+
ICRA predicts 5-8% rise in India's road construction 2024/25
ROADS & HIGHWAYS

ICRA predicts 5-8% rise in India's road construction 2024/25

ICRA, the Indian arm of the Fitch ratings agency, stated that India is anticipated to maintain its current momentum in road construction. They projected an addition of up to 13,000 kilometres in the 12 months through March 2025, marking an annual increase of 5-8%.

According to government estimates, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure since 2014, India has constructed approximately 90,000 kilometres of national highways, nearly double the amount built in the preceding decade.

Modi is touting road infrastructure as a significant achievement in his campaign leading up to the general election, which commences with voting.

The capital expenditure on roads surged to Rs 2.4 trillion in 2022/23 from Rs 510 billion in 2013/14.

Despite a sluggish start last year due to heavy rains in certain regions of the country, road construction has gained pace since September. ICRA mentioned in a statement that this momentum is likely to persist.

ICRA stated, "The pace of execution in this fiscal year will be supported by a healthy pipeline of projects, increased capital outlay by the government, and a focus on project completion."

Vinay Kumar, vice president and sectoral head of corporate ratings at ICRA, noted that the government's project award pipeline stands at over 45,000 km, indicating robustness, despite delays in cabinet approvals for revised cost estimates.

To offer temporary relief to millions of motorists, truckers, and commercial vehicle owners, the government postponed a proposed hike in road toll charges for about two months earlier this month.

India's road transport minister has set a target of constructing more than 35 kilometres of roads per day in the current fiscal year.

ICRA, the Indian arm of the Fitch ratings agency, stated that India is anticipated to maintain its current momentum in road construction. They projected an addition of up to 13,000 kilometres in the 12 months through March 2025, marking an annual increase of 5-8%. According to government estimates, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure since 2014, India has constructed approximately 90,000 kilometres of national highways, nearly double the amount built in the preceding decade. Modi is touting road infrastructure as a significant achievement in his campaign leading up to the general election, which commences with voting. The capital expenditure on roads surged to Rs 2.4 trillion in 2022/23 from Rs 510 billion in 2013/14. Despite a sluggish start last year due to heavy rains in certain regions of the country, road construction has gained pace since September. ICRA mentioned in a statement that this momentum is likely to persist. ICRA stated, The pace of execution in this fiscal year will be supported by a healthy pipeline of projects, increased capital outlay by the government, and a focus on project completion. Vinay Kumar, vice president and sectoral head of corporate ratings at ICRA, noted that the government's project award pipeline stands at over 45,000 km, indicating robustness, despite delays in cabinet approvals for revised cost estimates. To offer temporary relief to millions of motorists, truckers, and commercial vehicle owners, the government postponed a proposed hike in road toll charges for about two months earlier this month. India's road transport minister has set a target of constructing more than 35 kilometres of roads per day in the current fiscal year.

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Budget Proposal Aims to Boost Investments

The recent budget proposal has introduced measures designed to promote investments and generate job opportunities across various industries, as reported by the Economic Times. This initiative seeks to stimulate economic activity and strengthen the country's growth trajectory by encouraging both domestic and foreign investments. Key aspects of the proposal include targeted incentives for sectors poised for expansion, such as renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology. The government aims to create a more favorable investment climate by offering tax benefits, subsidies, and streamlined reg..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Indian Financial System Resilient Amidst Challenges

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor M. Rajeshwar Rao has emphasized the robust nature of the Indian financial system despite global economic headwinds, according to Economic Times. Rao?s comments reflect confidence in the stability and resilience of India's financial sector amidst a backdrop of international economic uncertainties and financial volatility. Rao highlighted that India?s financial system is well-equipped to handle external shocks due to its solid regulatory framework and prudent risk management practices. The country?s banking sector has demonstrated resilience throug..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

SC Allows State Tax on Mines, Minerals

Opposition leaders have welcomed the Supreme Court's recent decision permitting states to levy taxes on mines and mineral-bearing lands, as reported. The ruling is seen as a significant victory for state governments seeking greater control and revenue from natural resource extraction within their jurisdictions. The Supreme Court?s decision empowers states to impose taxes on mining operations and mineral-rich lands, which could enhance their revenue streams and enable better management of local resources. This move is particularly important for states with substantial mineral resources, as it a..

Talk to us?