A sigh of Covid relief: Toll and HAM projects may benefit

In FY2021, the Government of India announced various liquidity measures under ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ financial package. Soon after, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and National Highways Authority of India (NHAI, rated CARE AAA and Stable) followed the suit by announcing slew of measures for the road sector in a bid to boost liquidity for roads  developers against the backdrop of Covid 19 pandemic and resurrect investor confidence. These measures have been extended on a time-to-time basis by NHAI. On 1 July 2021, NHAI proposed to MoRTH to continue the benefits till 30 September 2021 in addition to grant of extension of time (EoT) under Covid-II. 

In CARE Ratings’ view, if the proposal is accepted, the likely extension of relief measures shall augur well for the road  developers of under-construction Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) projects primarily in terms of EoT for completion and additional time for achieving financial closure. Presently, the road developers or sponsors are entitled to these benefits under the Atmanirbhar Bharat package announced in FY2021. The proposed grant of extension of concession period for  operational toll road projects is in alignment with the existing provisions of Concession Agreement. On an overall basis, in CARE Ratings’ opinion such extension in concession period for toll projects shall be limited to about 20 days. 

Ajmera Realty launches tree drive on Environment Day

Ajmera Realty & Infra India marked World Environment Day with a large-scale tree plantation initiative—Plant-with-Purpose—across its projects in Mumbai and Bangalore. The drive was inaugurated at Ajmera Manhattan and Ajmera Greenfinity in Wadala, with senior company officials and residents in attendance. The campaign encourages residents to embrace eco-conscious, self-reliant lifestyles by growing useful plants and trees within their communities. Horticulture expert Devendra Bhekar guided residents on creating and maintaining green spaces. Ajmera Realty planted over 500 trees..

Twaron®-reinforced tyre powers Brunel’s solar race car

Teijin Aramid’s Twaron® with circular content will debut in Bridgestone’s race tyres for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, supporting the Brunel Solar Team’s Nuna 13 car. This marks the first use of the recycled-content aramid in a high-performance race tyre. The Twaron®-reinforced belts help enhance durability, reduce rolling resistance, and maintain lightweight strength—critical for the 3,000-km solar race across Australia. Bridgestone combines this with ENLITENTM tech and other recycled inputs to maximise environmental and performance outcomes. Teijin Aramid, a..

Kamdhenu Paints launches new wood coating range

Kamdhenu Paints has launched a comprehensive premium wood coating range designed for both interior and exterior applications. The collection includes high-performance solutions like Kamwood 2K PU for a rich matt or high-gloss finish, Kamwood 1K PU for clarity and stain protection, and the Kamwood Melamyne system for a smooth, durable finish. Also featured are Kamwood Wood Stains, which enhance wood grains with vibrant colour, and NC Sanding Sealer for high-build grain filling. The range is supported by Kamwood Thinners for ease of application and optimal finish. Saurabh Agarwal, MD, ..