Govt Defers OTR-2024 Implementation to September 2026

16 Jun 2025 CW Team

In a significant development for the construction, mining, and heavy equipment industries, the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has officially deferred the implementation of the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024 (OTR-2024) by one year. The new compliance date is now set for September 1, 2026.

The OTR-2024, originally notified on August 28, 2024, was to come into effect from August 28, 2025. It aimed to regulate the safety of machinery and electrical equipment, including earthmoving, construction, mining equipment, cranes, and their assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components. However, equipment covered under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) was excluded from this regulation.

The Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (ICEMA) had actively engaged with the Ministry of Heavy Industries and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), voicing industry-wide concerns regarding the stringent timelines and challenges related to the regulation's immediate implementation. ICEMA submitted multiple representations requesting a reconsideration of the deadlines to ensure the industry’s smooth transition to the new safety standards.

Responding to these concerns, the MHI issued Notification S.O. 2579(E) dated June 13, 2025, which formalises the deferment of the regulation’s enforcement to September 1, 2026. The notification also clarifies that while the main equipment listed in the First Schedule will now be regulated from this new date, the applicability of safety norms to assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components will be notified separately by the Central Government.

ICEMA has urged its members to continue providing inputs and actively participate in addressing regulatory challenges to support the industry's long-term growth and safety compliance.

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..