BHEL among 5 bidders to manufacture 200 Vande Bharat trains

07 Dec 2022 CW Team

The mega contract to produce and supply 200 Vande Bharat trains and maintain them for the next 35 years was bid for by Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL), Titagarh Wagons (TWL), and four other bidders.

Other bidders include the French company Alstom, a partnership between the Swiss companies Stadler Rail and Medha Servo Drives, Siemens and BEML, the Russian Transmashholding (TMH) with an Indian company, and the French company BEML.

Notably, the BHEL-TWL consortium is the only one that is entirely Indian, with both of its members being homegrown businesses. Given the lengthy contract commitment of 35+ years, PSU BHEL being the lead member would be advantageous. Additionally, it would support the government of India's Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

The technical bids for the contract are currently being evaluated by Indian Railways, and the financial bids will be opened in 45 days. The successful bidder must create a sleeper class prototype for Vande Bharat trains within 24 months, per the tender document.

The premium Rajdhani Express service is expected to receive a significant upgrade from the Vande Bharat trains, and Indian Railways plans to introduce the first sleeper version of the Vande Bharat trains by the first quarter of 2024. Indian Railways has so far awarded contracts for the production of 102 chair-carrying Vande Bharat trains.

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..