Mumbai, August 30, 2024 – The second RAHSTA Forum 2024, held on August 30 at Hotel Sahara Star, has successfully set the stage for the highly anticipated RAHSTA Expo 2024. This prelude event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and key stakeholders to engage in insightful discussions, setting the tone for what promises to be a landmark event in India’s road and highway infrastructure sector.

The Forum was inaugurated by Pratap Padode, Founder of the FIRST Construction Council, a pioneering organisation dedicated to advancing India’s infrastructure development. Padode emphasised the Forum’s role as a crucial stepping stone toward the RAHSTA Expo 2024 and highlighted the upcoming RAHSTA Awards.

He remarked, “Out of the total Rs 2.78 lakh crore allocated, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been designated around Rs 1.68 lakh crore as part of MoRTH’s capital expenditure plan for 2024-25. The government is focusing on developing access-controlled national highways and ensuring they meet a minimum of two lanes with paved shoulder standards.”

Vipin Sondhi, Chairman of the RAHSTA Expo Committee and former MD and CEO of JCB India and Ashok Leyland, added, “The positive momentum in the industry is further reinforced by the 2024 Union Budget, which emphasises rapid infrastructure growth, particularly in roadways. The significant increase in capital expenditure dedicated to improving and expanding road infrastructure signals the government’s commitment to building a world-class network of roads and highways. This investment will not only enhance connectivity across the nation but also spur economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for millions of citizens.”

A key highlight of the Forum was an engaging panel discussion on “BOT Revised Scheme, QCBS Tender System, and Road Projects Being Awarded.” Moderated by Vijay Agrawal, Managing Director at Equirus, the discussion featured a distinguished panel of experts: