Transforming Urban Mobility
RAILWAYS & METRO RAIL

Transforming Urban Mobility

The 3rd Annual Metro Rail Conference, held on 22 January 2025 at Radisson Blu, Mumbai, gathered over 150 industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators. The event highlighted achievements, innovations, and challenges within the metro rail sector. Sessions focused on Metro Rail Expansion in India,...

The 3rd Annual Metro Rail Conference, held on 22 January 2025 at Radisson Blu, Mumbai, gathered over 150 industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators. The event highlighted achievements, innovations, and challenges within the metro rail sector. Sessions focused on Metro Rail Expansion in India, technological advancements, public-private partnerships, and the economic and environmental impact of metro systems.The conference’s agenda was packed with engaging panel discussions, case studies, and expert insights on urban planning, digital transformation, financing, sustainability, and innovations in the metro rail space. It reaffirmed its role as a key event shaping the future of urban mobility in India.Pratap Padode, Founder & President, FIRST Construction Council & Editor- In- Chief, Construction World, opened the conference by noting, “Metro systems have transformed travel in India. Covering over 1,000 km across 11 states and 23 cities, these networks support millions, contributing to India becoming home to the third-largest metro system globally.”Transforming the Metro ExperienceSession I explored the integration of metros with Smart Cities and urban transport networks, focusing on last-mile connectivity solutions such as Namo Bharat (RRTS) and the introduction of MetroLite and MetroNeo systems for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Moderated by Vishal Ramprasad, Senior Program Manager at WRI India, it featured insights from industry leaders like Shantanu Goel (Joint MD, CIDCO), Vinod Kumar Yadav (NCC Transport), Dr. M.P. Ramnavas (Director, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd.), and Alok Sharma (Director, Autodesk).Driving Digital Transformation in Metro RailSession II delved into the adoption of AI, automation, and IoT for metro operations, exploring challenges in automated signalling, smart ticketing, and digital fare collection. The session highlighted the success of Delhi Metro’s Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) system. Moderated by Nilabha Dey, Director at KPMG, the session featured experts such as MJS Raman (IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation), PK Pandey (RDSO), and Anuj Goel (Mumbai Metro One Pvt. Ltd.).Unlocking the Future of Metro FinancingSession III focused on innovative funding solutions for metro projects, including PPP models, land value capture, and attracting international investors. The discussion also examined financing strategies for metro systems in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Moderated by Suneet K Maheshwari (Udvik Infrastructure Advisors LLP), the session featured insights from AVR Srinivas Sharma (CFO, L&T Metro Rail), Anand B Surange (Director, Infrastructure Advisors Pvt Ltd), Arnab Choudhury (Executive Vice President & Group Head DCM, SBI Capital Markets) and Sandeep U (CEO, Centrum Capital).Pioneering Green Metro InnovationsSession IV addressed sustainability in metro rail development, covering topics such as driverless metro technologies, energy-efficient traction systems, and BIM for cost and time optimisation. Key experts included Suyash Trivedi (Executive Director, Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd.), Bhargav Jog (Dextra India), and Umesh Rajeshirke (Managing Director, Spectrum Consultants India).The conference brought together industry leaders to explore the evolving landscape of metro rail systems in India, with a focus on technological advancements, sustainable financing, and operational efficiency. Dr. Shankar Raman of IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation highlighted the transformative role of automation and data-driven decisions in metro operations. A key case study on Mumbai Metro Line 1, presented by Shyamantak Choudhury (CEO, Mumbai Metro One Pvt. Ltd.), showcased its sustainability and operational viability. Additionally, Parag Raut (Tata Steel Ltd.) discussed Modern Reinforcement Solutions, while R. Ananta Kumar (Director BU Head, AFCONS Infrastructure Ltd.) presented innovative methods for easier and faster construction in metro projects.In conclusion, the conference provided a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in metro rail development, underscoring the importance of collaboration, technological innovation, and sustainable practices for the future of urban mobility in India.

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Madhya Pradesh Champions Inclusive Tourism at Heritage Sites

On the occasion of World Heritage Day, Madhya Pradesh is taking a significant step toward inclusive tourism by making its historical sites accessible to all — especially persons with disabilities. The state is rolling out its ‘Accessibility Infrastructure and Development’ project at Maheshwar, Mandu, Dhar, and Orchha, aiming to create a more welcoming experience at these iconic cultural destinations.The initiative, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and Tourism Minister Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, includes infrastructure upgrades such as ramps, Braille signage, w..

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Runwal Realty Onboards Sonam Kapoor as Brand Ambassador

Real estate major Runwal has unveiled a refreshed identity as Runwal Realty, signalling a renewed commitment to crafting spaces that stand the test of time. With this refresh, the brand unveils its new philosophy: “Building for Generations to Come” and welcomes Bollywood star and global fashion icon Sonam Kapoor as its brand ambassador. This evolved identity reflects Runwal Realty’s commitment to creating not just homes, but heirlooms—crafted through visionary design, meticulous planning, global design expertise and an unwavering focus on quality. With the customer at its core, each de..

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Infrastructure Urban

Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport 2025: KPMG

KPMG’s latest report, The Great Reset: Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport 2025 edition, sheds light on the profound changes transforming the global infrastructure landscape. As industries adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, economic pressures, and technological advancements, the report identifies key trends and provides actionable insights for leaders in infrastructure and transport sectors. “In today’s interconnected world, the lack of standardized supply chain practices is not just an operational challenge—it’s an environmental and economic one. We’..

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