Strides of Progress in 2007 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 27, 2007 - In the past few years, Indian Railways have registered an unprecedented turnaround in its fortunes that has helped launch itself towards a path of gigantic growth and development, keeping in view the future transportation needs of the economy.   Milestones have been bettered and sights set on newer ones, especially those that beckon it during the 11th Plan period such as the freight loading target of 1100 million tonnes during that period.

Achievements/initiatives of the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation in 2007 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 27, 2007 - The Ministry of Civil Aviation has highlighed ints achievements and initiatives in the year 2007 in its year end review.

December 19, 2007

Delhi Airport Development moves into a new phase | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 19, 2007 - The ongoing modernization of Indira Gandhi International Airport moved into a new phase when the Honorable Minister for Civil Aviation, Mr. Praful Patel inaugurated the ‘Concrete Pouring’ process for the first slab of the Integrated Passenger Terminal Building (PTB). The Honorable Minister was also apprised on the status modernization and development works being carried out by Delhi International Airport (P) Limited to transform IGIA into a world class facility.

December 18, 2007

Map region will be a counter magnet to migration to chennai | INRnews

Chennai, India, December 18, 2007 - “The development of towns and cities around Chennai, as envisaged by the Marakkanam, Arakkonam and Pulicat (MAP) Chennai Region, would strengthen the urban phenomenon in Tamil Nadu and absorb the shock of migration to Chennai. The MAP Chennai region would act as a counter magnet to the wave of migration to the metropolitan area, in the same way the National Capital Region comprising cities such as Gurgaon and Noida reduced the net rate of migration to Delhi,” said Mr S Jaipal Reddy, Minister for Urban Development, Government of India. He announced that the Central Government would soon give its nod to the Chennai Metro Rail project and help the State Government introduce Bus Rapid Transport System in Chennai and the tier II cities of Coimbatore, Trichy and Madurai.

December 15, 2007

CII INFRA 2007 to propose 'MAP' region for development in Tamil Nadu | INRnews

Chennai, India, December 15, 2007 - Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Tamil Nadu State Council is all set to propose the development of 'MAP' region (comprising Marakkanam, Arakkonam, and Pulicat) to build a strong Greater Chennai Region for balanced and inclusive regional development in Tamil Nadu.

December 14, 2007

ADB Loans India $500M to Promote Public-Private Partnership Infrastructure Projects | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 14, 2007 - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide India with up to $500 million in loans designed to promote public-private partnerships between the government and private sector in order to ramp up investments in infrastructure.

December 13, 2007

DIAL launches Delhi airport website | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 13, 2007 -  GMR Infrastructure Ltd has announced that Delhi International Airport Pvt Ltd (DIAL), a subsidiary of the Company, launches Phase II of Delhi Airport's Website with added new features to provide additional information to passengers.

Banks, Fls buy 9% in GMR Infra for $1 billion | INRnews

Mumbai, India, December 13, 2007 - A CLUTCH of domestic banks and foreign financial investors has picked up around 9% stake in GMR Infrastructure, the flagship company of GMR Group, for around $1 billion, through a qualified institutional placement (QIP) the largest among such recent deals.

PPP must for the success of MRTS | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 13, 2007 - Mass Rapid Transport System needs effective public private partnerships to modernize intra-city mobility, said Mr Gajendra Haldea, Advisor, Infrastructure, Planning Commission.

December 12, 2007

GMR Infrastructure Limited QIP Issue Oversubscribed | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 12, 2007 - GMR Infrastructure Limited approved the issue of 165,238,088 equity shares of Rs 2/- each at the Issue Price of Rs. 240 per equity share aggregating to an Issue size of Rs. 39,657.1 million under Chapter XIII-A of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Disclosure and Investor Protection) Guidelines, 2000 (the “SEBI Guidelines”). The Issue Price is above the floor price calculated in accordance with clause 13A.3 of the SEBI Guidelines. Citigroup Global Markets India Private Limited, Kotak Mahindra Capital Company Limited, JM Financial Consultants Private Limited, J.P Morgan India Private Limited, Lehman Brothers Securities Private Limited, UBS Securities India Private Limited acted as the Global Coordinators and Book Running Lead Managers for the Issue.

December 07, 2007

DIAL to raise loans aggregating Rs 4940 crore | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 07, 2007 -  Delhi International Airport (P) Ltd (DIAL) a Public Private Partnership Initiative mandated to modernize and restructure Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi has signed key financing documents with its project lenders for Rs. 3,650 Crore and foreign currency loan of USD 350 Million for modernization and expansion of Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi.

Energy Sector requires $500 billion worth of investment during the 11th five year plan period | INRnews

Ahmedabad, India, December 07, 2007 - The Indian power sector group companies have achieved 154 percent growth in market capitalization indicating phenomenal amount of investor's confidence said Chief Guest, Mr R V Shahi, Former Secretary, Ministry of Power, Government of India, while addressing at India Energy Conclave 2007, organized  concurrent with  3 day long 3rd International Exhibition – "Energy Expo 2007"  by CII in Ahmedabad

December 04, 2007

Policies to attract investment in infrastructure are in place | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 04, 2007 | Speaking at a session on 10% Growth: The Infrastructure Picture at the India Economic Summit on Tuesday, Mr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, India said now that the policies to attract private sector investment in infrastructure are in place, the scale of activity needs to increase.

J Kumar Infraprojects to enter capital market | INRnews

Mumbai, India, December 04, 2007 - J. Kumar Infraprojects Limited (the "Company"), an ISO 9001:2000 certified civil engineering and infrastructure development company with a primary focus on development of roads, flyovers, bridges, railway over bridges, irrigation projects, commercial and residential buildings, railway buildings, sports complexes and airport runways, has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus ("DRHP") with the Securities and Exchange Board of India ("SEBI"). It will enter the capital market soon with an Initial Public Offering ("IPO") of 65,00,000 equity shares of Rs 10 each for cash at a price ("Equity Shares") to be decided through a 100% book-building process.

December 03, 2007

Infrastructure not the only impediment to Building Centres of Excellence | INRnews

New Delhi, India, December 03, 2007 - Though infrastructure of the bricks and mortar kind is a key issue it is not the only impediment to building Centres of Excellence in India. This was the central theme of the panel discussion on Building Centres of Excellence: A Global Approach at the India Economic Summit, 2007 organized jointly by Confederation of Indian Industry and World Economic Forum in New Delhi. Outlining the impediments to building Centres of Excellence, which serve as visible signs of progress, Mr. Nandan M.Nilekani, Executive Co Chairman, Infosys Technologies, India and Member of the Foundation Board of the World Economic Forum said, I would characterize the impediments as three separate problems – lack of infrastructure, neglect of urbanization and a fragmented market within the country. He said that while India had succeeded in building a functional democracy, it has so far failed at the seemingly easier task of building roads and other infrastructure.

November 29, 2007

3i India Infra Fund to invest US$101m in Soma Enterprise | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, November 29, 2007 - 3i India Infrastructure Fund (the “Fund”), an investment fund established by 3i Group plc (“3i”), a leading global private equity and venture capital company, has invested US$101 million for a minority stake in Soma Enterprise Limited (“Soma”), a Hyderabad-based engineering and construction firm. Company director Ankineedu Maganti and his family will maintain a large majority stake in the business.

November 27, 2007

Rs 817 crore project to augment water supply in Hyderabad approved | INRnews

New Delhi, India, November 27, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for the Krishna Drinking Water Supply Project Phase-II for augmentation of water supply in Hyderabad city at a cost of Rs.817.62 crore. The expenditure incurred up to 31.03.2006 on the project is Rs.211.12 crore. Therefore, the cost for reimbursement under JNNURM will Rs.606.50 crore and release of Additional Central Assistance to the extent of Rs.212.275 crore being the share of the Government of India, in the manner prescribed under the guidelines.

November 24, 2007

Simplex Infra bags Rs 580cr worth ICTT project at Kochi | INRnews

Kochi, India, November 24, 2007 - Simplex Infrastructures Ltd., one of India’s leading infrastructure solutions providers, today, has been awarded the largest marine project, ICTT Kochi Phase 1A Civil Works, at Kochi by DP World. The project is worth Rs. 580 crore and is proposed to be completed within a period of 24 months.

November 23, 2007

India needs $475 bn infrastructure investment in five years to support growth | INRnews

New Delhi, India, November 23, 2007 - India needs an investment of $ 475 billion in infrastructure in the next five years to support 9% growth of which $120 – 130 billion of the investment requirement would come from foreign investment, said Mr. P Chidambaram, Union Minister of Finance, at  an interactive session with Mr. Arni Mathiesen, Minister of Finance, Iceland, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), here on Friday.

November 20, 2007

Gulf Finance House to invest over US$ 2 billion in Mumbai | INRnews

Mumbai, India, November 20, 2007 - Bahrain-based Gulf Finance House (GFH) is investing over US$ 2 billion in a green field site close to Navi Mumbai, near to the commercial capital's airport. GFH has already raised US$ 630 million towards the initial development and infrastructure requirements of the project.

ADB helping India promote PPP in infrastructure | INRnews

Mumbai, India, November 20, 2007 - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing a $2 million grant to help the government of India increase cooperation between the public and private sectors in infrastructure development.

GTL Infrastructure signs MOU with IDFC Project Equity | INRnews

Mumbai, India, November 20, 2007 - GTL Infrastructure Ltd (GTL Infra) has announced that the Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IDFC Project Equity Company Ltd. (IDFC Project Equity), to form a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) that shall address the Telecom Tower Infrastructure acquisition opportunities.

Nagarjuna Construction consortium to develop Gulbarga and Shimoga airports in Karnataka | INRnews

Bangalore, November 20, 2007 - Nagarjuna Construction Company Ltd has announced that Infrastructure Development Department, Government of Karnataka, has selected a consortium of Maytas Infra Ltd (Maytas), NCC Infrastructure Holdings Ltd., (A 100% subsidiary of the Company) and VIE India Project Development and Holding LLC (VIE) to develop and operate airport proposed at Gulbarga and Shimoga on BOT basis.

Kolkata based real estate developer Merlin Group to invest Rs 2,000 crore in the state | INRnews

Kolkata, India, November 20, 2007 - Kolkata-based real estate developer  Merlin Group is to invest around Rs 2,000 crore by 2010 to create industrial infrastructure, commercial and residential real estate projects in West Bengal.

November 14, 2007

Improvement of container traffic at Kolkata and Haldia Ports | INRnews

Kolkata, India, November 14, 2007 - The high powered committee constituted by the Shipping Ministry to look into the problems associated with the container traffic at Kolkata and Haldia has submitted its report to the Minister for Shipping, Road Transportation and Highways, Thiru T. R. Baalu, here today. The committee has suggested both short term and long term recommendations to cope with the likely growth in container traffic at both these ports. The Report was presented by the Chairman of the Committee Capt. P V K Mohan to Thiru Baalu.

Kamal Nath stresses public-private partnership for healthcare infrastructure | INRnews

New Delhi, India, November 14, 2007 - Shri Kamal Nath, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, has stressed on developing new infrastructure for the healthcare sector in view of the tremendous opportunities that are available for public-private partnership. Speaking at the 4th India Health Summit “Healthcare Engagement: Strategies and partnerships” here today, the Minister said: “Large windows of opportunities are opening up. To give just one example, Indian medical tourism was estimated at $350 million in 2006 and this has the potential to grow into a $2 billion industry by 2012”.

November 13, 2007

Post Panamax Quay Cranes & RTGs arrive at Port Pipavav | INRnews

Pipavav, India, November 13, 2007 - Last week, Port Pipavav received three state-of-the-art, post-panamax quay cranes and 10 RTGs from ZPMC, China. The quay cranes have been designed keeping in mind the increasing vessel sizes on the West Coast of India and to deliver world-class operations at the port.

Latest developments and policy initiatives in Civil Aviation in India | INRnews

New Delhi, India, November 13, 2007 - This article summarises the latest developments and policy initiatives in Civil Aviation in India including policies and plans on new airports.

November 12, 2007

UTI MF launches UTI- Infrastructure Advantage Fund-Series I | INRnews

Mumbai, India, November 12, 2007 - UTI Mutual Fund today announced the launch of a new scheme, UTI-Infrastructure Advantage Fund-Series I.  The new fund offer (NFO) opens on November 12, 2007 and closes on December 19, 2007. Units can be purchased only during the NFO period.

Minister approves Rs 32 crore road repair works in Madhya Pradesh | INRnews

New Delhi, India, November 12, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a sum of Rs.32 crore for road improvement projects in the state of Madhya Pradesh. 

November 08, 2007

CCEA approves operator to develop Mumbai Port offshore container terminal | INRnews

Mumbai, India, November 08, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for Development of Offshore Container Terminal on Build, Operate and Transfer basis at Mumbai Port, under Licence Agreement to be entered into by Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) with the BOT operator namely, aConsortium of M/s. Gammon India Limited, M/s. Gammon Infrastructure Limited and M/s. Dragados SPL, Spain. 

November 06, 2007

Union Minister approves road repair works in Tamil Nadu | INRnews

New Delhi, India, November 06, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a number of road improvement projects in Tamil Nadu.

Foreign airlines to fly to Calicut from Q1 2008 | INRnews

Calicut, India, November 06, 2007 - There has been a hundred percent increase in international flights to and from the state of Kerala including Calicut in the last three years. During the recent visit of the Minister for Civil Aviation Shri Praful Patel to Calicut, the Minister had announced that operation of foreign airlines to and from Calicut would be started from the first quarter of 2008. In the interest of more reliable connectivity to the state of Kerala, Air India will soon provide stand by aircraft for its Kerala operation.

We urge state governments to roll our infrastructure projects: Mrs. Sindhushree Khullar | INRnews

Bhubaneswar, India, November 06, 2007 -  We urge state governments to roll out infrastructure projects – big or small – said Mrs Sindhushree Khullar, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance at a workshop for states on Public Private Partnerships (PPP) at Bhubaneshwar. This is part of an initiative taken by the DEA and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to spread awareness about the framework for PPP projects under state governments. She described the PPP route as the unavoidable option for closing the glaring the infrastructure deficit that is visible across states, with the economy growing so fast.

November 05, 2007

Eredene Capital PLC in JV to develop a 72-acre logistics park in Haldia | INRnews

London, UK, November 05, 2007 - Eredene Capital PLC (AIM: ERE), the AIM quoted Indian property developer, today announces that its wholly owned subsidiary Aboyne Mauritius Limited (together “the Eredene Group”) has acquired a 50% stake in a joint venture company to develop a planned 72-acre integrated logistics park in Haldia, West Bengal, which is a growing trading port and commercial hub for the East Indian city of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta).

Minister approves road repair works in Uttar Pradesh | INRnews

New Delhi, India, November 05, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a sum of Rs. 3122.22 lakh for road improvement work in the State of Uttar Pradesh.

November 03, 2007

SPV for funding infrastructure projects approved | INRnews

New Delhi, India, November 03, 2007 - The Union Cabinet today gave its approval  to the following proposals for establishment of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for funding infrastructure :

November 01, 2007

MARG Constructions forges association with Pembinaan Redzai of Malaysia | INRnews

Mumbai, India, November 01, 2007 - Karaikal Port Private Ltd (KPPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of MARG Constructions Ltd signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Pembinaan Redzai Sdn Bhd, a leading Malaysian entity, to explore potential co-operation on a variety of areas for the Karaikal Port project.

CII welcomes TN's proposal for Chennai-Bangalore industrial corridor | INRnews

Chennai, India, November 01, 2007 - Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Tamil Nadu State Council has welcomed today Tamil Nadu Chief Minister,  Dr Kalaignar M Karunanidhi’s proposal to the Prime Minister to announce the development of the Chennai-Bangalore industrial corridor as an Industrial Corridor of Excellence on the lines of the Delhi-Mumbai industrial corridor.

October 31, 2007

Aviation Grid, 500 Mega & 6 Regional Airports proposed In Aviation Policy | INRnewsAviation Grid, 500 Mega & 6 Regional Airports proposed In Aviation Policy | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 31, 2007 - The government will notify its New Civil Aviation Policy by first quarter of 2008 to facilitate creation of 500 mega and 6 regional airports and develop mechanism for aviation grid for setting up of multi-model merchant airports, besides make its 100 airports operational, whose number is 50 now.

Lee Kuan Yew urges infrastructure upgradation in India to fuel growth | INRnews

New Delhi, October 31, 2007 - Mr Lee Kuan Yew, Mentor Minister, Republic of Singapore, said “India is on a roll. It’s the Indian  season and it’s the flavour of international investors.” He made these remarks while presiding over a CEOs Lunch Meeting, hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in his honour here on Wednesday. Mr Lee, however said that poor infrastructure is slowing down India’s progress. “But I think India will find its rightful place in the international scene as we are seeing more  investments in roads, bridges, airports, container ports etc,” he said. 

Financial assistance for new infrastructure projects in NCR | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 31, 2007 - The  Project Sanctioning and Monitoring Group of the NCR Planning Board met under the Chairmanship of Shri M. Ramachandran, Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development, here today to discuss progress of implementation of infrastructure development projects financed by the Board in the National Capital Region and in five counter magnet towns of Bareilly, Hissar, Patiala, Gwalior and Kota and sanction financial assistance for new infrastructure development projects in the region.

October 30, 2007

DLF announces financial results for Q2 FY08 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 30, 2007 - DLF Limited, India’s largest real estate Company, recorded consolidated revenues of Rs 3,349 crore for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, an increase of 7.3% from Rs 3,121 crore in the first quarter of the current fiscal. EBIDTA was at Rs 2,363 crore, an increase of 5% as compared to Rs 2,251 crore in Q1 FY08. Net profit stood at Rs 2,018 crore, up by 32% from Rs 1,524 crore. The non annualized EPS for the quarter was Rs 11.83.

Tata Realty And Infrastructure Limited (TRIL) and Jafza International form a joint venture | INRnews

Mumbai, India, October 30, 2007 - Tata Realty And Infrastructure Limited (TRIL), a 100-per cent subsidiary of Tata Sons, today signed a 50:50 joint venture with Jafza International, the global operation arm of Economic Zones World of Dubai UAE to develop and operate a chain of business and logistics parks across India.

Minister approves construction of bridge on NH-80 in Bihar | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 30, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a sum of Rs.1101.06 lakh for High Level Bridge across river Vena in the state of Bihar.

October 26, 2007

Hindustan Construction receives Rs 983 crore of new orders | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 26, 2007 - Hindustan Construction Company Ltd has announced that it has received three major orders in transportation and water sector worth Rs 983 crores. These include Rs 774.64 crore (HCC share Rs 256 crore) order of construction of two underground stations and a tunnel between New Delhi and Talkatora Garden stations from Delhi Metro Rail Corporation and two projects from BMC for water tunnel construction worth Rs 727 crores.

Minister approves road repair works in Karnataka | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 26, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a sum of Rs.1254.61 lakh for road improvement work in the state of Karnataka.

October 23, 2007

Indian Civil Aviation Ministry drafts guidelines for greenfield airports | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 23, 2007 - The Committee on Infrastructure (COI) headed by the Prime Minister, on 18th April 2007 had directed the Constitution of an Inter Ministerial Group (IMG) under the chairmanship of Secretary (Civil Aviation) to recommend the principles, guidelines and licencing conditions for greenfield airports. This was done with a view to bridging the growing deficit in airport infrastructure. The anticipated investment in airport development during the Eleventh Plan is over Rs.40,000 crores, both from public and private sources, including for greenfield airports. It is, therefore, necessary to lay down the policy guidelines that would govern proposals for setting up greenfield airports, other than defence airports.

October 19, 2007

Civil Aviation in India - an overview | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 19, 2007 - Domestic and international traffic have seen an acceleration of growth in recent years.  In the 12 months to 31 March, 2007, airlines carried 35 million domestic passengers (up 39.5% year-on-year) and 22.4 million international passengers (up 15.1%).  This follows domestic traffic growth of 28% the previous year and 20% the year before.  Domestic traffic has consequently doubled in the space of three years.

BOA of SEZ grants 10 formal and 3 in-principle approvals | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 19, 2007 - The Board of Approval of the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) has recommended grant of 10 formal and 3 in-principle approvals here today.   The Chairman of the Board, while informing the members stated that including the latest SEZ approvals a total of 395 SEZs formal approvals have been granted. He further informed that out of these, 156 SEZs have been notified and investment of Rs.50,906 crore has taken place  in these notified SEZs providing direct employment to over 72168 persons.

October 18, 2007

Noida Toll Bridge Company Limited announces half-yearly results | INRnews

London, UK, October 18, 2007 - The Board of Directors of Noida Toll Bridge Company Limited (NTBCL) approved the Company’s audited results for the half year / quarter ended September 30, 2007, today. NTBCL, the Concessionaire for the Delhi Noida Toll Bridge, has reported a net profit after tax of Rs. 81.83 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007 as against Rs. 21.45 million for the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

GMR Infrastructure net operating revenues up 26 % in Q2 FY 2008 | INRnews

Bangalore, India, October 18, 2007 - GMR Infrastructure Limited (GIL), India’s premier infrastructure bell weather company announced its financial results for the first half year and second quarter ended September 30, 2007 today. Commenting on the results Mr. G.M. Rao, Group Chairman, said “Our numbers are growing as per expectations. The present results reflect only a small aspect of the true operating potential of our assets and as more of our businesses are operationalised to optimum capacity, we are confident of posting substantial growth in performance, thereby resulting in continued value accrual for all our stakeholders. However, we continue to consolidate our position as an innovative Infrastructure player, moving in rapidly to identify domestic as well as international investment opportunities.”

October 11, 2007

CII Indian Cities delegation leaves for Europe | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 11, 2007 - The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) delegation led by Mr. Joaquim Alemao, Minister, State Urban Development, Goa is on a visit to Europe from 10 – 17 October, 2007. This delegation will visit Europe as a follow up to the first EuroIndia Forum held in Goa earlier this year. The CII delegation consists of representatives from Ahmedabad, Goa and Kolkata.

Infrastructure development can ramp up India's GDP growth to 10-11% | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 11, 2007 - The President of ADB Mr. Haruhiko Kuroda, together with a group of senior members from ADB met a delegation of Indian companies to discuss the issue of infrastructure finance. Mr. Kuroda said that infrastructure development in India could increase the rate of GDP growth from the current level of 8-9% to about 10-11%, as seen in the case of China. Mr. Kuroda also emphasized the importance of PPPs in mobilizing resources for the infrastructure sector. India’s experience in designing and executing such partnerships could then become a lesson for other emerging economies. 

October 09, 2007

Parsvnath Developers - Parsvnath Dehradun SEZ gets notified | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 09, 2007 - Parsvnath Developers Ltd has announced that the Company has received the final Notification from the Central Government for the setting up of IT / ITES SEZ at Sahastra Dhara Road at Dehradun (Uttaranchal). With this, the Company now has three notified product specific SEZs for IT / ITES Sectors at Indore, Gurgaon and Debradun, which will be executed by the Company's Subsidiary, Parsvnath SEZ Ltd.

PM inaugurates national conference on JNNURM | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 09, 2007 - Prime Minister Dr.Manmohan Singh has said that the Government is considering the idea of offering further incentives to States and cities that implement reforms on a faster track. The Prime Minister was speaking at a National Conference on Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) which he inaugurated here today. He urged the State and Local Governments to advance the timelines for implementation of reforms so that the Mission’s objectives are met within the time specified. For example, the reforms pertaining to improving Urban Local Body Finances could be completed within the first three years of the Mission. This will enable these bodies to become viable and eligible to enlist institutional finance, he added.

CCEA approves $250 million FDI in SKIL Infrastructure | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 09, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for M/s. SKIL Infrastructure Ltd., Mumbai to accept foreign investments from M/s. GL Asia Mauritius II Ltd., Mauritius upto 26% amounting to US$250 million (Approx.Rs.1000 crore) by way of issue of 1 lakh interest accruing secured convertible debentures of Rs.1 lakh each for making downstream investments in M/s. Mumbai SEZ Ltd., M/s. Navi Mumbai SEZ Ltd.,  M/s. Pipavav Shipyard Ltd., M/s. SKIL Himachal Infrastructure and Tourism Ltd., M/s. Gujarat Positra Port Company Ltd. and M/s. Logistics Project; or in such other projects which are compliant with the Foreign Direct Investment policy of the Government of India.

CCEA approves Rs 1680 crore purchases for heavy water reactors in Gujarat and Rajasthan | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 09, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for the procurement of long delivery equipments as a pre-project activity for four 700 MWe PHWRs at an estimated expenditure of Rs.1680 crore ahead of the project financial sanction.

CCEA approves Rs 185 crore Visakhapatnam Port upgradation project | INRnews

Visakhapatnam, India, October 09, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approvals for up-gradation and modernization of iron ore handling facilities at the Outer Harbour of Visakhapatnam Port at an estimated cost of Rs. 185.15 crores.

October 08, 2007

Eredene Capital PLC invests in a container freight station at Pipavav port in Gujarat | INRnews

London, UK, October 08, 2007 - Eredene Capital PLC (AIM: ERE), the AIM quoted Indian Property Developer, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Aboyne Mauritius Limited (together the “Eredene Group”) has acquired a major stake in a Container Freight Station (CFS) to serve the Indian port of Pipavav. This is the Eredene Group’s second real estate investment in a CFS in India, where there is rising demand for container service facilities, and its third investment since shareholder approval of its broadened investment strategy.

Minister approves road repair works in Andhra Pradesh | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 08, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a sum of  Rs. 40 crores under the  Central Road Fund (CRF) Scheme for road improvement works  in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

Development of non-metro airports in India | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 08, 2007 - The Government of India had approved a plan for modernization of 35 non-metro airports. Airports Authority of India (AAI) was mandated to undertake development of these airports to world-class standards. The work on construction of new terminals and expansion/upgradation of runways, apron etc. is in full swing and several new terminals are likely to be completed during the current financial year.

October 05, 2007

Public Private Partnershis best way to create an enabling environment for state Projects | INRnews

Kochi, October 05, 2007 - Addressing the Conference jointly organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance Government of India, Mr. Arvind Mayaram, Joint Secretary mentioned that the overall response to the call to promote PPP as the preferred mode for the implementation of infrastructure was encouraging but, limited to a few sectors.

October 03, 2007

DLF to develop New Bangalore City township in Bidadi | INRnews

Bangalore, India, October 03, 2007 - As per the announcement made by Karnataka government spokesperson, DLF has been awarded a project to develop  'New Bangalore City' in Bidadi following a global tender issued by Bangalore Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (BMRDA).

October 01, 2007

CCEA approves accelerated road development program for North East | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 01, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval:

CCEA approves allocation for industrial infrastructure upgradation scheme | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 01, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for the following:

CCEA approves infrastructure development of Panchkula, Mohali and Naya Raipur | INRnews

New Delhi, India, October 01, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for the infrastructure development of Panchkula and Mohali near Chandigarh, and Naya Raipur in Chhatisgarh under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

September 29, 2007

Private sector expects to invest upto 25 per cent in Indian Infrastructure projects: | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 29, 2007 - The private sector expects to invest upto 25 per cent of the total investments needed in infrastructure sector in the next 5 years. This was revealed by 79 per cent of the CEOs in a CII CEOs snap poll on Infrastructure conducted by CII and was more than the international average of about 20 per cent participation in infrastructure investment by the private sector.

September 26, 2007

Gurgaon infrastructure development required to make it a world city | INRnews

Gurgaon, India, September 26, 2007 - CII Haryana State  Council  facilitated an interaction between the Industry and the Government of Haryana for sustaining the Growth Momentum of Gurgaon  at the CII Conference Hall in Gaurgaon today.The Interaction was basically on the issues in terms of infrastructure development, security issues that would need to be pursued for Gurgaon to become a truly Global City and also to sustain this rapid growth momentum. Mr Rakesh Gupta, Deputy Commissioner, Gurgaon, Mr Mohinder Lal, Commissioner-Police Gurgaon were present at this Session.

September 25, 2007

Minister approves road repair works in Gujarat | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 25, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a sum of Rs. 4907.57 lakh for strengthening and widening of 23 road stretches in different parts of the state of Gujarat for a total length of Rs. 253.33 km. The approval has been given under the Central Road Fund (CRF) Scheme of the Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways.

September 21, 2007

Pimpri Chinchwad residents residents to get new link road | INRnews

Pune, India, September 21, 2007 - The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is to build a bridge on Pavana river at Ravet linking the Pimpri-Chinchwad township and the Pune-Mumbai expressway. The bridge will link Ravet to Punawale village in the township.

September 20, 2007

Major Indian cities do not meet air quality standards | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 20, 2007 - As per the 2005 Environmental Sustainability Index (ESI) the ranking of India is at 101 position out of 146 countries. The Central Pollution Control Board(CPCB) is executing a nation-wide programme of ambient air quality monitoring known as National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP). Based on the monitoring of ambient air quality, fifty-one (51) non-attainment cities have been identified in the country in which the  prescribed Respirable Particulate Matter (RSPM) levels, specified under the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), are not met.

More rail lines needed for DMIC project development | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 20, 2007 - Shri Kamal Nath, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, has stressed on constructing more rail lines and improving their gauges for the development of industrial nodes being taken up under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) Project.   In his communication of 19th September to the Railway Minister, Shri Kamal Nath has focussed on the crucial need for the development of rail networks especially in Madhya Pradesh where the rail route kilometer length is much less than the neighbouring states.   This is needed to ensure that the DMIC Project gets on stream as per the schedule and benefits reach to the stakeholders.  The Commerce and Industry Minister has identified the following rail works that need to be sanctioned or the work expedited through higher allocation of funds:

Development of rail network crucial for DMIC - Minister | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 20, 2007 - Shri Kamal Nath, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, has stressed on constructing more rail lines and improving their gauges for the development of industrial nodes being taken up under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) Project. In his communication sent to the Railway Minister here today, Shri Kamal Nath has focussed on the crucial need for the development of rail networks especially in Madhya Pradesh where the rail route kilometer length is much less than the neighbouring states.  

September 19, 2007

Tulip IT Services bags West Bengal State Wide Area Network project worth Rs 53 Crores | INRnews

Kolkata, India, September 19, 2007 - Tulip IT Services Ltd on September 19, 2007 has announced that it has been awarded the West Bengal State Wide Area Network Project. The network will be established on the Build Own Operate & Transfer (BOOT) model and the total value of the current component of the bid, that has been awarded to the Company, is in excess of Rs 53 Crores. The Company's Services will deploy, manage and operate the entire network for a period of five years.

SREI Infrastructure Finance to issue 25 mln shares to Promoter Group | INRnews

Mumbai, India, September 19, 2007 - SREI Infrastructure Finance Ltd has announced that the board of directors of the Company has proposed a preferential issue of up to 25,000,000 warrants to the Promoter Group, which on conversion, will increase their holding to over 35 per cent from the existing level of 20 per cent.

SREI Infrastructure Finance to issue 25 mln shares to Promoter Group | INRnews

Mumbai, India, September 19, 2007 - SREI Infrastructure Finance Ltd has announced that the board of directors of the Company has proposed a preferential issue of up to 25,000,000 warrants to the Promoter Group, which on conversion, will increase their holding to over 35 per cent from the existing level of 20 per cent.

September 18, 2007

NHAI signs concession agreement for four laning of Chattisgarh - Maharashtra border section of NH6 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 18, 2007 - The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed the Concession Agreement for four laning of Chattisgarh / Maharashtra Border –Wainganga Bridge Section of NH – 6 from Km 405.000 to km 485.000 in the State of Maharashtra on Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis under National Highways Development Project (NHDP) Phase III at a total project cost of Rs. 424 Crore.

September 17, 2007

Committee on Delhi - Gurgaon link road setup | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 17, 2007 - The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has approved the appointment of a high level committee to coordinate the development of new road links between Delhi and Gurgaon. The committee will be chaired by the Member Secretary of the Planning Commission with the following members.

LANCO Infratech signs strategic agreement with Gulftainer | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, September 17, 2007 - LANCO Infratech Limited, India entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Gulftainer Company Limited, UAE to co-operate on a variety of port and transportation projects.

September 11, 2007

East-West corridor to be substantially completed by 2009 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 11, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has said that the East-West Corridor which, passes through the States of Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat, is likely to be substantially completed by 2009. Speaking at the Parliamentary Consultative Committee Meeting of the Ministry, Thiru T.R. Baalu said that on completion, this Corridor would open up new opportunities for the people residing in these States and lead to all round economic development of these States. The subject of the today’s Consultative Committee Meeting was the progress of work on the East West Corridor.

September 08, 2007

Delhi Airport Modernization Process on Track | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 08 Sep, 2007 - Delhi’s dream of having a world class airport will soon be true. The modernization of the Indira Gandhi International Airport being carried out by Delhi International Airport (P) Limited is on schedule. A team of senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Ministry of Urban Development visited the construction site to apprise themselves of the progress of the project. Currently, work is on simultaneously for the construction of a new domestic terminal, the modernization of the existing international terminal, a world class integrated passenger terminal (Terminal 3) and a third runway for the airport.

September 07, 2007

Arshhiya Tech to invest Rs 350cr in CFS & Logistics Park | INRnews

Mumbai, India, September 07, 2007 - Arshhiya Technologies International Ltd., an India based integrated supply chain services company with global presence (through it’s network of partners - BDP International and Genco), has announced the approval of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Department of Commerce, Infrastructure Division - Government of India for setting up a Container Freight Station (CFS) near JNPT Port for handling import and export cargo. The adjacent area will also include a Logistics Park. The cost of the proposed CFS and Logistics Park project will be approximately Rs. 350 crores.

September 02, 2007

Madhya Pradesh industrial infrastructure to get a boost from DMIC project | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 02, 2007 - Shri Kamal Nath, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry has accorded the approval to the Pitampura-Dhar-Mhow industrial region in “Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor” Project. In his communication to the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, here today, Shri Kamal Nath has expressed confidence that with this approval, the state of Madhya Pradesh would join other front line states in developing the state-of-the-art Industrial infrastructure and investment environment in the country.

September 01, 2007

Himachal Pradesh highways project to make ride to Simla easy | INRnews

New Delhi, India, September 01, 2007 - The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed the Concession Agreement for 4/6-laning of Zirakpur-Parwanoo Section of NH-22 including Pinjore - Kalka - Parwanoo Bypass, in the States of Punjab (2 km), Haryana (21 km) and Himachal Pradesh (6 km) on Build Operate & Transfer (BOT) basis under National Highways Development Project (NHDP) Phase III.

August 31, 2007

Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway project to cost more | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 31, 2007 - Railways’ ambitious project to connect Kashmir valley to rest of India through Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway track is going to cost more than what was estimated earlier.

August 30, 2007

SAIL to set up greenfield steel plants in Jharkhand and chhatisgarh | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 30, 2007 - Steel Authority of India Ltd. (SAIL) has planned to set up two greenfield plants, one each in the States of Jharkhand and Chattisgarh.  The plant in Jharkhand, envisages to achieve a capacity of 6 million tonne per annum by 2012-13 and 12 million tonne per annum by 2019-20.  The plant in Chattisgarh also envisages to have a capacity of 4 million tonne per annum and would be joint venture with RINL and NMDC.

August 29, 2007

Allow MF/FIs To Launch DIFs For Infrastructure Building: ASSOCHAM | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 29, 2007 - The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) has suggested granting permission to mutual fund companies and financial institutions to launch Dedicated Infrastructure Funds (DIFs) with a view to mobilise resources to develop key sectors such as power, roads, rail, ports, airports to help India move  a higher growth trajectory of 10% during 11th plan period.

August 27, 2007

GMR Energy’s Bajoli Holi power project takes off | INRnews

Shimla, India, August 27, 2007: In a significant step to boost the state’s power generation capacity, the Himachal Pradesh government has awarded the 180 MW Bajoli Holi project to GMR Energy.  Mr. B.V.N. Rao, Managing Director, GMR Energy, today handed over the cheque as ‘Upfront Premium Payment’ of the Holi Bajoli Hydro-power project to the Chief Minister Shri Virbhadra Singh. The step marks an important milestone in the development of this project which will generate 180 MW of power.

August 25, 2007

ITD Cementation bags Rs 893cr Delhi Metro Rail contract | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 25, 2007 - ITD Cementation India Ltd in joint venture with its promoter, Italian-Thai Development Public Co. Ltd, Thailand has been awarded Letter of Acceptance for a Rs.893 Crore contract from Delhi Metro Rail Corporation.

S S Lootah Group zeroes in on India for infrastructure projects | INRnews

Dubai, UAE, August 25, 2007 - The UAE-based multi-billion dollar business conglomerate, S. S. Lootah Group, which has varied investment interests across a broad spectrum of industries in the UAE, Asia, Africa and Europe, has zeroed in on Infrastructure, Oil and Gas, Energy, Information Technology and Health sectors in India and has identified potential partners after a four day visit to India.

August 23, 2007

Era Constructions awarded Hyderabad Urban Development Authority highway contract | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, August 23, 2007 - Era Constructions India Ltd has announced that Era Infra Engineering Ltd (EIEL) jointly with Induni CIE & SA., a 100 year old Swiss company and an acknowledged market leader in the highway construction has bagged a prestigious order "Design, Construction, development, Finance, Operation and Maintenance of Eight lane access controlled highway under Phase-II A Programme as an extension of Phase I of ORR to Hyderabad City, in the State of Andhra Pradesh, India, for the package from Narsingi to Kollur from Km 0.00 to Km 12.00 on Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) (Annuity) Basis through an Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) Company M/s Hyderabad Ring Road Project Pvt. Ltd.

August 22, 2007

Japanese PM for early conclusion of CEPA to triple India-Japan trade to $20 billion by 2010 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 22, 2007 - The Japanese Prime Minister, Mr. Shinzo Abe, has favored early conclusion of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to boost India-Japan economic relations and triple bilateral trade to US$ 20 billion in the next three years.

Infrastructure - promising business areas between India and Japan | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 22, 2007 - On the world’s economic map, India is the fourth largest economy. Most economic indicators highlight the fact that India is emerging as a preferred destination for global investors. Against this background, one such association that has grown over the years is between India and Japan, with Japan being the fifth largest investor in India.

August 21, 2007

Infrastructure Lending becoming Top Priority of Commercial Banks | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 21, 2007 - Led by power, roads & ports and telecom sectors, the credit disbursement by the  banks to the infrastructure sector has grown at an impressive compound annual growth rate of 31 per cent during the last six years but the maximum growth in the credit was witnessed in the last two years at 43 per cent and 36 per cent, according to The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).

India to be established as a global aviation hub | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 21, 2007 - The Government is committed to create a network of world-class airports in the country with a view to establishing India as a global aviation hub.  Measures have been taken to augment capacity as a result of which additional capacity to handle 601.05 lakh passengers per annum on the domestic sector and 301.80 lakh passengers per annum on international sector is under construction and is likely to be commissioned within the next two – three years. This information was given by Shri Praful Patel in a written reply to a question.

Lanco Infratech to construct new airport terminal in Varanasi | INRnews

Varanasi, India, August 21, 2007 - Lanco Infratech Ltd has announced that the Company received letter of acceptance from Airports Authority of India awarding the Company the work for the Construction of a new Terminal Building at Varanasi Air Port at negotiated amount of Rs 82.39 Crores.

Indian Infrastructure Project Development Fund under consideration | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 21, 2007 - A revolving fund with a corpus of Rs. 100 crore to quicken the pace of preparation of a shelf of bankable projects which can be offered for competitive bidding was announced by Finance Minister in the Budget Speech 2007-08. India Infrastructure Project Development Fund scheme, to operationalise the Fund is under consideration of the Government.

GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd incorporates three subsidiaries | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, August 21, 2007 - GMR Infrastructure Ltd has announced that GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL), a subsidiary of the Company, has incorporated the following three wholly owned subsidiary Companies for the objects specified against them respectively.

Infrastructure Lending becoming Top Priority of Commercial Banks | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 21, 2007 - Led by power, roads & ports and telecom sectors, the credit disbursement by the  banks to the infrastructure sector has grown at an impressive compound annual growth rate of 31 per cent during the last six years but the maximum growth in the credit was witnessed in the last two years at 43 per cent and 36 per cent, according to The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).

August 20, 2007

Sobha Developers to build Kochi township in massive Kerala real estate deal | INRnews

Kochi, India, August 20, 2007 - Sobha Developers Ltd has announced that the Company will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Kerala on August 20, 2007 at Thiruvananthapuram for setting up the largest township development in Maradu, Kochi - SOBHA HITECH CITY. Maradu is a high potential part of Kochi City with a number of  developments including five star hotels, shopping malls and IT parks coming up here.

Dharavi Redevelopment Project in Mumbai attracts interest from real estate developers | INRnews

Mumbai, India, August 20, 2007 - Over 20 real estate developers are likely to bid for the massive Dharavi Redevelopment Project that envisages a potential of 70 million sq ft built-up space. According to news reports, over Rs 1,000 crore could be raised from all five sectors. The government will award only  one sector per developer. The bidding is to begin before October.

Per capita power consumption in India | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 20, 2007 - The National Electricity Policy envisages that the per capita availability of electricity  will be increased to over 1000 units by 2012. The   per capita consumption of power in the country in 2005-06 as calculated by the Central Electricity Authority has been about 631 Kilowatt Hours. This information was given by Union Power Minister Shri Sushilkumar Shinde in the Rajya Sabha today. 

India power projects update | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 20,2007 - In this article INRnews provides an update on power projects including the Ultra Mega Power Projects, Tala Transmission System and Power projects in Uttarakhand.

August 17, 2007

Indiabulls Real Estate plans projects across India | INRnews

Mumbai, India, August 17, 2007 - Indiabulls Real Estate Limited (IREL) with projects covering a total land area in excess of 10000 acres is one of the largest listed real estate companies in India and a leading national player across multiple realty and infrastructure sectors. IREL projects include High-end Office and Commercial Spaces, Premium Residential Developments, Integrated Townships, Luxury Resorts and Special Economic Zones. INRnews summarises the various projects Indiabulls Real Estate is undertaking.

August 16, 2007

Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor project given approval | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 16, 2007 - The Union Cabinet today gave in principle approval to the following proposals in regard to Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) Project outline :

August 13, 2007

Fitch Comments On Asia's Infrastructure Finance Euphoria | INRnews

Singapore, August 13, 2007 - Fitch Ratings notes, in its "Infrastructure Finance in Asia - Boom, Bust and In Between", that investment is the "big buzz" in Asian financial and government circles these days. The present euphoric environment, in which construction contracts and bank loans are closed in record time, with little attention to risk analysis and mitigation, ignores Project Financing's real nature, and its history in Asia.

August 09, 2007

Indian Urban Development Ministry approves five JNNURM projects | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 09, 2007 - The Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committe of the Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India at a recent meeting has approved the following projects subject to the conditions laid down in the approval. The meeting was chaired by Shri M.Ramachandran, Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development.

Indian Cabinet Committee approves six laning of selected national highways | INRnews

New Delhi, India,  August 09, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for six laning of following four section of the existing four lane National Highways under National Highways Development Project (NHDP) Phase-V on Design, Build, Finance and Operate (DBFO) pattern:

August 07, 2007

CII Session Highlights Power Reforms in Punjab as Pre-Requisite for Industrial Growth | INRnews

Chandigarh, India, August 07, 2007 - Power being a vital economic driver and critical enabler for industrial growth, the State Government's endeavor is to make the optimum utilization of power resources at its disposal with major emphasis on generation of the additional power coupled with implementation of long term solutions, stated Mr Suresh Kumar, Secretary Power, Government Punjab, while addressing the select industry members at the Interactive Session organized by CII Punjab State Council at the CII Northern Region Headquarters here in Chandigarh today

August 06, 2007

GMR Infrastructure signs MOU with TIDCO for a Multi Product Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Tamil Nadu | INRnews

Chennai, India, August 06, 2007 - GMR Infrastructure Ltd has announced that the Company on August 06, 2007 entered into an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) for the development of a Multi Product Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Krishnagiri District, Tamil Nadu. The signing ceremony was done in the presence of the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Shri. M Karunanidhi at the Secretariat in Chennai.

Unity Infraprojects secures contract from Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai | INRnews

Mumbai, India, August 06, 2007 - Unity Infraprojects Ltd has announced that M/s. United Gulf Construction Company WLL — Unity Infraprojects Ltd - Joint Venture (being a Joint Venture between the Company and M/s. United Gulf Construction Company - WLL, Kuwait) has secured a contract from Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai for "Installation of Pipe lines by micro tunnelling method at various locations in Mumbai for existing water mains" amounting to Rs 28.33 crores.

Punj Lloyd bags Rs 590 crore contract from Bharat Oman Refineries Ltd | INRnews

Mumbai, India, August 06, 2007 - Punj Lloyd Ltd has secured a Rs 590 crore contract for building a sulphur block at Bins Refinery of Bharat Oman Refineries Ltd at Bins, Madhya Pradesh. The lump-sum turnkey contract entails engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning assistance (EPCC) services and has been bagged amidst stiff International competitive bidding.

CM releases a CII study on the industrial potential of Anantapur, Chittoor and Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, August 06, 2007 - The Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Y S Rajasekhara Reddy released IGNITE - The CII Study on the Industrial Potential of three districts of Andhra Pradesh - Anantapur, Chittoor & Kadapa in Hyderabad today in the presence of Dr. J Geeta Reddy, Hon'ble Minister for Sugar, Major Industries, Commerce and Export Promotion; Mr. Pradeep Dhobale, Chairman, CII Andhra Pradesh and Mr. Utpal Sen Gupta, Vice Chairman, CII Andhra Pradesh.

CM releases a CII study on the industrial potential of Anantapur, Chittoor and Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, August 06, 2007 - The Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Y S Rajasekhara Reddy released IGNITE - The CII Study on the Industrial Potential of three districts of Andhra Pradesh - Anantapur, Chittoor & Kadapa in Hyderabad today in the presence of Dr. J Geeta Reddy, Hon'ble Minister for Sugar, Major Industries, Commerce and Export Promotion; Mr. Pradeep Dhobale, Chairman, CII Andhra Pradesh and Mr. Utpal Sen Gupta, Vice Chairman, CII Andhra Pradesh.

August 04, 2007

Government to build IT townships | INRnews

New Delhi, India, August 04, 2007 - The latest player to enter India's booming real estate sector is its government. Plans are on to develop 6-7 new IT townships called Knowledge Townships. These are to be located close to major cities and international airports with private sector participation.

August 03, 2007

Supreme Infrastructure India’s IPO receives Sebi nod | INRnews

Mumbai, India, August 03, 2007 - Supreme Infrastructure India Limited (SIIL), a company in the infrastructure sector engaged in civil construction activities, has received the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) nod for its initial public offer (IPO) for the issue of 38.75 lakh equity shares.

August 02, 2007

GHIAL ties up with Apollo Hospitals for setting up medical centre in Hyderabad International Airport | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, August 02, 2007 - In line with its commitment to providing full services to air passengers and employees in the new international airport in Shamshabad, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL) has selected Apollo Hospitals for setting up a medical centre inside the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB).

August 01, 2007

Indian infrastructure needs $320 bn in the next 5 years | INRnews

Mumbai, India, August 01, 2007 - Dun & Bradstreet, the world’s leading provider of global business information, knowledge and insight today organized a conference on Dynamics of Infrastructure & Real Estate Markets: The Financial Perspective. With the Indian economy expected to grow at a rate of about 9% per annum over the next five years this conference stressed on the importance of infrastructure development as the key driver to sustain this momentum of current and potential economic growth.

July 31, 2007

Infrastructure identified as priority area by IFC | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 31, 2007 - IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, today reaffirmed its commitment to contribute to India’s economy by expanding its investments in private enterprises in the sectors where IFC is needed most. IFC Vice Presidents Farida Khambata and Declan Duff joined South Asia Director Paolo M. Martelli in India this week to discuss with government and private sector partners how to move ahead with IFC’s growing focus on India’s infrastructure, midsize companies, and financially underserved markets.

July 30, 2007

Parsvnath Developers records 180% increase in net profit at Rs 102 crore for Q1 FY08 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 30, 2007 - Parsvnath Developers Ltd, India’s leading real estate developer with a pan India presence, recorded consolidated revenues of Rs 414.46 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2007, an increase of 66.44% from Rs 249.01 crore in the corresponding quarter last fiscal. EBITDA was at Rs 152.14 crore, an increase of 162.31% as compared to Rs 58 crore in Q1 FY07. Net profit stood at Rs 102.18 crore, up by 179.56% from Rs 36.55 crore. The non annualized EPS at the end of the quarter was at Rs 5.53.

July 27, 2007

Government approves road improvement works in Haryana | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 27, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T. R. Baalu has sanctioned a sum of Rs. 86.70 Crore under the Central Road Fund Scheme for strengthening and improving various road stretches in the State of Haryana.

July 25, 2007

IDFC & IIFCL enter into MoU to finance infrastructure projects | INRnews

Mumbai, India, July 25, 2007 - Infrastructure Development Finance Company Limited (IDFC) and India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to combine their resources and expertise to finance infrastructure projects.

July 24, 2007

IDFC partners FTSE in creation of New India Infrastructure Index Series | INRnews

Mumbai, India, July 24, 2007 - Infrastructure Development Finance Company Ltd (IDFC) has informed BSE that the Company has partnered with FTSE to launch the First India Infrastructure Index. The "FTSE IDFC India Infrastructure Index Series" was launched on July 24, 2007 by the Hon. Union Finance Minister, Mr. P Chidambaram at New Delhi.

Maharashtra government tables draft housing policy | INRnews

Mumbai, India, July 24, 2007 - The Maharashtra Government has tabled a draft housing policy in the Legislative Assembly yesterday. Significant policy measures proposed include encouraging private investment in the housing sector, facilitating township development on the peripheries of cities, raising FSI limits, ensuring sale of apartments is on carpet-area basis only, allowing non-agriculturists to buy land, and no ceiling limits for holding land. Continue reading this article to view the full draft of the housing policy.

July 21, 2007

Rules for new toll policy under formulation | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 21, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways Thiru T.R. Baalu has said that the new Toll Policy has been finalized by the Government and the Toll Rules are under formulation. Speaking at the Conference of Chief Secretaries on ‘Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in Infrastructure’ organized by the Planning Commission here today, Thiru Baalu said that for toll collection, the Government has decided to shift to Electronic Toll Collection (ETC). Thiru Baalu chaired the Session on Highways at the Conference.

July 20, 2007

Restructuring of National Highways Authority of India | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 20, 2007 - The Union Cabinet today gave its approval to the following proposals for restructuring of the National Highways Authority of India:-

July 19, 2007

DLF bags Rs 6000 Crore Convention Center, Hotels and Commercial Services Project at Dwarka, New Delhi | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 19, 2007 - DLF Ltd has announced that Delhi Development Authority has awarded the design, development and operation of an International Convention Centre, proposed to be developed in Sector 24, Dwarka, New Delhi.

CM inaugurates Degremont Water Treatment Plant at Chembarambakkam | INRnews

Chennai, India, July 19, 2007 - Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi today inaugurated the Degremont built 530 MLD facility Water Treatment Plant, the second largest in the country at Chembarambakkam this evening.

July 18, 2007

NHAI signs four concession agreements for Tamil Nadu projects | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 18, 2007 - The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) today signed the Concession Agreement for four Projects to be executed in Tamil Nadu on Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis under National Highways Development Project (NHDP) Phase III at a total cost of Rs. 2,318 Crores for four laning of 343 km.

July 16, 2007

LANCO bags two toll road projects in Karnataka | INRnews

Bangalore, India, July 16, 2007 - LANCO Kondapalli Power Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of LANCO Infratech Ltd, has bagged the contract for construction and operation of two road projects in Karnataka on Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis under the National Highways Development Project (NHDP) Phase III.

July 05, 2007

IDFC Limited raises Rs. 2,100 crore through Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) | INRnews

Mumbai, India, July 05, 2007 - IDFC Limited today successfully placed its QIP offering of Rs. 2,100 crores through issue of 165,354,330 shares at a price of Rs. 127 per share. The issue generated significant interest from a number of high quality institutional investors across Asia including India, Europe and the United States. The proceeds of offering shall be used to augment its capital base, enhance the strength of its balance sheet for its lending operations, provide seed capital to some of the funds it manages, to explore opportunities in principal investments and for general corporate purposes.

July 04, 2007

Ministry of Civil Aviation puts airport at Greater Noida on the fast track | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 04, 2007 - The Ministry of Civil Aviation has received a techno-feasibility study and project report from the Government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) for setting up an airport at Greater Noida. The Ministry has considered the report and has assured the State Government of Uttar Pradesh that it would require approximately three months to get an ‘in-principle’ approval for the airport from the Government of India under the prevailing circumstances.

July 03, 2007

Minister stresses need for attention to highway safety | INRnews

New Delhi, India, July 03, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has said that there is a greater need to give special attention to the safety aspects relating to the interchanges and flyovers being constructed by NHAI within the cities and on stretches approaching the major cities.

June 22, 2007

Formal approval granted to 36 SEZs; in principle approval to 9 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, June 22, 2007 - The Board of Approval (BOA) of the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) met here today to consider proposals for setting up of Special Economic Zones and also approve other miscellaneous requests pertaining to SEZs. In this meeting, 53 applications for setting up SEZs were considered and 36 Formal approvals and 9 In-principle approvals were granted.

June 20, 2007

Work on Sethusamudram Channel Project to be completed by Dec | INRnews

New Delhi, India, June 20, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways, Thiru. T.R. Baalu has said that the work on the Sethusamudram Ship Channel Project (SSCP) would be completed before December, 2008. The Minister today reviewed the progress of the Project with the officials of the Sethusamudram Corporation Limited (SCL) and Dredging Corporation of India (DCI) besides other concerned agencies.

June 16, 2007

Major thrust on urban development under JNNURM | INRnews

New Delhi, India, June 16, 2007 - The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh reviewed the progress of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and reiterated the need for State Governments to pay greater attention to the reform of urban governance and the modernization of urban infrastructure, with special focus on the lives of the poor in urban areas.

June 15, 2007

Foundation stone laid for power project in Dadri | INRnews

New Delhi, India, June 15, 2007 - Delhi will get 90 per cent of the power generated from the 980 MW second phase of National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Project, Dadri, in view of the forthcoming Commonwealth Games while the Uttar Pradesh will share 10 per cent of the power generated.

Chennai Airport to be upgraded and modernised by AAI | INRnews

New Delhi, India, June 15, 2007 - The Prime Minister’s Committee on Infrastructure which met here today has decided that Chennai Airport will be upgraded and modernized by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The Committee has also asked for a pre-feasibility report for a greenfield airport near Chennai.

Committee on infrastructure approves proposal for modernisation of railway stations | INRnews

New Delhi, India, June 15, 2007 - In a move to make Indian Railways world’s number one Railway network, the Committee on Infrastructure approved the proposal for completing the first phase of modernization of the New Delhi railway station into a world-class station through Public Private Partnership before the Commonwealth Games, 2010 here today.

June 13, 2007

GHIAL awards Ground Handling concessions in New Hyderabad International Airport | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, June 13, 2007 - GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited, (GHIAL), which is developing the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Shamshabad, has awarded an important concession to carry out ground handling activities of third party airlines to two consortia namely Menzies & Bobba and SATS, Indian Airlines & Air India. This seven-year concession agreement is valid from the date of operation of the airport. GHIAL planned for two ground handling operators at the new Airport as part of its objective to have competitively provided services for the airlines.

June 06, 2007

Detailed project report soon for 250km Bangalore ring road | INRnews

New Delhi, India, June 06, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways Thiru T.R.Baalu, has said that his Ministry is working in right earnest on the 250 Kms Bangalore Ring Road project. During a meeting with the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy in Bangalore today, Thiru Baalu informed him that the consultants have already been appointed for preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the 250 Km Ring road project. Thiru Baalu said that after finalization of the DPR, this project would be included in the appropriate phase of the National Highway Development Programme (NHDP). The Minister for State for Road Transport & Highways Shri K.H. Muniyappa was also present during the meeting.

June 05, 2007

26 Formal and 9 in-principle SEZ approvals granted | INRnews

New Delhi, India, June 05, 2007 - The Board of Approval for the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) met here today to consider proposals for setting up of Special Economic Zones and also approve other miscellaneous requests pertaining to notified SEZs.

May 31, 2007

Government approves international airport in Navi Mumbai | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 31, 2007 - The Government today gave its approval for the construction of an International Airport at Navi Mumbai. The Airport will be developed as a Greenfield Airport through Public Private Partnership (PPP) along the lines of the Greenfield Airports at Hyderabad and Bangalore.

May 28, 2007

Prime Minister calls for wide ranging reforms in the power sector | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 28, 2007 - The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh has stressed the need for a wide range of power sector reforms including open access and competition. Emphasizing the role of States and Centre in this reform process, the Prime Minister suggested that inter-state transmission needs to be truly opened up to competition and a separate and independent government entity be set up to control the National Load Despatch Centre. In addition, he underscored the importance of reducing transmission and distribution losses, launching a crash programme for capacity addition and taking steps to attract private investment. Dr. Manmohan Singh said this while inaugurating the Conference of Chief Ministers on the Power Sector, here today, which was attended by Shri P. Chidambaram, Union Minister of Finance, Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, Shri Sontosh Mohan Dev, Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, several Union Ministers, Chief Ministers of States and Power Ministers of States.

May 25, 2007

Minister asks States to develop state highways on NHDP pattern | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 25, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road transport & Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has asked the States to formulate the plans for developing and strengthening the State Highways on the lines of National Highways Development Programme (NHDP) which is under implementation for the National Highways. Thiru Baalu was delivering the Valedictory address at the Conference on ‘Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in State Highways’ here today.

WTO views on SEZ rebutted, $8 billion investment in SEZ already made | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 25, 2007 - In the 15 months since the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act and Rules were notified on 10th February 2006, investments of the order of $ 8 billion have already been made and another $25 billion investment is underway. This was indicated in the reply on behalf of India by Shri G.K. Pillai, Commerce Secretary, at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Trade Policy Review Meeting for India in Geneva today.

Higher investment in infrastructure needed to maintain growth momentum | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 25, 2007 - Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia today called upon the Private Sector to prepare for a bigger role in the development of infrastructure. Inaugurating the Conference on Public Private Partnership in State Highways, here, he said latest estimates of the Planning Commission indicate that economy was likely to grow at an average of 9 per cent plus during the Eleventh Plan period. This would need a major increase in the investment requirement for infrastructure.

May 24, 2007

Indian infrastructure can absorb more than $150 billion FDI - Minister | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 24, 2007 - The Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Praful Patel has asked British investors to participate in a big way in India’s development saying that Indian infrastructure alone can absorb $150 billion FDI over the next five years.

GHIAL awards Plaza Premium Lounge to manage Lounges in New Hyderabad International Airport | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, May 24, 2007 - In continuation of its quest in bringing world-class airport services to Hyderabad, the New Hyderabad International Airport in Shamshabad has tied up with Plaza Premium Lounge of Hong Kong for maintaining and managing LOUNGES in the airport. This concession agreement is for a period of 7 years starting from the date of operation of the airport.

May 23, 2007

Rural Road Development Plan Vision-2025 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 23, 2007 - The `RURAL ROAD DEVELOPMENT PLAN : VISION 2025’ was released here today by the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh during the inaugural session of the two-day National Conference on Rural Roads organized by the organized by the National Rural Roads Development Agency (NRRDA), an autonomous agency under the Ministry of Rural Development and the Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC).  Some of the salient features of the Plan are given below:

PM inaugurates national conference on rural roads | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 23, 2007 - The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, while inaugurating the National Conference on Rural Roads, here today, organized by the National Rural Roads Development Agency (NRRDA), an autonomous agency under the Ministry of Rural Development and the Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC), has said that rural roads connectivity is a critical component of the overall strategy for rural development as it promotes access to economic and social services and facilitates the growth processes in the rural economy.

May 22, 2007

Minister announces details of merged airlines | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 22, 2007 - The Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Praful Patel today officially announced that after the merger of Air India and Indian, the new entity will be known as ‘Air India’. While the new company will have its registered office in New Delhi, its corporate office will be in Mumbai and its office for domestic operations as well as the Strategic Business Units will be mostly based in Delhi. The Mascot of the merged airline will be the Maharaja. The new livery and logo of the merged airline were also unveiled by the Minister today.

May 18, 2007

Ministry of Civil Aviation evolves the concept of Merchant Airports | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 18, 2007 - In order to evolve the concept of ‘Merchant Airports’, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Shri Ashok Chawla held a meeting with various stakeholders with a view to finalizing a policy initiative on the subject shortly.

May 17, 2007

Integrated development of towns needed to develop new growth centers - Minister | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 17, 2007 - Union Urban Development Minister Shri S. Jaipal Reddy says that most cities in the country have reached the saturation point and integrated development of towns beyond the cities has emerged as a viable alternative for new growth centers. He was delivering the inaugural address at the annual convention of Indian Buildings Congress in New Delhi today. He stated that towns need a long term-planning framework and prioritize infrastructure investment. Shri Reddy is of the view that integrated development should involve the stakeholders to foster ownership and to allow benefits to every section of the society.

Agreement on Trans-Asian Railway | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 17, 2007 - Railways have recently approved the signing and ratification of the Inter-governmental agreement on Trans-Asian Railway.

AAI to construct cargo complex at Trivandrum airport | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 17, 2007 - The Airports Authority of India (AAI) plans to construct a cargo terminal facility adjacent to the Terminal Building at the Trivandrum Airport. This information was given by Shri Praful Patel, Minister for Civil Aviation in the Parliament today.

Big Ships at Indian Ports | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 17, 2007 - Depending on the depths available in the entrance channels and berths, and the availability of equipment, vessels of various sizes are handled at Indian Ports.

Cost of road construction nd NHDP-II | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 17, 2007 - The average cost per km for Phase-II of National Highways Development Project (NHDP) was approved at Rs. 4.75 crore for upgradation to 4-lane for flexible pavement and Rs. 6.45 crore per km for rigid pavement at 2002 prices. However the cost as considered in the Financing Plan for NHDP Phase-II, approved by Committee on Infrastructure, is now Rs. 6.52 crore per km at 2006 prices.

Freight Corridor project | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 17, 2007 - Ministry of Railways have decided that existing safety surcharge now stands subsumed in passenger fares in form of a development charge for partial funding of Dedicated Freight Corridor project. It is expected that Rs. 845 Crore per annum would accrue in form of development charge. No additional levy has been imposed to fund Dedicated Freight Corridor project.

Second Palace on Wheels train | INRnews

New Delhi, India, May 17, 2007 - Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC), which is the nodal agency for booking of tourists for the Palace on Wheels train have registered 7380 requests and out of these 4120 are confirmed bookings for the ‘Palace on Wheels’ upto 30th April, 2009.

Automated Parking Management system at New Hyderabad International Airport | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, May 17, 2007 - In line with its commitment to bring world-class services to Hyderabad, the New Hyderabad International Airport in Shamshabad has been set in motion by setting up an Automated Parking Management System at the airport premises.

May 10, 2007

Sahara Infrastructure & Housing launch Sahara City Homes Lucknow | INRnews

Lucknow, India, May 10, 2007 - Sahara Infrastructure & Housing (Sahara I&H), a real estate company, today launched Sahara City Homes township in Lucknow. The township is the first one of the ‘Sahara City Homes’ townships which Sahara Infrastructure and Housing will be developing in 217 cities across India.

May 03, 2007

New Hyderabad International Airport leases land to Indian Airlines for MRO facility | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, May 03, 2007 - GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd, (GHIAL) has signed a lease agreement with Indian Airlines Limited (IA) for setting up Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) facility at the upcoming Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at Hyderabad.

April 12, 2007

CCEA approves multiple national highway projects | INRnews

New Delhi, India, April 12, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for the multiple National Highway projects.

CCEA approves Bihar highway projects | INRnews

New Delhi, India, April 12, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for highway projects in Bihar.

Cabinet approves 4 lane highway to Cochin container terminal | INRnews

New Delhi, India, April 12, 2007 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for undertaking the Project for Rs.557.0 crore for providing 4 lane NH Connectivity to the proposed International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) at Vallarpadam, Cochin, Kerala using cess funds.

Rs 2537 crore released for urban infrastructure projects in 2006-07 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, April 12, 2007 - Rs.1353 crore have been released as the first installment of central assistance for the projects under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission during 2006-07. Out of the approved projects, 64 are for water supply, 39 for sewerage, 39 for road and flyovers, 27 for drainage and 20 for solid waster management. 205 projects have been approved involving a total cost of Rs. 17,000 crore. These projects will get central assistance of about Rs. 8300 crore.

April 05, 2007

Freeze on SEZs lifted - ceiling on size fixed at 5000 hectares | INRnews

New Delhi, India, April 05, 2007 - The Empowered Group of Ministers (EGOM) on Special Economic Zones (SEZs) met here today and discussed various issues relating to SEZs.  It decided, inter-alia, to lift the current freeze on SEZs, with tighter rules and prescribed a ceiling on the size of SEZs, which has now been fixed at an upper limit of 5000 hectares.

April 04, 2007

Minister calls for building world class infrastructure in major ports | INRnewsMinister calls for building world class infrastructure in major ports | INRnews

New Delhi, India, April 04, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping Road Transport and Highways Thiru T.R. Baalu has called upon the Major Ports to brace themselves for the challenges ahead and strive hard for developing the Indian ports to meet the growing demands of country’s burgeoning export-import needs in the coming years.

Empowered committee seeks pollution free traffic in Delhi and NCR | INRnews

New Delhi, India, April 04, 2007 - The first Meeting of the Empowered Committee of the National Capital Region Planning Board was held under the Chairmanship of Secretary, Urban Development Ministry, Shri M. Ramachandran in New Delhi today. Chief Secretary of Haryana, Additional Chief Secretary of Rajasthan besides senior officials from the Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi and other officials from the Central Government Departments, attended the meeting.

The meeting discussed issues relating to unrestricted movement of buses, taxis and auto rickshaws within the National Capital Region, use of CNG fuel to reduce pollution levels in the towns of National Capital Region, opening large number of CNG Pump Stations in the NCR as well as improving connectivity in the National Capital Region both by extension of Metro to satellite towns around NCT of Delhi as well as better framework of roads in preparation for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games-2010.

March 18, 2007

Indian real estate market permeates to smaller towns and cities | INRnews

Mumbai, India, March 18, 2007 - According to leading global property consultancy firm Knight Frank, the real estate action is no longer limited to the large metropolises of India but has now permeated to the burgeoning smaller towns and cities. These emerging centres of growth are lending sparkle to India's booming economy. What is leading this transformation?

March 17, 2007

FICCI Real Estate and Urban Infrastructure Delegation to Singapore | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 17, 2007 - In order to facilitate and promote business interests in the real estate and urban infrastructure sector between India and Singapore FICCI is taking a business delegation to Singapore from April 2 to 4, 2007.

March 16, 2007

Urban Infrastructure Real Estate Fund to raise $500 million | INRnews

Mumbai, India, March 16, 2007 - A Mauritius based fund with feeder funds in Jersey, the Urban Infrastructure Real Estate Fund (UIREF), is targeting to raise USD 500Mn for investment in the real estate sector in India.

GMR Infrastructure subsidiary begins work on two new runways in Delhi | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 16, 2007 - GMR Infrastructure Ltd hasannounced that Delhi International Airport (P) Ltd (DIAL), a subsidiary of the Company, in an effort to enhance passenger comfort and to ensure more efficient aircraft operations, Delhi International Airport Pvt Ltd (DIAL) is carrying out work involving two new taxiways U and V. This will facilitate faster runway clearance from Runway 10 side towards the international terminal. The Runway occupancy time will be reduced with increase in its capacity. Since, the holding time for aircraft awaiting clearance to land at Delhi Airport would reduce further; the passengers and airlines will be benefited.

Nineteen railway stations identified for making them world class | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 16, 2007 - Nineteen stations viz. Pune, Carnac Bunder (Mumbai), Howrah, Lucknow, Anand Vihar (Delhi), Bijwasan (Delhi), Amritsar, Chandigarh, New Delhi, Varanasi, Chennai, Thiruvanthpuram, Secunderabad, Ahmedabad, Patna, Bhubaneshwar, Mathura, bangalore & Bhopal have been selected to convert into world class stations.

March 14, 2007

Six laning of NH-4 between Pune and Bangalore

New Delhi, India, March 14, 2007 - The Government has approved undertaking six laning of 6500 km of National Highways comprising 5700 km of Golden Quadrilateral and 800 km of other sections having traffic more than 25000 PCU by December 2012 through Public Private Partnership (PPP) on a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis.

March 13, 2007

Urban Infrastructure Opportunities Fund invests Rs 1,102 crore in Indian real estate | INRnews

Mumbai, India, March 13, 2007 - The Urban Infrastructure Opportunities Fund (UIOF) promoted by Anand Jain has invested Rs.1,102 crore in various real estate projects in the country for development of total built-up space of 70.2 million square feet.

New Bangalore Airport to open on April 2 | INRnews

Bangalore, India, March 13, 2007 - The opening date of the new International Airport at Bangalore, as fixed by M/s. Bangalore International Ltd., (BIAL), is April 2, 2008. This information was given by Shri Praful Patel, Minister for Civil Aviation in the Parliament today.

March 09, 2007

Union Minister approves road improvement works in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 09, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved road improvement works in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Cement manufacturers agree to hold prices | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 09, 2007 - Cement manufacturers have agreed to hold the price line and not increase cement prices any further for one year with effect from today and to absorb all the additional costs themselves, following prolonged deliberations with the Commerce & Industry Minister, Shri Kamal Nath, here today with senior representatives of the cement industry including the President of the Cement Manufacturers Association in the context of the recent increase in prices of cement. They have also agreed that if any concession is given to them by way of excise duty and other statutory levies, they would pass on the benefit of it entirely to the consumers.

March 07, 2007

Six-laning of Delhi to Meerut highway approved | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 07, 2007 - Six laning of Delhi-Meerut section of National Highway (NH) has been approved. Preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) is in progress at present.

New river bridges to come up in Goa | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 07, 2007 - The Government has identified Maharashtra/Goa border to Karnataka/Goa border section of NH-17 for improvement under National Highway Development Project (NHDP) Phase IIIB.

Developing Colachel and Chennai Ports in Tamil Nadu | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 07, 2007 - A request has been received from Government of Tamil Nadu for development of Colachel Port as a Major Port. Preparation of a Techno-Economic Feasibility and Detailed Project Reports as well as Environmental Impact Assessment Studies for this project have been undertaken.

Increasing capacity of ports in India | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 07, 2007 - Measures for increasing the capacity in the Major Ports which are under the control of the Central Government are taken as part of an on-going process, keeping in view the demands of maritime trade, through implementation of development plans for the ports, improvement in productivity, etc. This information was given by the Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Shri T.R. Baalu in the Lok Sabha today.

March 06, 2007

Union Minister Approves Road Projects in Himachal Pradesh | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 06, 2007 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved a total amount of Rs. 1707.39 lakh for road improvement works in Himachal Pradesh.

March 02, 2007

Two new flyovers opened on Delhi - Gurgaon section of NH-8 | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 02, 2007 - In continuing efforts to provide comfort to commuters between Delhi and Gurgaon, Thiru. T.R. Baalu, Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways and Shri. B.S. Hooda, Chief Minister of Haryana opened to traffic the flyovers at IFFCO Crossing and South City junction on NH-8 in Gurgaon, Haryana today. These two flyovers on NH-8 complete the last leg of flyovers in Gurgaon section—with this the entire stretch between Mahipalpur to Rajeev Chowk is now open to traffic.

Linkages Between DTC Depots & Metros Necessary To Raise Its Occupancy | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 02, 2007 - Establish suitable transportation linkages between hubs of economic activities to Metro stations so as to enhance occupancy in Metros run by Delhi Metro Railway Corporation (DMRC), which currently is highly under utilized to the extent of 75%, advises the Associated Chambers of Commerce & Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).

March 01, 2007

Metro to provide high speedexpress link between New Delhi Railway Station and International Airport | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 01, 2007 - The Government has approved 'in principle' a proposal of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) Ltd. to provide a High Speed Express Link between New Delhi Railway Station to Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) for a length of 18.775 km. at a total estimated cost of Rs.3811 crore (including taxes) subject to certain conditions.

Projects for Commonwealth Games | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 01, 2007 - The process of seeking clearances from various agencies for the Commonwealth Games, 2010 related projects is an on-going process and any objections/clarifications raised by them are being suitably addressed by the implementation agencies concerned. For expediting the required clearances, an Empowered Committee has been set up under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary, GNCTD with representatives from all the concerned agencies/authorities to facilitate speedy clearances in respect of the games related projects, which has been meeting regularly.

25 projects cleared under JNNURM for Andhra Pradesh | INRnews

New Delhi, India, March 01, 2007 - According to the Minister of Urban Development, S. Jaipal Reddy, 59 proposals have been received from Andhra Pradesh for release of funds since the inception of the Jawaharlal Lal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission under the sub-mission, Urban Infrastructure and Governance.

February 28, 2007

Budget 2007-08 : Infrastructure continues to be a key focus area | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 28, 2007 - Continuing the focus on infrastructure building, the Union Finance Minister Shri P. Chidambaram has proposed enhancing of Budgetary support to some major projects in the Union Budget 2007-08.

Revolving fund of Rs 100 crore to enable infrastructure building | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 28, 2007 - In his Budget proposals in the Lok Sabha today, the Finance Minister Shri P. Chidambaram noted that the Public-Private Partnership model has enabled greater private sector participation in infrastructure building.

February 27, 2007

JNNURM success depends on comprehensive planning and effective monitoring | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 27, 2007 - Jawahar Lal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, JNNURM is a significant move to address the creaking urban infrastructure. The Economic Survey, which was tabled in Parliament today, says that comprehensive planning and effective monitoring are essential to take this scheme successfully to its logical conclusion. The Survey further says that outlook on urban infrastructure will depend critically on how fast the finances and functional efficiency of urban local bodies is improved.

February 23, 2007

Tidco moots new IT Park and Convention center in Taramani, Chennai | INRnews

Chennai, India, February 23, 2007 - The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO), envisages establishment of an IT/ITES SEZ on 25 acres of land (originally occupied by Film City) near Tidel Park on Chennai's IT Corridor on the Old Mahablipuram Road.

Delhi airport infrastructure investment drives up realty prices in vicinity | INRnews

Gurgaon, India, February 23, 2007 - The massive Rs.8,500 crore infrastructure investment in upgrading the Delhi International Airport is having a salutary effect on on real estate prices in the vicinity. Areas such as Gurgaon and Dwarka have seen a 10%-15% increase in real estate prices.

Cabinet approves Salim Group township and infrastructure venture | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 23, 2007 - The Union Cabinet has approved Indonesia-based Salim Group's proposal for a $500 million investment in development projects in West Bengal. The company is looking at developing integrated infrastructure including townships, housing, SEZ, and industrial parks.

February 22, 2007

Ganesh Housing signs MOU with Govt of Gujarat for Rs 2000 crore township development | INRnews

Ahmedabad, India, February 22, 2007 - Real estate developer Ganesh Housing Corporation Ltd has announced that the Company has signed a MOU with the Government of Gujarat for development of SMART CITY-Integrated Township at Village Godhavi & Garodia, Taluka Sanand District Ahmedabad on about 400 acres of land at an investment of Rs 2000 crore.

CII Infrastructure regulatory report calls for new architecture | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 22, 2007 - The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) today called for evolving a 'new regulatory architecture' for building India's infrastructure. In its meeting with the Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia' CII emphasised that a renewed focus on Infrastructure Regulation would both increase private sector investments in Indian infrastructure, and enable more efficient management of the infrastructure assets.

February 21, 2007

Large real estate projects to come up on the outskirts of Vadodara | INRnews

Vadodara, India, February 21, 2007 - The Vadodara Urban Development Authority (VUDA) has signed MoUs worth Rs.3,425 crore with various real estate development companies for projects such as setting up of housing colonies, IT parks, and commercial complexes around Vadodara.

February 20, 2007

Real estate major DLF to build Dankuni township in West Bengal | INRnews

Kolkata, India, February 20, 2007 - Real estate major DLF has entered into an agreement with the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) to build a new township in Dankuni, Hooghly district, West Bengal with an investment of Rs.33,000 crore. This would make the Dankuni township the largest public-private-partnership (PPP) project in the country.

February 19, 2007

Parliamentary committee discusses airport infrastructure in South India | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 19, 2007 - The meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee attached to the Ministry of Civil Aviation met at Cochin in Kerala today. It was chaired by Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Praful Patel. The meeting focused on discussions on airport infrastructure and air connectivity in Southern India.

February 17, 2007

Subhash Projects signs MOU with Gujarat Government | INRnews

Ahmedabad, India, February 17, 2007 - Subhash Projects & Marketing Ltd has announced that the Company has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Gujarat to participate in infrastructure projects in the state. The company plans to invest Rs.5,000 crore in the state.

February 15, 2007

India Infrastructure Financing Initiative to deploy $5 billion in projects | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 15, 2007 - Infrastructure Development Finance Company Limited ("IDFC"), Citigroup Inc. ("Citi"), India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited ("IIFCL") and Blackstone Group Holdings L.P. (together with its affiliates, "Blackstone") announced the launch of "The India Infrastructure Financing Initiative", a collaborative effort to deploy approximately US $ 5 billion in capital for infrastructure projects in India. The plan is to deploy about US$ 2 billion in equity capital and US$ 3 billion in long term debt financing with maturities exceeding ten years.

February 09, 2007

National Conclave to be held on Realty & Infrastructure Opportunities in 60 Indian cities | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 09, 2007 - ASSOCHAM with the support of Ministry of Urban Development is organizing a National Conclave on the theme “60 Indian Cities : In Depth View of Realty & Infrastructure Opportunities” on 13 & 14th February, 2007 in New Delhi.

February 08, 2007

1,000 acre Aerospace SEZ to come up in Karnataka | INRnews

Bangalore, India, February 8, 2007 - Karnataka Chief Minister, Mr H.D. Kumaraswamy, has announced that the Karnataka Government is looking to set up a 1,000 acre Aerospace SEZ in the State.

February 06, 2007

Mahipalpur and Udyog Vihar crossing flyovers on Delhi - Gurgaon highway opened to traffic | INRnews

New Delhi, India, February 06, 2007 - In ongoing efforts to provide comfort to commuters between Delhi and Gurgaon, Thiru T. R. Baalu, Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Smt Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister, Delhi and Sh. B. S. Hooda, Chief Minister, Haryana today ceremonially opened to traffic the flyovers at Mahipalpur in Delhi and Udyog Vihar Crossing of NH-8 in Gurgaon, Haryana. The Minister of State in the Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways, Shri K.H. Muniyappa was also present on the occasion.

Rs 3500 crore Satellite Township to come up at Tellapur near Hyderabad | INRnews

Hyderabad, February 6, 2007 - The Hyderabad Urban Development Authority (HUDA) has awarded a Rs.3,500 crore Satellite Township project at Tellapur near Hyderabad to a consortium comprising Nagarjuna Construction, ICICI Venture Funds and Tishman Speyer Properties.

Major real estate developers bid for 106 acre Bangalore biotech park project | INRnews

Bangalore, India, February 6, 2007 - The Karnataka government has succeeded in attracting interest from many large real estate developers for the 106 acre, Rs.350 crore biotech park project in Bangalore. The proposed "Helix" park located in Electronics City Phase 3 on the Hosur Road aims to attract biotech companies, including startups, by providing infrastructure such as office space and educational and research facilities within the vicinity.

January 31, 2007

MoU signed for $25 bln real estate development project in Andhra Pradesh | INRnews

Hyderabad, January 31, 2007 - A consortium comprising of real estate developers Jurong International from Singapore and Springfield Land of Australia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Andhra Pradesh government to develop an integrated science city on 65,000 acres of land between Odicheruvu and Ammadiguda in Anantpur district of Andhra Pradesh. The location is just 200km from Bangalore and 400km from Hyderabad.

Nagarjuna Construction consortium wins Rs 1200 crore port project in Andhra Pradesh | INRnews

Hyderabad, India, January, 31 2007 - Nagarjuna Construction Company Ltd has announced that a consortium comprising of the Company, Maytas Infra. Pvt Ltd., and SREI Infrastructure Finance Ltd has been awarded a project relating to development and operation of an all weather deep water port at Machilipataam, Andhra Pradesh to be developed on BOOT basis valued at Rs 1200 crores. The Board of Directors has also approved raising US$180 million in funding to drive its expansion plans.

January 30, 2007

Navi Mumbai international airport project drives up land prices | INRnews

Mumbai, January 30, 2007 - The proposed international airport project in Navi Mumbai is driving up land prices in areas such as New Panvel, Kalamboli and Kharghar. The City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra (CIDCO) has recently sold plots in the area for significantly higher amounts than recent market prices.

Navi Mumbai international airport project drives up land prices | INRnews

Mumbai, January 30, 2007 - The proposed international airport project in Navi Mumbai is driving up land prices in areas such as New Panvel, Kalamboli and Kharghar. The City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra (CIDCO) has recently sold plots in the area for significantly higher amounts than recent market prices.

January 03, 2007

Indian real estate boom of 2006 to further roll in 2007 | INRnews

New Delhi, January 03, 2006 - The real estate boom of 2006 is set to multiply itself in 2007 to get India a foreign capital of over Rs. 8000 crore with leading international investors establishing their presence in its richly rewarding real estate development, providing new employment opportunities for over 2 lakh skilled and unskilled workforce, according to estimates made by The  Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM).

Government forms company for land acquisition in West Bengal | INRnews

Kolkata, January 03, 2006 - The West Bengal government has floated a company 'West Bengal Land Holdings' to acquire acres of land required for industrial projects and SEZs in the state.

January 01, 2007

Assocham to organise national realty and infrastructure conclave | INRnews

New Delhi, December 31, 2006 - The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) with the support of Ministry of Urban Development is organizing a National Conclave on the theme “60 Indian Cities : In Depth View of Realty & Infrastructure Opportunities” on 13 & 14th February, 2007 in New Delhi.

December 30, 2006

Jaipur to get new international terminal | INRnews

Jaipur, December 29, 2006 - The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has taken up construction of a New International Terminal Building to cater to 250 arriving & 250 departing passengers at a total cost of Rs. 95 crore here. The foundation stone was laid by Shri Praful Patel, Minister of State for Civil Aviation at a well attended function at Jaipur Airport. Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Smt. Vasundhara Raje was the Chief Guest.

December 28, 2006

Kochi airport to get $790 million expansion | INRnews

Kochi, December 28, 2006 - The Cochin International Airport, the first airport in the country built under public-private partnership, will be expanded with an investment of Rs.35 billion ($790 million).

HCC bags Rs.275 crore BOT (Annuity) project of NHAI under North-South Corridor | INRnews

Mumbai, December 28, 2006 - Hindustan Construction Company has bagged the prestigious 30 Km highway development contract of National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) on NH-7 in Andhra Pradesh under North-South Corridor (NHDP Phase II) on BOT (Annuity) basis.

December 21, 2006

Govt approves new international airport terminal for Ahmedabad | INRnews

New Delhi, December 21, 2006 - The Government today has approved the construction of a New International Terminal Building along with city and air side development at a Ahmedabad Airport at an estimated cost of Rs. 290.92 crore (Phase I: Rs. 195.92 crore and Phase II Rs. 95.00 crore). The total project cost of Rs. 290.92 crore includes Foreign Exchange in INR Rs. 27.35 crore in Phase I at 2005-06 prices, which would work out to Rs. 313.22 crore after considering inflation.

December 12, 2006

Development of Coimbatore, Madurai and Trichy airports | INRnews

New Delhi, December 12, 2006 - The Government has plans for the development of the Coimbatore, Madurai and Trichy Airports in Tamil Nadu. This information was given by Shri Praful Patel, Minister for Civil Aviation in the Parliament today.

New site identified for civilian airport in Pune | INRnews

New Delhi, December 12, 2006 - A new site at Rajguru Nagar, six km. north of Chakan in Pune has been identified as the possible site for a civilian airport in Pune. This information was given by Shri Praful Patel, Minister for Civil Aviation in the Parliament today.

December 05, 2006

Era Constructions awarded highway project in Madhya Pradesh | INRnews

Mumbai, December 05, 2006 - Era Constructions India Ltd has announced that the Company has been awarded contract by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for design, construction, development, finance, operation and maintenance of new 4 lane Gwalior Bypass of the length 42.033 Km from Km103 on NH-3 to Km 16 on NH-75 in the state of Madhya Pradesh on BOT Annuity Basis (the 'project') in consortium with other members.

December 04, 2006

IVRCL Infrastructures secures orders worth Rs 608 Crores | INRnews

Mumbai, December 04, 2006 - IVRCL Infrastructures & Projects Ltd has announced that the Company has bagged orders of the value of Rs 608.10 Crores consisting of Power Distribution Projects of the value of Rs 469.46 Crores and Water Distribution Network Projects in different taluks of Jamnagar District in the state of Gujarat of the value of Rs 138.64 Crores detailed hereunder.

December 02, 2006

Several infrastructure projects in Manipur announced | INRnews

Imphal, December 02, 2006 - During his visit to Manipur and in the preceding weeks, the Prime Minister held intensive consultations with the Chief Minister on the projects that could be taken up for the development of the state.

December 01, 2006

Karrick buys large stake in Indiabulls Infrastructure | INRnews

Mumbai, December 01, 2006 - Indiabulls Financial Services Ltd has announced that Karrick Ltd and FIM Holding B Ltd will buy 13.33% equity in Indiabulls Infrastructure Development Ltd for a total consideration of Rs 447 crores. Karrick is an investment firm owned by steel baron Lakshmi Mittal.

IVRCL Infrastructures bags Rs 388 crores orders on Telugu Ganga project | INRnews

Mumbai, December 01, 2006 - IVRCL Infrastructures & Projects Ltd has announced that the Company has bagged irrigation related works of Telugu Ganga Project, Nandyal Circle, awarded by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, Irrigation Department of the value of Rs 388.16 Crores detailed hereunder, to be executed along with its joint venture partners.

November 30, 2006

Rail line connecting Hazira port proposed | INRnews

New Delhi, November 30, 2006 : Final Location Survey (FLS) of the project was completed and bankability under Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) structure established with viability gap funding. The project is yet to be processed for sanction, as there are no definite plans for development of container port at Hazira.

PBA Infrastructure secures new projects | INRnews

Mumbai, November 30, 2006 - PBA Infrastructure Ltd has been awarded the World Bank project "Providing Four laning to Aurangabad — Jalna Road (MSH-6) KM 10/400 TO 60/200 Beed Byepass km 292/500 to 305/600 and Zalta Byepass Km 0/00 to km 2/850".

November 23, 2006

India Infrastructure growth rate jumps to 6.7% in 3Q06 | INRnews

Bangalore, November 23, 2006 : The growth rate of the infrastructure sector in India jumped to 6.7% in 3Q06 compared with a growth rate of 6.1% in the corresponding period last year.

November 19, 2006

Delhi set to benefit from Commonwealth Games | INRnews

New Delhi, November 19, 2006 : Delhi is becoming a hot destination for hotels - and the major infrastructural development in the city in preparation for the 2010 Commonwealth Games is the reason why.

November 12, 2006

Dadri Power project to be established at all cost | INRnews

Lucknow, November 12, 2006 - In a significant move to make Uttar Pradesh self-sufficient in power in three years, the State Government today entered into an agreement with the private sector for purchasing power. With co-operation from the private sector three units with installed capacity of 1,930 mw would start generation by the year 2010 to make power available to consumers at cheep rates.

November 10, 2006

Union Minister approves road improvement works in Tamil Nadu| INRnews

New Delhi, November 10, 2006 - The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved Road Improvement Works from km 27/00 to km 44/00 and construction of paved shoulders from km 62/0 to km 64/00 and km 69/0 to 70/4 at Vathalagundu-Periakulam-Theni in Tamil Nadu at a total cost of Rs. 605.09 lakh.

November 09, 2006

CCEA approves Rs.392 crore funding for rail-cum-road bridge in Bihar | INRnews

New Delhi, November 09, 2006 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for providing project specific funds to the tune of Rs.392 crore towards the road share of Munger Rail Cum Road Bridge project in the 11th Plan provisions of Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways and funds are to be released directly by Planning Commission to the Ministry of Railways as per the yearly requirement.

CCEA approves moves to expedite implementation of National Highways Project | INRnews

New Delhi, November 09, 2006 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for exemption of Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC) procedures for selected 12 sub-projects, for the development of four/six laning of National Highways under National Highways Development Project (NHDP) Phase II and IIIA on Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis. Exemption of 12 Sub-Projects of NHDP-II & IIIA from the PPPAC procedures would expedite the implementation of these sub projects.

November 02, 2006

PPPAC approves ten highway projects with investment of Rs. 5,000 crore | INRnews

New Delhi, November 02, 2006 - The Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC) met on November 1, 2006 and approved nine highway projects with investment of Rs.4439 crore under the National Highway Development Programme (NHDP) III A received from National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). With this, the PPPAC has already approved the following 10 highway projects of NHAI involving a total investment of more than Rs. 5,000 crore and also a port sector project.

NHAI receives Rs.16 crore for Bangalore elevated highway project| INRnews

New Delhi, November 02, 2006 -The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) received a cheque of Rs. 16 crores here today towards Negative Grant for the elevated highway project on Bangalore-Hosur Section of NH – 7.

HPCL to get 1,500 acres of land in Vizag SEZ | INRnews

Hyderabad, November 2, 2006 : Oil major, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) will be allotted 1,500 acres in the Special Economic Zone at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. HPCL is to set up a refinery, aromatic plant and naphtha cracker unit at an investment of Rs 35,000 crore on this site. This was decided at a meeting held on Visakhapatnam Special Economic Zone, chaired by Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy.

Cabinet approves construction of 1000-km of expressways at a cost of Rs 16680 crore | INRnews

New Delhi, November 02, 2006 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) today gave its approval for undertaking construction of 1000 km of expressways under Phase VI with full access control and on new alignments along the routes at a cost of Rs.16,680 crore (Rs.9,000 crore from private sector and the balance amount of Rs.7,680 crore as viability gap funding, cost of land acquisition, utility shifting, consultancy etc. to be met by the Government).

November 01, 2006

Prime Minister lays foundation stone for new airport teminal in Thiruvananthapuram | INRnews

Thiruvananthapuram, November 1, 2006 : Indian Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has laid the foundation stone for the new Airport Terminal at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala today. The Government has decided to improve Kerala's airport infrastructure keeping in mind the large-scale migration of people from Kerala as well the enormous tourism potential potential in the state. In addition, Dr. Singh also indicated that The Azhikkal Port has been included in the National Maritime Development programme and that the government would provide all possible assistance for the development of Vizhinjam harbour.

Union Minister calls for enhanced efficiency in major ports | INRnews

New Delhi, November 1, 2006 :The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has called for enhanced efforts for increasing the efficiency of Major Ports. In a Meeting held here today to review the performance of the Major Ports with regard to the implementation of Plan Projects and efficiency indicators, the Minister said that various options should be examined for augmenting the dredging capacity in the country.

October 27, 2006

CCEA approves Rs 207 crore project to upgrade Amritsar - Wagah highway | INRnews

New Delhi, October 27, 2006 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for the Four laning of Amritsar-Wagah section (length 35 km) of NH-1 on BOT mode at an estimated cost of Rs.207 crore including cost of land acquisition, utility shifting, rehabilitation and resettlement, consultancy etc.

October 18, 2006

Delhi to Gurgaon metro land acquisition to begin

October 18, 2006 : The Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA) is to put efforts to accelerate land acquisition for the Delhi-Gurgaon Metro stretch. The land acquisition will start under the emergency clause according to HUDA administrator SP Gupta.

DLF to invest $1.7 Billion in Madhya Pradesh real estate and infrastructure

Bhopal, October 18, 2006 : Real estate giant DLF plans to invest $1.7 billion over the next five years in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh on real estate and infrastructure projects. Planned projects include housing, SEZs, IT Parks, hotels and convention centres in Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore and Jabalpur.

October 15, 2006

Ahmedabad - Mumbai in five hours by road | INRNews

Ahmedabad, October 15, 2006 : If everything goes well with the Union Government plan, within three years one will be able to reach Mumbai from Ahmedabad within five hours by road. This was indicated by Minister of State for Shipping Road Transport and Highways, K.H. Muniyappa.

October 13, 2006

India needs US$ 40 Bln for infrastructure financing over the next 5 years

New Delhi, October 13, 2006:  The Infrastructure Committee of The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) has projected infrastructure financing requirement of foreign equity capital to the extent of over US$ 40 billion in the next five years and has suggested that the role of long-term financial institutions such as insurance companies, provident and pension funds and NBFCs be enhanced for financing infrastructure projects.

October 10, 2006

Delhi New Master Plan to allow housing on 27,000 hectares of land

New Delhi, October 10, 2006:  The Master Plan for Delhi, to be announced by December 2006 will have provisions to permit putting up of dwelling units on 27,000 hectare agricultural land that Delhi has in its possession and also provide for easier and relaxed floor area ratio norms for city’s vertical development with necessary no objection certificate from water and power authorities.

These observations were made by the State Minister for Urban Development Mr Ajay Maken while releasing a report "ASSOCHAM Study on Housing For All".

October 09, 2006

Road improvement works in Assam approved

New Delhi, October 09, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T. R. Baalu has approved in-principle road improvement works in Assam to the tune of Rs.111.81 crore. The funds will be used to strengthen and Widen several NH stretches in the State of Assam under Phase ‘A’ of Special Accelerated Road Development Programme – North East (SARDP-NE).

October 08, 2006

DLF to invest $2.1 Billion in Tamil Nadu real estate and infrastructure

Chennai, October 8, 2006 : Real estate giant DLF plans to invest $2.1 billion in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu on real estate and infrastructure projects. The investment would go towards development of Special Economic Zones, integrated townships, hotels and convention centres.

October 07, 2006

Government to promote PPP Infrastructure projects with viability gap funding

New Delhi, October 7, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways Thiru T.R. Baalu has said that Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is a paradigm shift in Government’s approach to the implementation of the National Highway Development Programme (NHDP). He was speaking at the Conference on ‘Building Infrastructure: Challenges and Opportunities’, organized by the Planning Commission here today.

October 05, 2006

Trinity Capital PLC Acquires strategic stake in ITNL

October 5, 2006 : Trinity Capital PLC announced that it has acquired a 2.5% shareholding for £4.8 million in IL&FS Transportation & Networks Limited (“ITNL”) which is 90% owned by Infrastructure Leasing and Finance Services Limited, (“IL&FS”) one of India's leading financial institutions.

Cabinet approves Rs 41,210 crore project to upgrade National Highways | INRnews

New Delhi, October 05, 2006 - The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for undertaking six laning of 6500 km of National Highways comprising 5700 km of Golden Quadrilateral and balance 800 km of other sections of National Highways under NHDP V at a cost of Rs.41,210 crore (Rs.35,692 crore from private sector and the balance amount of Rs.5,518 crore as viability gap, cost of land acquisition, utility shifting, consultancy etc to be met by Government).

September 27, 2006

Modi invites Japanese companies to set up SEZ in Gujarat | INRnews

Ahmedabad, September 27, 2006 : Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi today invited Japanese investors and industrialists to set up exclusive Special Economic Zones on the 1600 km long coastline of the State.

Vadodara-Surat highway to be finished in a month | INRnews

Ahmedabad, September 27, 2006 : The repair work on the NH 8 between Vadodara and Surat, damaged during the recent floods, would be completed within a month at a cost of over Rs 6 crore, said K H Muniyappa, Union Minister of State for Shipping, Road Transport and Highways here on Monday.

September 22, 2006

Uniform road tax structure required in India

New Delhi, September 22, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways Thiru T.R. Baalu has said that the National Road Safety Council and the Transport Development Council should deliberate upon the need to have a uniform road tax structure in the country. He said that a mechanism could be devised under the Union Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways where policy makers of the State Transport Departments could work together to bring in uniform tax structure. Thiru Baalu was addressing the 9th National Road Safety Council and the 31st Transport Development Council meetings in Shimla today.

GoI to support infrastructure development in Tripura and Nagaland

Agartala, September 22, 2006: States in the northeast including Tripura and Nagaland have sought Central support for development of infrastructure in their states.  In response, New Delhi has come up with a grant of Rs.2600 crore for the development of Agartala and Kohima cities.  The Tripura and Nagaland governments have been asked to submit a detailed project report for review by the Urban Development Ministry. Tripura alone is to get a grant of Rs.1600 crore out of the total grant from GOI.

Coming soon: a disaster management centre in Gujarat | INRnews

Ahmedabad, September 22, 2006 : The Gujarat Government has cleared a proposal to set up a Disaster Response Force centre in the State under the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) project, and also agreed to allot about 100 acres of land sought by the NDMA for this purpose.

September 21, 2006

Modernisation of Visakhapatnam Airport

Vizag, September 21, 2006: According to a press release from Mr. N. Janardhana Reddy, Lok Sabha MP from Vizag, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is taking up construction of a new integrated terminal building for the Vizag airport as part of the airports modernization plan.  This project, expected to cost Rs.92 crores will be launched on the 26th September 2006 with the laying of a foundation stone.  This new terminal will be centrally airconditioned and will have parking facility for 600 cars.

Cabinet approves transfer of Defence land for road projects in Delhi

New Delhi, September 21, 2006 :  The Union Cabinet today gave its approval to proposals for transfer of Defence land in Delhi to the Government of NCT of Delhi for various road projects. The projects when completed will help ease traffic congestion in Delhi city.

Cabinet approves transfer of land to railways for construction of Salem-Yeshwantpur bye-pass

New Delhi, September 21, 2006 :   The Union Cabinet today approved the transfer of Air Force land to the Railways for construction of the Salem-Yeshwantpur bye-pass. The project will lead to faster clearance of train services on the line.

Govt to look at permitting foreign investors to tap the capital market pre-IPO in Indian real estate sector

Mumbai: 21st September, 2006: Inaugurating the FICCI - International Real Estate Summit 2006 , the Union Minister for Urban Development, Mr. S Jaipal Reddy highlighted the importance of the unique Jawahar Lal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission in the backdrop of an inevitable urbanization that is taking place. He said, “Growth rates in the urban sector will keep shooting up for many years, we expect 40% of people in India to move to urban India by 2025.”

September 19, 2006

Road infrastructure should keep pace with auto industry growth - Minister

New Delhi, September 19, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has said that Roads and automobiles are the two faces of the same coin and if one does not do well, then the other will definitely not be able to perform. Stating that simultaneous gray revolution of high class roads and metal revolution of automobile should go hand in hand, he said that his Ministry is trying to ensure that as the people of the nation enjoy the luxury of newer and advanced models of vehicles at their service, the road infrastructure should also keep pace with the same. He was inaugurating the Conference on “Auto Retail: Framework for Growth” organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) in association with the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA).

September 15, 2006

Road improvement works sanctioned in 6 states

New Delhi, September 15, 2006 :  The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved road improvement works in Gujarat, Chattisgarh, West Bengal, Punjab, Harayana and Maharashtra.

September 14, 2006

Road improvement works in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry sanctioned

New Delhi, September 14, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has approved road improvement works in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry.

September 13, 2006

Rail-Road connectivity to Ennore Port to be expedited

New Delhi, September 13, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu has said that the Officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Ennore Port should coordinate their efforts with the Railway Officials to expedite the pending work on the Rail-Road connectivity project. He was addressing a review meeting on Rail-Road connectivity to Ennore Port Limited, here today.

Gujarat to offer port facility to land-locked States | INRnews

Indore, September 13, 2006 : In order to fuel the country's economic growth, Gujarat has decided to offer exclusive port facility to land-locked states to provide them a gateway for exports. "Gujarat has a coastline of 1600 km and we have framed a policy to offer a part of it to the landlocked States where they can construct a port for exporting their goods exclusively," Chief Minister Narendra Modi said here yesterday at the Ahilyabai national award function.

September 12, 2006

Bangalore to get new flyovers

Mayor Mumtaz Begum has said that the Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BMP) is to build flyovers at Coles Park and Shivajinagar to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. She said that funding was not an issue.

September 09, 2006

Bangalore real estate - Bidadi Township to be ready in three years

INRnews had reported on Aug 22nd about the Bangalore township projects under development by the Bangalore Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA). Work on the Bidadi township project appears to be gaining momentum. The township is planned on 9.685 acres of land and is located 39km from Bangalore city and 4 km from Bidadi on the Bangalore-Mysore highway.

September 07, 2006

New access-control stretch for Tumkur Road in Bangalore

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is planning an access-controlled section on Tumkur road in Bangalore to reduce traffic congestions and minimise accidents.

New bridge in Chandigarh to alleviate commuter woes

Work has begun on a new 3-lane bridge adjoining the old Ghaggar bridge on NH21 that connects Chandigarh with Delhi, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. Pile testing of the bridge has started and the bridge is expected to be completed in less than two years.

India Infrastructure - Patna bridge project approved

The Union Government has approved a Rs.1,389 crore project for enlarging an existing bridge over the the river Ganga near Patna to a railway & road bridge. This is one of the largest bridge projects under the National Rail Vikas Yojna. The bridge is expected to be completed within a period of five years.

September 04, 2006

Tamil Nadu govt to build satellite town on 30,000 acres near Chennai

The Tamil Nadu govt is planning to acquire 30,000 acres of land for a satellite township in the outskirts of Chennai. According to the Chief Minister, Mr. Karunanidhi, land for the town has already been identified and will be purchased at the prevailing market rate. The sprawling estate is located near Chennai, south of the Vandalur-Kelambakkam road. Currently only 13,000 families inhabit the proposed site area.

September 03, 2006

Indian Maritime University to be set-up at Chemmacherry near Chennai

Chennai, September 3, 2006 : The Central Government proposes to set up the Indian Maritime University at Chemmacherry, near Chennai. This was announced by the Union Minister for Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T.R. Baalu while inaugurating the Bharat Nirman Public Information Campaign organized by the Press Information Bureau at Thuraipakkam, Kanchipuram District in Tamil Nadu today.

September 02, 2006

Gujarat eyes Rs 150,000 crore infrastructure investment | INRnews

Ahmedabad, September 02, 2006 : The Gujarat government has embarked on an ambitious investment drive identifying 12 sectors for fresh investments to the tune of Rs 150,000 crore. The plans are a part of the Vibrant Gujarat 2007 programme.

September 01, 2006

Bangalore - Land acquisition for new airport expressway to begin soon

The process of acquiring around 300 acres of land for the proposed 4-lane airport link expressway will soon be underway. The acquisition cost is estimated at Rs.300 to Rs.400 crores.

August 26, 2006

Government of Maharashtra and Bharat Forge join hands to set up a multi-product SEZ in Pune District

Project to generate 120,000 new jobs.

Bharat Forge Ltd. (BFL), India’s largest manufacturer and exporter of automotive components today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra to jointly develop a multi-product Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Khed Taluka of Pune District.

Four Laning of National Highways

Minister of State for Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Shri K.H. Muniyappa has in a written reply in the Lok Sabha indicated that 4-laning has been completed on a total of 2,735 km of national highways of a total of 7,670 km planned in six states.

August 25, 2006

Busiest highway in India to turn into modern, 6-lane motorway

National Highway No.8, connecting Vadodara and Surat is to become a 6-lane highway, in a project starting January 2007. The stretch famous as much for its potholes as for its dense traffic, will mark its rebirth with close circuit TV cameras, emergency communication systems, weather stations and rest areas. The new highway covering a distance of 148 kms will be complete in 30 months.

August 24, 2006

Kakinada to Pondicherry stretch of canals proposed as National Waterway

New Delhi, August 24, 2006 : The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for introduction a Bill in the Parliament for declaration of Kakinada-Pondicherry Stretch of canals consisting of Kakinada canal, Eluru canal, Commamur canal, Buckingham canal and Kaluvelly tank along with Bhadrachalam –Rajahmundry stretch of River Godavari and Wazirabad- Vijayawada streth of River Krishna in the States of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and Union Territory of Pondicherry as a National Waterway. The Bill will be titled “the National Waterway (Kakinada-Pondicherry Stretch of Canals and the Kaluvelly Tank, Bhadrachalam-Rajahmundry Stretch of River Godavari and Wazirabad-Vijaywada Stretch of River Krishna) Bill, 2006”.

Bangalore to get a new expressway to connect to the Devanahalli international airport

The Karnataka State Government and BMRDA are to fund a new 30-km expressway between the upcoming airport at Devanahalli and the city. The Rs. 350 crore project will kick-off in earnest in January and the project will complete in three years.

August 22, 2006

Technical clearance obtained for airport in Navi Mumbai

Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel has told the Rajya Sabha that the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has recently communicated to the government that it was technically feasible to set up a new airport in Navi Mumbai.

ONGC plans massive investment in Mangalore SEZ

Natural resources giant ONGC is planning a massive investment of Rs. 10,000 crore in the recently approved Mangalore multi-product SEZ that is to come up in 1,320 hectares of land. ONGC is the main promoter of this SEZ.

Bangalore township projects moving slowly

With a view to decongesting Bangalore city, the BMRDA had announced three months ago a project to develop five integrated townships on the outskirts of Bangalore. The townships at Bidadi, Ramanagar, Sathanur, Solur and Nandagudi were to come up on 60,000 acres of land at a cost of over Rs. 20,000 crore.

August 21, 2006

Commerce department seeks more than 150 SEZs

North Block disagrees, sees SEZs as tax havens

While the commerce ministry claims that 150 SEZs have been approved and a cap had been fixed on fresh approvals, revenue department officials distinguished between final approvals and "in-principle" nods. According to them, only 30-odd projects have got final notification. Thereby, it may be assumed, leaving space for further approvals especially if many SEZ proposals fall by the wayside.

August 18, 2006

Sterling Biotech to build multi-product SEZ in Gujarat

A multi-product SEZ on 3,380 hectares of land in Jambusar, Gujarat has been proposed by Sterling Biotech at an investment of Rs. 1,600 crore. The SEZ will house priority sector industries such as chemicals and petrochemicals,metals, and steel.

The proposed SEZ is expected to provide jobs to 200,000 people and to achieve exports of Rs. 3,000 crore in the starting 4 years.

August 17, 2006

85 km of elevated corridors for Delhi

The Public Works Department (PWD) is planning to set up seven elevated corridors in Delhi to ease congestion on the Ring Road. All the corridors put together are expected to have a length of almost 85 km.

August 10, 2006

Board of Approvals approves 45 SEZ projects in India

The Board of Approval of Special Economic Zones has approved 45 special economic zone (SEZ) initiatives in a meeting earlier this week, taking the total number of approvals up to 150. Another 100 proposals are pending and 80 have been deferred.

August 07, 2006

Pune transportation move to LNG proving painful

Pune needs more LNG filling stations. 15,000 vehicles that are today running on gas have only five filling stations to meet their refilling needs. The result is enormous queues, frayed tempers and diminishing enthusiasm for going green. Fingers point to government delays in approval of new filling stations with red tape being longer than the queues. Also the requirement of stations to have a minimum space of 10,000 sq.ft is proving difficult to achieve given the acute shortage of available real estate within the city centre. The local govt. has to do more and quickly if Pune is to redeem itself as an erstwhile green lung.

August 06, 2006

A 2,500 acre SEZ and expansion plans for ports in Chennai

The public sector Ennore Port Ltd. (ELT), Tidco and Sipcot are to jointly set up a 2,500 acre SEZ in North Chennai. The TN govt has been approached for approval and waiver of Sales Tax for enterprises located in the zone.

169 SEZ proposals come up for approval on August 8

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in various segments such as multi-product, information technology, biotechnology and frontier areas of technology adding up to 169 proposals in all will be examined by the Board of Approval. The Board is chaired by the Special Secretary in the Department of Commerce, Mr Gopal K. Pillai.

Chennai Metro Rail Project may be partly funded by Central Govt

Union Minister Mr. Jaipal Reddy said the central govt. could provide up to 20% of the cost of an infrastructure project as viability gap funding. A Chennai Metro Rail project is being proposed by the Tamil Nadu government. Metro rail projects are already coming up in Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Hyderabad.

Infrastructure Management and Property Development Ventures for Madhucon

Hyderabad-based Madhucon has big plans for the future. Apart from plans to develop 1,000 km of toll roads in two years, where the company will manage as well build the roads, Madhucon will enter the lucrative market of developing and maintaining existing highways.

August 05, 2006

AP Govt. to come out with policy on land acquisition soon

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, announced that the state Govt. would soon have a policy to streamline land acquisition for development of projects. Earlier, the govt. experienced difficulties in acquiring land for infrastructure projects with an exponential rise in land prices being a major hurdle.

Subash Projects and Marketing Limited to develop port at Pondicherry

New Delhi-based Subash Projects and Marketing Ltd has been awarded a 30-year lease of the Pondicherry port under the BOT scheme (build, operate and transfer). The investment required for port development will be borne entirely by the company. An annual payment of 2.6% of the revenue earned will be made to the govt. This is expected to grow from a minimum of Rs.4 crores to Rs. 56 crores in due time. However, expansion and development work will be taken up only after the verdict on a writ petition concerning expansion of the port is given by the Madras High Court.

New airport in Navi Mumbai

The government is likely to initiate construction of a new airport to meet Mumbai's growing traffic demands. While the exact location has not yet been determined, it is likely to be in Navi Mumbai, close to the SEZs under development there.

Rs.736 crore Noida-Delhi metro on its way

The foundation stone for the 7.1 km metro link from New Ashok Nagar to Noida City Centre was laid at the City Centre in Sector 32 this week. Work has also begun on the Indraprastha-New Ashok Nagar link (Phase II) already. As of today, the total project cost is Rs.736 crores. The Noida Authority will pay Rs.520 towards construction costs with Rs.91 crores coming from the Central government.

August 03, 2006

Delhi to spend $5.75 Billion on infrastructure for the Commonwealth games

India's capital, New Delhi, will see a boom in infrastructure investment leading up to the Commonwealth games in 2010.  According to A.K. Walia, the Delhi Urban Development and Finance Minister, Rs. 26,808 crore ($5.75 Billion) will be spent on infrastructure including 25 flyovers, overbridges, tunnels, parking lots, rail transit system and housing facilities.

August 02, 2006

New ring roads for Bangalore

The Bangalore Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA) plans to develop a Satellite Town Ring Road, an Intermediate Ring Road and Radial Roads connecting the two, comprising over 734 km of roads in the city.

Simplex Somdatt in running for elevated expressway project

Simplex Somdatt has quoted the lowest amount, Rs. 439 crore, for the Mehdipatnam to international airport elevated expressway project in Hyderabad. The bid was 2.5% lower than HUDA's estimated construction value and lower than the other bidders - Gamon India, IJM Corporation, Malaysia, Italian Thai Development, Bangkok, Navyug Engineering, and Punj Loyd. Simplex Somdatt is likely to be awarded a letter of acceptance by Aug 10.

August 01, 2006

Indian Railways looks at its large land bank for real estate development

The Indian Railways is looking to exploit its large land bank for commercial development and as a source of new revenues. The Railways has 43,000 hectares of land available for development, estimated to be one tenth of the total land available with the Railways.

West Bengal government inks infrastructure deal with Salim group led consortium

The West Bengal government has signed an agreement with a Salim group led consortium for setting up mega infrastructure projects in the state. The agreement was signed between the state government, WBIDC, and the New Kolkata International Development Pvt Ltd - a SPV promoted by Indonesian Salim group together with the Universal Success group and Unitech.

Goa's mining sector to build bridge in North Goa

The Goa Infrastructure Development Corporation Pvt. Ltd. (GIDC), a company floated by Goa's mining industry, is to develop a four-lane bridge in Usgao-Pale area of north Goa at a cost of Rs. 20 crore. The new bridge would help mines in South Goa to transport their ore speedily as compared to the situation now where an existing single lane bridge is creating traffic bottlenecks. Work on the bridge is expected to start in October.

Nabard sanctions Rs 138 crore for rural infrastructure projects in Kerala

The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has sanctioned Rs 138 crore for implementing 68 rural road projects with a length of 435km across Kerala. The road projects, including 25 bridges, will be executed in the districts of Alapuzha, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kannur, Kasargod, Kozhikode, Kottayam, Malappuram, Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram and Wayanad.

Bidders pre-qualified for Mumbai trans harbour link project

Three consortiums have pre-qualified for the Mumbai trans harbour link project and the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) will now invite RFPs from them. The Rs. 4,000 crore project is for the construction of a 22 kilometre, six-lane over the sea bridge from near Sewree railway station to join NH-4B at Chirle.

Real estate major Unitech in massive land deal

Real estate major Unitech is set to announce India's largest real estate deal at a sticker price of well above Rs. 2,000 crore. The land deal is said to surpass earlier mega deals including Unitech's Rs. 1,568 crore Noida Expressway deal, Reliance Industries Rs, 1,100 crore Bandra-Kurla deal and DLFs Rs. 702 crore deal for NTC mill land.

Navi Mumbai SEZ to house international financial services hub

An integrated financial services hub, modeled on Hong Kong and Dubai, is being planned within the Navi Mumbai SEZ promoted by Mukesh Ambani of Reliance Industries and others. The facility will boast infrastructure facilities on par with international standards including a trading exchange, infrastructure, high speed telecom facilities, security, and office infrastructure.

July 31, 2006

Biotech Park to be built in Kharagpur, West Bengal

The West Bengal government is planning to set up a biotech part on 1,200 acres of land in Kharagpur in partnership with IIT Kharagpur. Land for the project has already been identified and acquisition is to start.

IIT has submitted a project report to WBIDC, the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation, and plans include a nano technology unity, a bio-informatics unit, an advanced level IT unit and a township.

July 29, 2006

35 non-metro airports by 2009

The central government plans to develop 35 non-metro airports by 2009 at a cost of Rs 100 billion according to Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel. 35 other airports are slated for upgradation work. Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi and Mubai are amongst those that have started the upgradation process and Kolkata and Chennai are next. All work would be undertaken by the Airports Authority of India.

Goa allots land for pharma and biotech parks, and SEZ

The Goa Assembly was informed by Industries Minister Luizinho Faleiro that the Goa Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) has allotted more than 11.8 million square metres of land for the development of a pharma park/Special Economic Zone at Keri and other biotech parks in the State.

Phase V of the National Highways Development on track

Minister of State for Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, K H Muniyappa told the Rajya Sabha that Phase V of the Highways project that envisages a total of 6,500 km to be widened to six lanes is progressing on track. The estimated cost of this project is Rs. 42,000 crore. The project is being developed on the Private-Public Partnership model.

July 28, 2006

Government clears FDI proposals for real estate and infrastructure

The Government has approved Singapore-based AAPC Hotels Management Pvt Ltd proposal for building a hotel at an investment of Rs 150 crores. AAPC hotels has formed a joint venture "Express Call Pvt Ltd" for this project.

Separately, the proposal of ILM Trichy (Mauritius) Ltd to fund the Trichy Tollway road project in Hyderabad at an investment of Rs 94 crores was also cleared based on the recommendations of the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB).

HDFC to raise $720 mn overseas for realty fund

HDFC plans to raise $720 million internationally for a new real estate fund. Proceeds raised from international investors - both individual and institutional - will be deployed in projects in India like SEZs, industrial parks, hotels, and residential/commercial property.

Ramky Infrastructure to raise capital for infrastructure projects & industrial parks

Hyderabad based Ramky Infrastructure Ltd, is planning to raise Rs 300 crore from the capital market to help finance its investments in public-private infrastructure projects in India, including roads and industrial parks. The company is bidding for the Rs.500 crore road project coming up in Andhra Pradesh further to its success in securing similar road projects in other parts of the country. The company with a turnover of Rs. 360 crore is likely to go public by Feb 2007.

July 27, 2006

Kakatiya Urban Development Authority to begin work on four major projects

The Kakatiya Urban Development Authority (KUDA) proposes to construct a commercial centre, hotel, multiplex and office complex on 11.24 acres of land in Balasamudram. KUDA plans to buy 135 acres of land from from the National Textile Corporation (NTC) and sell it as plotted land. Proceeds from this venture are to be invested in a four lane outer ring road to be built at a cost of Rs. 100 crore.

July 23, 2006

HDFC Chairman Parekh calls for housing issues to be dealt with effectively & efficiently

HDFC Chairman Deepak Parekh has said in the company's annual report that growth in the housing sector can be sustained only if certain basic issues are dealt with effectively & efficiently. In his Chairman's statement in the report, Parekh raises a clarion call for the need for Town Planning, Repeal of the urban land ceiling act, a need to increase FSI, Review of Central Environmental Clearanace and a rationalisation of taxation and rent control laws.

July 07, 2006

Orissa road improvements of Rs.58 crore approved

New Delhi, July 07, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T. R. Baalu has approved ten road improvement works under Central Road Fund (CRF) proposals in the State of Orissa at a total cost of about Rs. 5829.10 lakh.

July 06, 2006

Uttar Pradesh road improvements of Rs.183 crore approved

New Delhi, July 06, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Thiru T. R. Baalu has approved seventeen road improvement works under Central Road Fund (CRF) proposals in the State of Uttar Pradesh at a total cost of about Rs. 183.83 crore.

Planning Commission earmarks $69 Billion for Infrastructure in India

The Planning Commission has earmarked a whooping sum of Rs. 3,20,000 crore (US$69 Billion) for modernization, upgradation of ports, airports and highways for the 11th Plan Period to make India as world-class manufacturing hub with the best of infrastructure facilities, according to Mr. Mr. Gajendra Haldea, Advisor, Planning Commission.

July 04, 2006

Indian port infrastructure needs to be enhanced; Centre-state co-operation essential

New Delhi, July 04, 2006 : An Interactive Session with Port Secretaries and the State Port Authorities of various Maritime States/UTs organized by the Department of Shipping to discuss the present scenario and future plans of various maritime States concluded here last evening. Speaking on the occasion, the Secretary (Shipping), Shri A.K. Mohaptara said that it was a historical initiative between the Centre and the States to join hands for building of port infrastructure so as to meet the future capacity requirements of the country. He also projected a scenario wherein facilities for 2000 Million Tonnes capacity need to be created to cope with the demands of the Maritime Trade by 2016-17.

TCS to open $150 million facility in Chennai by end of year

Information technology major, Tata Consultancy Services, is to open a $150 million IT facility in Chennai by the fourth quarter of this year according to news reports. The facility is coming up in Siruseri Industrial Park on over 75 acres of land. The first phase with a seating capacity of 3,500 is likely to be ready by the end of the year while the second phase expected by the second quarter of next year will create a seating capacity for over 20,000 people. TCS employs over 14,000 people in Chennai and services over 20 of its top 30 clients from Chennai.

July 03, 2006

Ambulances to be deployed at every 50-km on national highways

New Delhi, July 03, 2006 : Ambulances with state-of-the-art equipment would be deployed by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at a distance of  50 kms on completed stretches of national highways entrusted to them. The Department of Economic Affairs of the Union Finance Ministry and the Department of Road Transport & Highways would jointly devise an insurance-funded system of payment for the treatment of victims of hit and run accidents. A national toll-free telephone number, 108, would be earmarked on which information on accident can be passed on immediately by the co-passengers / passersby.

June 27, 2006

HDFC India Real Estate Fund to invest in L&T's Urban Infrastructure venture

L&T Infrastructure Development Projects Limited (L&T-IDPL) and L&T Urban Infrastructure Limited (L&T-UIL) have signed definitive agreements to raise Rs. 95 crore by way of equity and quasi-equity from Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC) and HDFC India Real Estate Fund (HIREF). HDFC will hold 14.9% equity and HIREF will hold 10.1% equity in L&T-UIL.

June 22, 2006

Cabinet approves transfer of land for improvement of Nagpur - Mumbai road

New Delhi, June 22, 2006 : The Union Cabinet today approved  the transfer of 3.83 acres of defence land near Central Ammunition Depot (CAD), Pulgaon at Mouza Gunijkheda costing Rs. 6,14,575 to Maharastra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) Ltd., a State Government Undertaking.   It will be utilized for improvement of Nagpur-Wadha-Pulgaon-Aurangabad-Mumbai road to the level of a National Highway in exchange for equal value land measuring approximately 34.66 acres costing Rs. 6,17,320 in village Bachharajpur, contiguous to CAD, Pulgaon.

June 15, 2006

L&T Wins Rs 750 Crore Indian Highway Contract

Mumbai, June 15, 2006: L&T has received an order valued at around Rs. 750 crores for the six laning of NH-8 from Vadodara to Bharuch in Gujarat. The contract was awarded by the National Highways Authority of India on Build-Operate-Transfer basis through international competitive bidding.

June 12, 2006

L&T Bags Rs. 4816 Million Indian Order for Water Supply System

Mumbai, June 12, 2006: Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T), India's leading engineering and construction organisation, has secured a Rs. 4816 million turnkey order for setting up a water supply system for the Bisalpur Water Supply Project from the Rajasthan Urban Infrastructure Development Project. Aided by the Asian Development Bank, this project will be executed by L&T's ECC Division.

June 09, 2006

New flyover opened on Delhi Gurgaon section of NH-8

New Delhi, June 09, 2006 : The Union Minister of Shipping Road Transport & Highways Thiru T.R. Baalu today opened the flyover at Rajeev Chowk across Gurgaon Sohna Road on the Delhi-Gurgaon Section of National Highway No. 8 on trial basis for public. The length of the flyover including approaches is about 1100 m. It is expected that the project highway from Palam to km 42.000 would be completed by December 2006 and from Rao Tula Ram Marg to Palam by June 2007.

May 28, 2006

India needs over US$150 billion in infrastructure investment

India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said that India needs over US$150 billion in infrastructure investment in the next few years. He was speaking at the annual meeting of the board of governors of the Asian Development Bank. While India's investment rate was 31% of GDP currently, this is likely to increase in the coming years accompanied by significant foreign investment in the infrastructure sector.

Unitech strikes gold in Noida real estate deal

Unitech, a leading real estate developer in India, has won a bid for a 340 acre plot auctioned by the Noida Development Authority in Sector 96,97 and 98. Unitech's bid of Rs. 1,583 crore topped other rivals such as DLF and ICT Bangalore. The company plans to build residential accomodation on the land. No commercial developments are allowed in this low-density area.

May 26, 2006

Destination Hyderabad - The Deccan Queen is next on the hot real estate chart

Would you believe that over two thousand bankers and financiers in Asia would meet in Hyderabad. And that they would be part of a convention that was conducted smoothly with world-class facilities. You'd better believe it. The Asian Development Bank concluded its convention at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC), India's most modern yet.

May 25, 2006

Chennai's IT Corridor in the news again

India's Minister of Communications and IT, Mr. Dayanidhi Maran, has said that he would like to see Chennai's "IT Corridor" extended all the way to Mahabalipuram. Speaking to reporters at SIPCOT's Siruseri IT Park, Mr. Maran said the extension would help as land prices have spiralled out of control on the first stretch of the IT corridor up to Siruseri. There is also a need for Chennai to learn from experiences in Bangalore and provide housing near the IT Corridor.

May 21, 2006

The sheiks are coming: Indian real estate on a magic carpet

Chennai, May 19 - Middle East real estate giants are closely examining Indian shores. Hardly surprising,given the close business and people links between India and the desert kingdoms. For decades, Indian labour, both skilled and unskilled, worked the mid-east route. Now, Arab dollars are coming this way - in billions.

May 18, 2006

National Highways upgradation approved by Cabinet

New Delhi, May 18, 2006 :  The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for inclusion of 1,113 km of National Highways for upgradation under National Highways Development Project  (NHDP) Phase-III over and above the length of 10,000 km.  With this inclusion, total length of National Highways to be upgraded under NHDP Phase-III would be 11,113 km.

DLF seeks to transform organisation ahead of IPO

DLF has made changes in its Board of Directors prior to the IPO. Rana Talwar, formerly the head of Standard Chartered Bank globally, and also the son in law of DLF owner KP Singh has been inducted into the board at DLF. Four independent directors have also been appointed to the baord including MM Sabharwal, ex-chairman of Bata, DV Kapur, ex-chairman Reliance Power, Ravinder Narain and KN Memani.

The company has also significantly enhanced its employee talent pool with the hiring of almost 200 managers in the last six months.

Consulting firm McKinsey has recently been hired by DLF group to effect a change in work culture and business practises at the real estate gian.

These moves appear to be aimed at preparing for the IPO and also in driving the transformation of DLF into a world-class company.

DLF is expected to raise between $3-3.5 Billion in an initial public offering that would offer up to a 12.8% stake in the company. The offer document indicates that the company plans to issue 202 million shares with an option to sell another 17 million shares. Jones Lang LaSalle, a leading property consultant, has valued its 228 million square feet holdings at approximately $19 Billion.

DLF plans to utilise the funds for further land acquisition, retiring debts, on-going construction, and its foray into development in the SEZ and hospitality sectors.

Kochi Smart City project signing given the go ahead

The Kerala High Court has given the go ahead for the Kerala Government to sign an agreement with Dubai Internet City for development of the Rs.15 billion "Smart City" in Kochi. The signing had been delayed because of the assemmbly polls and an Election commission directive.

According to an MOU signed earlier, the government would hand over the existing Infopark at a cost of approximately $22 million, 136 acres of land at approximately $600,000 per acre and another 100 acres of land on a 99-year lease free of cost.

May 14, 2006

Don’t make SEZ real estate scams - Kiran Karnik

Writing in the Economic Times, Kiran Karnik President of Nasscom raises valid concerns about the the rapid development of SEZs and the need to ensure that the SEZ schemes get implemented right. Rather than focus on minimum requirements around exports, employment and investment, the criteria specified currently is on minimum land area. And this according to Mr. Karnik is likely to have the converse effect of maximising land acquisition by developers.

May 13, 2006

Urban Infrastructure Opportunities Fund to raise Rs. 250 crores for real estate investment in India

The Urban Infrastructure Opportunities Fund (UIOF) is a new fund floated by Anand Jain for investment in real estate and retail projects in India. The fund, with an initial corpus of Rs. 250 crores, will invest in housing, retail malls and multiplexes, IT parks and commercial property across the country.

Reliance Industries is investing Rs. 200 crores in UIOF.  The fund opens for subscription soon and is targeting an initial corpus of Rs. 250 crores. The minimum investment limit is Rs 1 crore for individuals, Rs 2.5 crore for corporates and Rs 10 crore for banks and financial institutions.

DLF- Laing O’Rourke to bid for Indian airport modernisation contracts

DLF plans to bid for upcoming airport modernisation of the Kolkata and Chennai airports, in partnership with Laing O’Rourke, a construction-cum-infrastructure company of the UK. The tenders for the projects are expected to come out in a month’s time.

Airport modernisation is becoming big business. In addition to Delhi & Mumbai (already awarded), Kolkata and Chennai (on the anvil), another 35 airports are due to come up for modernisation contracts to be completed in 5 to 7 years. DLF- Laing O’Rourke will decide on bidding for the other contracts on a case by case basis.

TCG - Vornado Realty of the US partner for large real estate projects in India

TCG Real Estate (TCGRE), promoted by Purnendu Chatterjee, has tied up with the $25billion US-based Vornado Realty Trust for investment in large format projects like special economic zones (SEZs) and special economic regions (SERs).  TCG - Vornado has bid for the proposed 330-acre IT hub at Jagdishpur, near Kolkata airport, and New Town, Rajarhat. The company is also planning an SEZ in West Bengal and is looking at Haldia, Durgapur, Burdwan and Siliguri as possible locations. 

TCG has so far focused on construction of IT parks.  Based on current projects and those under execution, the company would have a floor area of 9.8 million square feet by 2009-10 up from 900,000 square feet in 2005-06.

Mangalore SEZ attracts companies

Many companies from the manufacturing and service sectors have shown interest in setting up their units in the Mangalore SEZ. The Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) is the anchor investor in the Mangalore SEZ project. MRPL has envisaged projects such as an LNG terminal, C2-C3 separation units, and aromatic and olefin complexes in the petrochemical component of the SEZ.

Pharmaceutical and shipbuilding companies in the manufacturing sector, and various service sector companies have shown interest in setting up their units in general-purpose multi-product component of SEZ, according to news reports.

April 27, 2006

Cabinet approves Bangalore Metro Rail Project

New Delhi, April 27, 2006 : The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for implementation of the Bangalore Metro Rail Project by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) covering a length of 33 Kms. in 2 corridors at current cost of Rs. 5453 crore. The project will have a debt equity ratio of 70 : 30. The main objective of the project is to provide reliable, safe, energy efficient, comfortable, affordable, and non-polluting rail based mass transit system for Bangalore City.

April 05, 2006

Cabinet approves adoption of National Urban Transport Policy

New Delhi, April 05, 2006 : The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for adoption of the National Urban Transport Policy. The objective of the policy is to ensure safe, affordable, quick, comfortable, reliable and sustainable access for the growing number of city residents for jobs, education, recreation.

February 23, 2006

269-km Peripheral Expressway project to commence by July in NCR

New Delhi, February 23, 2006 :  Regional Plan-2021 of National Capital Region notified on 17.09.2005 recommends implementation of Peripheral Expressways comprising Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressway on priority basis in first phase besides other radiating roads and National Highways. Consensus on construction of Peripheral Expressway has been arrived at.

February 22, 2006

Connecting Metro cities in India with Expressways

New Delhi, February 22, 2006 : Presently, four metro cities are being connected with four lane National Highways under Golden Quadrilateral component of National Highways Development Project (NHDP) Phase-I. It is proposed to widen these four lane National Highways to six lane facility under NHDP Phase-V. Construction of 1000 km of expressway is also proposed under NHDP Phase-VI, the details for which are under discussion with Planning Commission.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Shri K. H. Muniyappa in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

December 08, 2005

Six laning of 6,500 km of National Highways in India

New Delhi, December 08, 2005 : The Government is considering a Rs.22,750 crore project to lay six lane roads covering 6,500 km of national highways.


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