NHAI borrowings rise as construction of roads speeds up
As RK Pandey, Member (Projects), National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), says, “NHAI is the source of funding for our budgetary support, toll collection and cess money; apart from that, we borrow money. However, it is not like we are borrowing for the completion of projects.”
The average cost of acquiring land has reportedly soared to Rs 25 million per hectare compared to Rs 8 million in 2012. The increased level of borrowing could be mainly owing to the spiralling cost of land acquisition and reduced fund flow from cess on fuel. However, reports suggest these hurdles have not stopped the highway authority from stepping up the pace of road construction. The average length of roads constructed per day between FY2012 and FY2014 was 10.9 km, while the same increased to 22 km between FY2016 and FY2018.
“For market borrowing, we have a number of ways,” adds Pandey. “It could be through bonds, masala bonds or banks, whichever is the cheapest.”
Last year, NHAI reportedly spent nearly Rs 950 billion laying new roads, of which a third went towards acquiring land. It is expected to pay back its lenders through earnings from toll revenue and by selling the rights to collect toll for already profitable roads.
- DIKSHA JAWLE
Haworth India Hosts Women’s Leadership Panel Series
Haworth India marked International Women’s Day by hosting a leadership roundtable series titled ‘Give to Gain’, bringing together senior women leaders from architecture and design firms, corporates and project management consultancies. The series has been conducted in Delhi and Mumbai, with upcoming sessions scheduled in Bengaluru and Hyderabad on 27 March 2026. Structured as moderated panel discussions followed by audience interaction, the initiative examined the business impact of women’s leadership and the role of inclusive workplaces in supporting professional growth. Manish Khan..
Max Estates Secures RERA For Max One Project
Max Estates has secured RERA approval (UPRERA No.: UPRERAPRJ9759) for its Max One development around Max Towers in Sector 16B, Noida, bringing renewed progress to a project previously stalled following the insolvency of its earlier developer. Spread across around 10 acres with an estimated development potential of about 2.5 million sq ft, Max One is planned as an integrated mixed-use campus combining serviced residences, premium offices, retail spaces and a private club. The project is expected to generate total sales potential of about Rs 20 billion along with an estimated annuity rental inc..
Hindware Introduces Starc Smart Wall Mount Toilet
Hindware has introduced the Starc Smart Wall-Mount Toilet under its Hindware Italian Collection, designed to combine automation, hygiene and contemporary bathroom aesthetics. The model features automatic flushing, sensor-based seat opening and closing, and remote-controlled functions. It also includes an oscillating water spray and warm air dryer for cleaning, along with a self-cleaning nozzle designed to maintain hygiene. Additional features include adjustable heated seating, customisable water temperature and pressure settings, a foot-touch flush system and an LCD control interface. The wa..
Latest Updates
