Cement firms report strong volume growth amidst realisation challenges

24 Aug 2023 CW Team

Cement companies experienced robust double-digit volume growth in the previous quarter due to strong domestic demand, according to data from 42 firms. Despite this, limited improvement in realisations and higher-than-expected raw material costs resulted in a mixed performance. Net profit for the quarter improved by 5.8% year-on-year (y-o-y), but declined 12% sequentially. The year-on-year profit before interest and tax increased by 14.4%, while sequentially it declined by 7.5%. Realisations dropped by 1% sequentially on average, impacting operating performance despite the volume growth. Average cement prices per 50kg bag also saw a decline. Cement companies' performance slightly missed expectations due to stagnant profitability and lower-than-anticipated cost reductions. While the average Ebitda per tonne improved slightly, it was still lower by 7.8% compared to the previous year.

Challenges persist in the current quarter as construction activities slow down post-monsoon. Analysts highlight the importance of cement price stabilisation for future earnings support. Despite the obstacles, analysts remain positive about strong volume growth in the upcoming fiscal year and closely monitor cement price trends for future developments. The correction in blended fuel costs provides a potential support factor for manufacturers' earnings.

Infrastructure Transport

05 Feb 2026

MMRDA Installs 325-Tonne Steel Spans on Mumbai Metro Line 4

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has achieved a key construction milestone on Metro Line 4 with the successful installation of three large steel spans at Bhandup West during overnight operations.The spans, together weighing 325 metric tonnes, were launched using eight heavy-duty cranes and 12 multi-axle vehicles. The operation required precise engineering and meticulous planning to minimise disruption in the densely populated suburban area.Due to effective inter-agency coordination, the work—originally scheduled across four nights—was completed within just two n..

CMRL Targets March 2027 Opening for Vadapalani–Panagal Park

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is progressing as scheduled to open the Vadapalani–Panagal Park section of Phase II’s Corridor 4 by March 2027. The 3.5 km underground stretch is part of the 26.1 km Corridor 4 connecting Lighthouse with Poonamallee Bypass.Construction activities are advancing steadily, with tunnelling works between Vadapalani and Panagal Park already completed. Track-laying operations are expected to commence shortly. At Panagal Park station, structural works have reached the concourse and platform levels, while excavation continues at the lowest level.CMRL is also consid..

Maha-Metro Invites Pune Metro Civil Maintenance Bids

Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) has invited bids for the annual civil maintenance contract of the Pune Metro Rail Project. The tender, bearing ID and number P1-O&M-20/2025, is scheduled to close on 23 February 2026, with a pre-bid meeting slated for 10 February 2026. The earnest money deposit (EMD) for the contract is Rs 3,50,500, and the duration of the contract is one year.The scope of work includes annual civil maintenance of 28 elevated and underground stations, 28.079 km of elevated viaduct including steel bridges, 12.15 km of tunnels, and two depots under the ..