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On the third day of CII EXCON 2023, during the Session on ‘Exploring Opportunities in Defence & Border Roads Projects’, Border Roads Organization (BRO) shed light on its extensive contributions to infrastructure development and outlined future initiatives. “The organization, operating since 1960, has successfully executed over 61,500 roads, nearly 1000 permanent bridges, and 21 airports in challenging terrains and adverse climatic conditions across the nation and three other countries,” said Lt. Gen Arvind Walia, Engineer -In- Chief, Military Engineering Services, Ministry of Defence, Government of India. “Leveraging state-of-the-art technological solutions, the organization has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation and efficiency. The successful execution of infrastructure projects in diverse and challenging environments stands as a testament to the seamless integration of advanced technologies into the BRO's operational strategies,” he added.

Lt General Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of the Border Roads Organisation, remarked, "Through engaging with our industry partners, the BRO effectively conveyed its precise requirements for a model bridge, emphasizing the necessity for increased width, two lanes, and enhanced support for larger spans with a higher load classification. In response to these clearly defined needs, the industry has successfully delivered a model of the bridge that aligns with these specifications. The triumph of this collaborative endeavor underscores the indispensable role played by state-of-the-art construction equipment technologies in meeting the evolving requirements of organizations like the BRO. Advanced engineering and construction equipment, characterized by their adaptability and precision, not only facilitated the realization of the organization's specific demands but also significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of the infrastructure development process." 

Mr. Sandeep Singh, Managing Director, Tata Hitachi Construction Machinery Company Pvt Ltd and Mr Anand Sundaresan, Managing Director, Ammann India also spoke at the Session.

At a separate CEO Roundtable 2023 on the theme, ‘Infrastructure  Growth Story – Driving Sustained Demand’, convened prominent industry leaders for an in-depth conversation addressing the challenges and opportunities within India's construction equipment sector. The discussions centered around the crucial role played by the Indian Construction Equipment (CE) industry in the nation's infrastructure development.

The session dwelved into a range of subjects, highlighting sustainable development, a dedication to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, and the obstacles encountered by companies such as Reach International in supplying aerial work platforms for construction sites. Panel participants recognized the importance of private-sector funding to supplement government initiatives in infrastructure advancement. Noteworthy points encompassed the sector's emphasis on digitalization, minimal Non-Performing Assets (NPAs), and the vital collaboration between industry and academia to tackle skill shortages in the operation of construction equipment.

Mr. Vivekanand Vanmeeganathan, President, ICEMA said, “In the context of sustainability, the industry acknowledges the crucial importance of ESG. Commitment to sustainable practices is not only for current operations but also for ensuring a sustainable future for the industry.”

Mr. Jaswinder Singh Bakshi, Chairman – Taskforce on User Industry EXCON 2023 said, “The government's focus on infrastructure is evident in increasing budget outlays, with flagship initiatives like NIP, NLP, and GMP driving steady growth. Optimism is high due to a significant pipeline of projects, indicating sustained and growing demand for the next five years."

Other speakers at the session included; Mr. Sandeep Singh, Managing Director, Tata Hitachi Construction Machinery Company Pvt Ltd; Mr. V G Sakthikumar, Managing Director, Schwing Stetter India Pvt Ltd; Mr. Munish Sharda, Group Executive & Head (Bharat Banking), Axis Banking; Mr. Ramu Ravuri, Managing Director, M/s Sree Raja Rajeswari Constructions(India) Pvt Ltd and Mr. Dhruv Sharma, Founder, Reach International.

CII EXCON 2023 highlighted a collective industry commitment to embrace sustainability, recognizing its significance not only for current operations but also for ensuring a resilient and eco-friendly future. As the dialogue unfolds, it becomes evident that the trajectory of India's infrastructure sector holds promise, backed by determined efforts to address challenges and leverage opportunities for long-term growth.