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DRDO and MIDHANI Sign MoU to Develop Special Steel for Advanced Aircraft

February 17, 2025

DRDO and MIDHANI Sign MoU to Develop Special Steel for Advanced Aircraft

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and public sector enterprise MIDHANI have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a high-strength, high-toughness special grade steel for aeronautical applications. The new steel, named MDN100, will play a crucial role in the development of advanced aircraft, including the much-anticipated fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

The MoU was formalised at the recently concluded Aero India 2025, a prestigious event where India’s defence and aerospace industries showcased their latest innovations. This collaboration between DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and MIDHANI is part of a broader push towards India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission, with a specific focus on reducing reliance on foreign materials and technologies in the defence sector.

MDN100, the steel being developed under this agreement, is set to play a pivotal role in the construction of aircraft components that are subjected to extremely high stress. The steel’s excellent forgeability makes it ideal for use in critical components of the AMCA and other advanced aircraft, where weight reduction is paramount. The lightweight yet durable steel offers significant advantages in terms of performance, helping to enhance the operational efficiency of aircraft while maintaining their structural integrity. DRDO’s ADA, which is responsible for the development of India’s combat aircraft, is leading the AMCA project, a programme expected to significantly enhance the Indian Air Force’s combat capabilities. Along with the AMCA, ADA is also overseeing other major programmes, including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2 and the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) for the Indian Navy.

MIDHANI, a key player in India’s defence manufacturing sector, has long been a supplier of critical materials for DRDO and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) in various aeronautical projects. In addition to the MDN100, MIDHANI also showcased its SuperNi 41 plates at the Aero India event. This nickel-chromium-based superalloy is capable of withstanding extreme temperatures and is expected to be used in the high-performance aero engines of the future. This collaboration between DRDO and MIDHANI is not just about advancing technology for India’s armed forces; it is a step towards making India a global leader in defence manufacturing. With the successful development and production of MDN100, India will be able to meet the material requirements for high-performance aircraft entirely within its borders, a critical component of the country’s self-reliance goals.

The partnership is an important milestone in India’s defence sector, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to indigenisation and innovation. With both organisations pooling their expertise, the MoU is expected to lay the foundation for a new era of defence manufacturing in India, one that is built on advanced technology, skilled craftsmanship, and a commitment to reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. As India continues to develop its aerospace capabilities, the development of MDN100 will serve as a vital step in ensuring that the country remains at the cutting edge of defence technology. This MoU is not only a victory for India’s aerospace industry but also a testament to the growing potential of the nation’s defence sector as a whole. In the years to come, as projects like the AMCA and LCA Mk2 move forward, the collaboration between DRDO and MIDHANI will undoubtedly contribute to India’s defence self-sufficiency, while also fostering greater innovation and industrial growth.

Aeronautical Development Agency and Mishra Dhatu Sign MoU for Indigenous High-Strength Steel

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February 17, 2025

Aeronautical Development Agency and Mishra Dhatu Sign MoU for Indigenous High-Strength Steel

At the Aero India-2025 airshow, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) of Bengaluru and Mishra Dhatu Nigam Ltd. (MIDHANI) of Hyderabad signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at the indigenous development of high-strength, high-toughness special steel for aerospace applications. This collaboration is set to strengthen India’s capabilities in developing advanced materials for the aerospace sector.

ADA, which leads the country’s combat aircraft development initiatives, has made significant strides in various aerospace disciplines in partnership with key organizations like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), DRDO, CSIR Labs, PSUs, and the Indian Air Force (IAF). The agency has been instrumental in the success of programs like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Tejas, LCA Mk2, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), and the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF). MIDHANI, a premier Defense Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), specializes in providing special metals and alloys in forms such as forged bars, rolled sheets, strips, foils, and wires. These materials cater to critical sectors, including aerospace, defense, space, atomic energy, and hydroelectric power.

As part of the ongoing push for indigenous aircraft development, ADA has partnered with MIDHANI for the creation of various materials necessary for building aircraft, with a focus on achieving self-sufficiency in the field of aeronautical materials. This includes the development of special steels, titanium alloys, and nickel alloys, which are crucial for the construction of advanced aircraft. The MoU between ADA and MIDHANI will focus on the development of the MDN100 steel, a special-grade steel that offers high strength and toughness, making it ideal for aerospace applications. The steel’s excellent forgeability means it can be used in manufacturing highly stressed aircraft parts, helping to reduce weight while maintaining strength—an essential factor in modern aerospace engineering. This partnership is expected to be a key step in bolstering India’s defense and aerospace capabilities, providing materials for future projects like LCA Mk2 and AMCA. The collaboration aligns with India’s broader goals of reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and advancing indigenous technologies.

UK to Invest £2.5 Billion in Steel Industry as US Tariffs Loom

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February 17, 2025

UK to Invest £2.5 Billion in Steel Industry as US Tariffs Loom

The UK government has revealed a multi-billion-pound initiative to protect the country’s steel industry, which is facing a looming threat of significant US trade tariffs. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour administration has committed to investing up to £2.5 billion ($3.2 billion) to help safeguard the sector’s future.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, speaking in a government statement, reassured the public that the UK steel industry has a long-term future under the current administration. The government’s move comes in response to an announcement by US President Donald Trump, who plans to impose a 25% tariff on steel and aluminium imports from March 12, 2024. While countries like Canada, Mexico, and Brazil are among the largest exporters of steel to the United States, South Korea and the UK also have significant exports. In 2023, Britain exported approximately £400 million ($495 million) worth of steel to the US, which accounts for about 10% of the UK’s total steel exports.

The UK’s steel industry body has expressed concerns that the tariff could deal a “devastating blow” to the sector, but the UK government is already taking proactive steps to address these challenges. Alongside the £2.5 billion package, the government has launched a consultation aimed at identifying ways to shield the steel sector from unfair international trading practices and to address the issue of high electricity costs for steel producers. The announcement comes amid a broader effort by the UK government to engage with the Trump administration to discuss the details of the proposed tariffs. With the looming risk of tariff imposition, the UK is focusing on protecting jobs, reducing the impact of trade barriers, and ensuring the steel industry remains competitive on the global stage. The UK’s strategy is set to support the industry in the face of increasing global competition and trade disruptions, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the nation’s industrial base for years to come.

Hero MotoCorp Forecasts Double-Digit Revenue Growth for Next Fiscal Year

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February 17, 2025

Hero MotoCorp Forecasts Double-Digit Revenue Growth for Next Fiscal Year

Hero MotoCorp, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, is forecasting strong double-digit revenue growth for the upcoming fiscal year. This positive outlook comes as the company continues its strategic focus on expanding into new products, premium segments, and electric vehicles (EVs). The company’s Chief Financial Officer, Vivek Anand, expressed confidence that these efforts would help drive growth in a competitive market.

In the December quarter, Hero MotoCorp posted ₹10,260 crore in revenue, continuing its momentum towards a positive outcome for the current fiscal year. The company is well on track to meet its target of double-digit revenue growth for FY24, and Anand is optimistic about repeating this success in the next fiscal year. “This year, we had guided for double-digit revenue growth, and based on our performance in the first nine months and the momentum in the fourth quarter, we believe we will see a repeat next year as well,” Anand stated during an analyst call. For the full fiscal year 2024, Hero MotoCorp’s consolidated revenue from operations reached ₹37,789 crore, a solid increase from ₹34,158 crore in FY23. This growth reflects the company’s continued ability to adapt to shifting market dynamics, particularly with a renewed focus on premium motorcycles and electric vehicles.

As the company aims to maintain its leadership in the market, Hero MotoCorp is ramping up investments in its EV segment and premium offerings. Anand highlighted the launch of new products and the expansion of its 125cc portfolio as key drivers of this growth. “With new product launches and strong investments in power brands, we expect to outpace industry growth,” he said, underscoring Hero’s intention to capture a larger share of the premium market. The company’s focus on customer experience is also central to its growth strategy. As part of its Hero 2.0 initiative, Hero MotoCorp is revamping several of its sales outlets to enhance the customer experience and meet the growing demand for premium products. Furthermore, under its Premia initiative, Hero is expanding its premium showroom network to cater to the increasing demand for high-end two-wheelers.

Anand also expressed confidence in the continued growth of the domestic two-wheeler industry, driven by sustained demand across both rural and urban markets. He pointed to the Union Budget’s tax relief for middle-class earners as an important factor that could further bolster sales. “For individuals earning around ₹10-12 lakh, the expected tax savings of ₹40,000-50,000 could cover EMIs on a two-wheeler, supporting sector demand,” Anand noted, highlighting how government measures can help stimulate two-wheeler sales in the coming months. Hero MotoCorp’s optimistic forecast for the next fiscal year aligns with broader industry expectations of recovery in both rural and urban markets. The company’s strategic investments in premium products and EVs, along with a focus on customer service, positions it well to capture the increasing demand for both traditional and electric two-wheelers. With a robust product pipeline and expanding footprint, Hero MotoCorp is set to continue its dominance in the two-wheeler market.

Steel Authority of India Suspends 29 Officials After Alleged Rs. 800 Crore Scandal

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February 17, 2025

India SAIL Steel Boosts Defence Manufacturing Push — RINL Picks SAIL Executive For Operations Leadership

Steel Authority of India Suspends 29 Officials After Alleged Rs. 800 Crore Scandal

Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), one of the country’s leading Maharatna PSUs, is once again making headlines—but this time, not for any success stories. The focus is on Rajeev Bhatia, the General Manager who blew the whistle on an alleged Rs. 800 crore scam. Unfortunately for Bhatia, his role in exposing this financial misconduct has cost him dearly, as the company has effectively ended his career.

In January 2024, Bhatia exposed a major scam, prompting an investigation by the Ministry of Steel. The allegations centered around discrepancies in commercial dealings, policy manipulations favoring certain companies, and missed opportunities for maximizing profits. In response, the Ministry of Steel ordered the suspension of 29 officials, including two high-ranking directors: V.S. Chakravarthy, Director (Commercial), and A.K. Tulsiani, Director (Finance) of SAIL. The suspensions came as part of a larger probe into alleged corruption, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) directed to investigate the dealings between SAIL and companies like Venkatesh Infra Projects and Avon Steel Industries. The charges against the officials were serious, alleging that their actions led to financial losses and undermined due diligence in SAIL’s dealings.

However, despite these serious allegations, the story took an unexpected turn in June 2024 when SAIL decided to revoke the suspensions of the 29 officials, including the three directors. The decision has raised eyebrows, with many speculating that the reinstatement was influenced by the clout the officials held within the company. The case is still under investigation by the CBI, but the reversal of the suspensions has left many questioning the accountability of the system. For Rajeev Bhatia, the whistleblower who uncovered the scandal, the outcome has been devastating. Although his actions led to the investigation, the consequences have been severe. Reports suggest that Bhatia has faced retaliation for his role in exposing the corruption, with his career at SAIL coming to an abrupt halt.

This situation raises important questions about the treatment of whistleblowers and the systemic issues within large organizations like SAIL. As the CBI continues to investigate the alleged financial misconduct, it remains to be seen whether any meaningful accountability will be enforced, or if the powerful individuals involved will go unpunished, while those like Bhatia are left to face the repercussions.

Aster Medcity Expands with New Tower and Additional 100 Beds to Meet Growing Healthcare Demands

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February 17, 2025

Aster Medcity Expands with New Tower and Additional 100 Beds to Meet Growing Healthcare Demands

The healthcare sector in Kerala, Aster Medcity has inaugurated its fourth tower, a state-of-the-art facility spanning 1 lakh square feet and adding 100 beds to meet the growing demand for healthcare services in the region. This expansion coincides with the hospital’s 10th anniversary celebrations, further solidifying its role in enhancing the state’s medical infrastructure and reputation.

The new tower at Aster Medcity is a comprehensive facility designed to provide advanced medical care. It includes the Aster Institute of Cardiac Sciences, Aster Aesthetics, and Aster Dermatology, housing 25 consultation rooms dedicated to cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. The hospital’s expansion underscores its commitment to catering to the diverse and increasing healthcare needs of both local and international patients. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Kerala’s State Industries Minister, P. Rajeeve, who acknowledged the state’s growing prominence as a hub for medical tourism. He credited the success of public-private sector partnerships, with Aster Medcity playing a pivotal role in elevating Kerala’s healthcare infrastructure to world-class standards.

In a heartwarming gesture, Manoj M.G, a former patient who underwent a wrist replantation surgery at Aster Medcity, had the honour of inaugurating the renovated Aster Aesthetics department. Manoj’s successful surgery was performed by the hospital’s expert Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic team after his wrist was severed in a traumatic accident. His involvement in the event highlights the hospital’s focus on not just advanced medical procedures, but also on the holistic recovery and well-being of its patients. Azad Moopen, the Founder and Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, emphasised the hospital’s unwavering commitment to delivering accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare. He also noted the importance of adapting to rapid advancements in medical innovation, ensuring that Aster Medcity remains at the forefront of cutting-edge medical technologies and services. One of the major highlights of Aster Medcity’s growth is the introduction of its health initiative “Take Charge,” which encourages the community to adopt healthier lifestyles and reduce their dependency on hospital care.

This initiative is aligned with the hospital’s long-term vision of fostering preventative healthcare while continuing to provide top-notch medical services when needed. Since its establishment, Aster Medcity has been a key player in enhancing Kerala’s medical tourism industry. Its 40-acre waterfront campus has attracted patients from across the globe, drawn not only by the hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities but also by its focus on high-precision medical technologies. Aster Medcity is also known for introducing robotic surgery to the region, becoming the first facility in Kerala to offer high-precision robotic surgeries using the da Vinci system. The hospital has performed over 5,000 robotic-assisted surgeries through its Aster Minimal Access Robotic Surgery (MARS) programme, making it a leader in minimally invasive surgery. The addition of the new tower and expanded services is a testament to Aster Medcity’s ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare accessibility in Kerala, while also contributing significantly to the region’s reputation as a global medical tourism destination. With its 10th anniversary marking a decade of progress, Aster Medcity is well-poised to continue leading the charge in healthcare innovation and patient care in the years to come.

Telangana Government Fights Ownership Battle Over Rs 60,000 Crore Land

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February 17, 2025

Telangana Government Fights Ownership Battle Over Rs 60,000 Crore Land

The Telangana government has taken immediate action to protect approximately 1,200 acres of government land, valued at an estimated Rs 60,000 crore, in Hyderabad. Located in high-demand areas such as Hafeezpet, Madhapur, and Kondapur, this land is at the centre of an intense legal battle involving private firms and individuals who claim ownership. The Rangareddy district administration, tasked with safeguarding the land, is working to prevent unauthorised registration of these properties, following specific directives from the Telangana High Court.

The district collector has recently issued a revised prohibition list to the registration and stamps department, asking them to halt the registration of disputed land. This move comes after the High Court’s instructions, which had earlier ordered the state to take necessary measures to protect the land from unlawful transactions. This list revision, the first of its kind in nearly a decade, specifically targets land in survey numbers 55, 66, 67, 74 to 80, 100, 103, 104, 151, 157, and 167, located in Hafeezpet. In an interview with the media, Rangareddy district collector C Narayana Reddy confirmed that the revised list of survey numbers had been sent to the registration department in compliance with the High Court’s directives. The court had previously emphasised the importance of following procedures to prevent the registration of these disputed properties. The district administration had attempted similar measures in 2013 and 2016, but the efforts were occasionally bypassed due to procedural lapses, allowing certain registrations to go through.

One of the most contentious areas of this dispute concerns survey numbers 77 to 80. Advocate P Pratap, representing Trinity Infra, a company involved in the legal battle, argued that the district collector had violated High Court orders by submitting the list of survey numbers, particularly 77 to 80, for prohibition. These numbers have been a source of continuous litigation for years, with complex issues surrounding their ownership. Survey number 80, in particular, has become a focal point due to an ongoing status quo order issued by the Supreme Court. The government, the state waqf board, and Trinity Infra are all parties in the legal proceedings concerning this land. Despite the status of these lands as government property, many individuals and companies have laid claim to them, and, in some cases, encroached on the land.

For instance, although survey number 80 is officially recorded as 484 acres of government land, only 50 acres remain vacant, with various structures built without proper authorisation on the remaining land. The dispute over these lands is not new; survey numbers 77 to 80 are part of the Khursheed Jah Paigah land, a subject of legal contention for several decades. The situation in Hafeezpet adds another layer of complexity. A private firm recently succeeded in removing its survey number from the prohibition list, allowing registration to proceed. However, the government has now re-imposed restrictions on that land, effectively halting the registration process once again.

The land in question, spanning over several survey numbers, includes large parcels, some of which have already been allocated to government agencies such as municipal and energy departments. Despite these efforts, the ownership of the land remains highly contested, with both private and public entities continuing to battle for control. This land dispute highlights the challenges faced by the Telangana government in protecting valuable public assets from illegal claims and encroachment. The government’s ongoing efforts to halt registration of disputed properties are essential in ensuring that public land remains protected and used for its intended purpose. However, the resolution of this issue will require continuous legal intervention and a clear policy to safeguard public land from future encroachment.

Trump’s Steel Tariffs a ‘Negative’ Move for Both UK and US, Says Business Secretary

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February 17, 2025

Trump’s Steel Tariffs a ‘Negative’ Move for Both UK and US, Says Business Secretary

UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has warned that President Trump’s 25% tariffs on steel imports, set to come into effect in March, could have damaging consequences for both the UK and the US. Speaking to the BBC, Reynolds emphasized the mutual interest in securing an exemption from the tariffs, which could hurt both nations’ economies.

Reynolds highlighted the unique trading relationship between the UK and the US, noting that the UK exports specialized steel products, such as Navy submarine casings made in Sheffield, which are crucial to the US. He stressed that imposing tariffs on UK steel would not only harm the UK economy but would also increase costs for US taxpayers, as these specialized materials are vital for US industries. The UK government has already pledged up to £2.5bn to support the country’s steel industry, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including job losses and competition from cheap imports. Reynolds noted that while the US government has insisted there would be “no exceptions or exemptions” to the tariffs, he has engaged in “constructive conversations” with officials in the Trump administration, acknowledging the UK’s different trading position from the EU or China.

The UK steel industry, which accounts for about 10% of British steel exports to the US, is concerned that the tariffs will not only limit exports but could also lead to an influx of cheap steel from other countries, potentially undercutting the UK’s domestic steelmakers. UK Steel, the body representing the industry, called the tariffs a “devastating blow” to the sector, which contributes £400m annually to UK-US trade. While the UK is not a major supplier of steel to the US, the government’s plan to mitigate the impact of tariffs includes encouraging greater use of UK-made steel in domestic infrastructure projects and supporting the adoption of more sustainable manufacturing technologies, such as electric arc furnaces, which are less energy-intensive than traditional blast furnaces.

Reynolds acknowledged that the transition to new technologies would lead to a reduction in headcount in some areas, but stressed that increasing demand for UK steel could help offset some of the job losses. He added that the government’s consultation on a new “Plan for Steel” would address long-term issues in the sector, including the impact of cheap imports and rising energy costs. Meanwhile, the GMB union welcomed the government’s support but warned that the steel industry still faces significant uncertainty, with the threat of retaliatory tariffs and increasing competition from countries with more favorable business conditions. Gareth Stace, director-general of UK Steel, expressed hope that a robust steel strategy could reverse the sector’s decline, particularly as the UK faces rising competition from imports. The UK government is also preparing for potential retaliatory tariffs and is working with stakeholders to develop a comprehensive steel strategy, set to be launched in the spring. Despite the challenges, Reynolds remained optimistic about the UK’s ability to navigate the situation and secure a favorable outcome for both steelworkers and the wider economy.

SAIL to Invest $800 Million in New Rail Mill to Boost Production Capacity

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February 17, 2025

SAIL to Invest $800 Million in New Rail Mill to Boost Production Capacity

India’s infrastructure development, Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) has announced an investment of $800 million in a new rail mill. Despite the absence of confirmed long-term orders from its largest buyer, Indian Railways, SAIL’s Chairman, Amarendu Prakash, affirmed that the company remains committed to expanding its production capacity, anticipating significant demand from the domestic rail sector.

Speaking at the recent Global Business Summit (GBS) in New Delhi, Prakash expressed his firm belief in the continued growth of the Indian Railways, driven by the government’s growth-oriented policies. “Last week, we decided to invest $800 million in a rail mill because I am confident that railways will continue to grow and will have to buy from us,” Prakash said. “This kind of decision is possible when we have clarity on policies that support growth,” he added, reflecting the company’s optimism for the future of India’s railway system. SAIL has been working closely with Indian Railways for the past seven years, trying to gauge the procurement needs of the national carrier. However, despite extensive discussions, no long-term purchase commitments have been made by Indian Railways. This uncertainty has not deterred SAIL, though. The company is betting on sustained infrastructure expansion and growing domestic rail demand, positioning itself to meet future requirements in an ever-expanding market.

At present, SAIL manufactures rail products at its Bhilai Steel Plant in Chhattisgarh, and produces forged wheels at its Durgapur Steel Plant in West Bengal. However, the new rail mill, which will be developed with the $800 million investment, will significantly enhance the company’s production capacity. This new facility will allow SAIL to cater to anticipated growth in the railway sector and other infrastructure-related demands in the coming years. The investment comes at a time when the Indian government is focusing heavily on infrastructure development, including railway expansion, which remains a critical part of the country’s transport system. With railways playing a vital role in connecting the country and facilitating the movement of goods and passengers, the demand for steel products, such as rails and wheels, is expected to rise in line with the government’s infrastructure push.

Despite the current uncertainty in procurement commitments from Indian Railways, SAIL’s decision to move ahead with the new rail mill reflects a long-term strategy. The company appears confident that, even without confirmed orders, the railway sector’s need for new and upgraded rail infrastructure will eventually materialise, and SAIL is positioning itself as a key player in meeting this future demand. For SAIL, the $800 million investment in the rail mill is not just about expanding its production capabilities—it is also a statement of confidence in India’s economic trajectory and the government’s vision for infrastructure development. The company is clearly banking on the continued expansion of the Indian Railways and broader infrastructure projects, both of which are likely to generate substantial demand for its steel products in the years ahead. SAIL’s commitment to investing in a new rail mill, despite the current procurement uncertainties, underscores its confidence in the future of India’s railway system and infrastructure sector. The new facility will enhance the company’s ability to meet the growing demand for steel products, ultimately supporting the nation’s long-term infrastructure growth ambitions. As India continues to push ahead with infrastructure expansion, companies like SAIL are positioning themselves to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the country’s transport and construction sectors.

Telangana Launches LiDAR Survey for ‘One Map Hyderabad’ Project to Enhance Urban Planning

Hyderabad

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February 17, 2025

Telangana Launches LiDAR Survey for ‘One Map Hyderabad’ Project to Enhance Urban Planning

The Telangana government has officially launched a highly ambitious project designed to consolidate all critical infrastructure data of Hyderabad into a single platform, marking a significant step forward in urban development and planning. The ‘One Map Hyderabad’ initiative will leverage cutting-edge LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology to create a comprehensive map of the city, capturing vital information related to the road network, water supply, electricity, sewage, fire services, and traffic police operations.

The decision to undertake this project was driven by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, who has directed that a LiDAR survey be conducted across the entire GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) area and the surrounding regions up to the Outer Ring Road (ORR). This survey will span approximately 2,050 square kilometres and is set to play a key role in improving Hyderabad’s infrastructure, enhancing urban planning efforts, and better managing disaster response in the city. LiDAR technology works by emitting light pulses and measuring the time it takes for them to return, creating precise, three-dimensional data about the Earth’s surface. It’s particularly useful in capturing detailed topographical information, which is essential for accurate urban development. The LiDAR survey will provide a high-resolution map, offering insights into the city’s infrastructure with a level of detail that was not previously possible.

The survey is expected to be completed in phases, with the GHMC area targeted for completion within the next six months. Work on the ORR area is slated to be finished by the end of the year. The municipal administration and urban development department are currently finalising the tendering process, and officials anticipate that the survey will soon be underway. While drones were initially considered as a tool for surveying, the Telangana government opted for LiDAR technology due to its superior accuracy and precision, despite the slightly higher cost. The LiDAR survey will provide detailed insights, particularly in the rapidly growing areas outside the GHMC and within the ORR. These growing areas often experience infrastructure gaps that the government hopes to address through more informed planning and resource allocation.

In addition to its impact on urban planning, the LiDAR survey will assist the GHMC in property assessments. As part of a broader initiative, the GHMC has already begun a drone-based aerial GIS survey, covering about 625 square kilometres, to identify unassessed and underassessed properties. By offering more precision, the LiDAR survey will further enhance these efforts, ensuring that all properties are accurately mapped and accounted for. The future vision for the ‘One Map Hyderabad’ project includes the development of a unified digital platform accessible to both citizens and government agencies. A mobile app will be launched, providing real-time access to the city’s infrastructure data, which will play a pivotal role in enhancing services such as waste collection, emergency response, and disaster management.

Moreover, the success of this survey can have far-reaching implications for Hyderabad’s urban growth. The data generated through LiDAR will help identify critical infrastructure gaps, optimise resource distribution, and improve the quality of services available to citizens. The ‘One Map Hyderabad’ project is poised to not only transform the way the city’s infrastructure is managed but also make Hyderabad a model of modern, data-driven urban development. The LiDAR survey for ‘One Map Hyderabad’ is an important milestone in the city’s journey towards becoming a smarter, more connected urban centre. With improved data accuracy and better planning, Hyderabad is set to offer its citizens enhanced living standards and services, while simultaneously addressing the infrastructure challenges posed by rapid urbanisation.

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