SC to Hear DMRC Contempt Case

21 Nov 2024 CW Team

The dispute traces back to the termination of the Delhi Airport Metro Express Line contract in 2012, which Reliance Infra claims was due to structural defects in the line, holding DMRC responsible. An arbitration tribunal awarded Rs 4,600 crore to DAMEPL in 2017. Subsequently, DMRC made partial payments but remains in arrears of Rs 2,800 crore, a situation that has escalated to a contempt plea.

DMRC, in its filing, has sought relief from the apex court to address Reliance Infra's alleged non-compliance. The legal proceedings are critical, as DMRC faces significant financial constraints, and the payment obligation could impact its operations and urban transportation projects. The case highlights broader concerns about public-private partnerships (PPPs) in infrastructure, particularly regarding the clarity of contractual obligations and mechanisms for dispute resolution.

Reliance Infra argues that DMRC’s financial obligations should not be deferred further, emphasizing the need for timely restitution to sustain investor confidence in India's infrastructure sector. The matter has garnered widespread attention, as the outcome could set a precedent for resolving similar high-stakes disputes in the future.

As urban infrastructure remains a priority in India, the SC’s decision will be pivotal in shaping the operational and financial frameworks governing key projects, ensuring accountability and efficient resource allocation. The judgment is expected to have far-reaching implications for public transport systems and legal governance in PPP ventures.

The Supreme Court is set to hear a contempt petition filed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) against Reliance Infrastructure-led Delhi Airport Metro Express Private Limited (DAMEPL). The case revolves around a disputed arbitration award of Rs 2,800 crore that DMRC owes DAMEPL, with allegations that Reliance Infra has not adhered to previous court directives on the matter. The dispute traces back to the termination of the Delhi Airport Metro Express Line contract in 2012, which Reliance Infra claims was due to structural defects in the line, holding DMRC responsible. An arbitration tribunal awarded Rs 4,600 crore to DAMEPL in 2017. Subsequently, DMRC made partial payments but remains in arrears of Rs 2,800 crore, a situation that has escalated to a contempt plea. DMRC, in its filing, has sought relief from the apex court to address Reliance Infra's alleged non-compliance. The legal proceedings are critical, as DMRC faces significant financial constraints, and the payment obligation could impact its operations and urban transportation projects. The case highlights broader concerns about public-private partnerships (PPPs) in infrastructure, particularly regarding the clarity of contractual obligations and mechanisms for dispute resolution. Reliance Infra argues that DMRC’s financial obligations should not be deferred further, emphasizing the need for timely restitution to sustain investor confidence in India's infrastructure sector. The matter has garnered widespread attention, as the outcome could set a precedent for resolving similar high-stakes disputes in the future. As urban infrastructure remains a priority in India, the SC’s decision will be pivotal in shaping the operational and financial frameworks governing key projects, ensuring accountability and efficient resource allocation. The judgment is expected to have far-reaching implications for public transport systems and legal governance in PPP ventures.

Infrastructure Urban

07 Oct 2025

India To Invest $37 Billion To Boost Petrochemical Capacity

India is set to become a major global player in the petrochemicals industry, driven by a planned capital expenditure of $37 billion (Rs 3.1 trillion) aimed at reducing import dependency and enhancing self-sufficiency, according to S&P Global Ratings.In its latest report titled “First China, Now India: Self-Sufficiency Goals Will Add To Petrochemicals Supply”, S&P said India’s large-scale capacity expansion—mirroring China’s earlier push—will likely intensify oversupply pressures in Asia’s petrochemical markets.Currently the world’s third-largest petrochemical consumer a..

Infrastructure Transport

07 Oct 2025

Indian Railways Expands Global Exports Of Rail Equipment

Indian Railways has announced that it is rapidly emerging as a global exporter of railway equipment, including bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems, under the government’s ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.According to an official statement, India’s railway products are now reaching over 16 international markets, reflecting the country’s growing capacity to design, develop, and deliver world-class rail solutions.Metro coaches have been exported to Australia and Canada; bogies to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia; propulsion systems t..

Infrastructure Transport

07 Oct 2025

RailTel Awards Rs 163 Million Contract To RTNS Technology

RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a Mini Ratna Public Sector Undertaking, has awarded a domestic work order worth Rs 163 million to RTNS Technology Private Limited.The contract, issued on 30 September 2025, involves the supply and installation of equipment and related services for one of RailTel’s key customers. The project underscores RailTel’s commitment to advancing technology and communication infrastructure through collaboration with domestic system integrators.RTNS Technology Private Limited, an ISO-certified system integrator, provides comprehensive solutions for perim..