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India Unmoved by Trump’s Steel Tariffs and Economic Moves

February 11, 2025

India Unmoved by Trump’s Steel Tariffs and Economic Moves

As President Donald Trump ramps up his protectionist agenda with a sweeping 25% tariff on all steel and aluminium imports into the U.S., India’s response has been one of calculated silence. This latest trade move by the U.S. President, announced just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Washington, adds to a series of previous shocks to India’s economic interests.

Despite the significant impact of these measures on global trade, the Indian government has remained largely unperturbed in its public statements, offering muted reactions to the escalating tensions. In his announcement, Trump emphasized that there would be “no exemptions” to the tariffs, effective from March 4, reinforcing his broader vision of revitalizing U.S. industries. “It’s time for our great industries to come back to America…this is the first of many,” Trump declared, implying further tariffs may be on the horizon. The implications of these moves are far-reaching, especially for countries that rely on the U.S. market, including India, which has a modest share of the U.S. steel import market. Union Steel Secretary Sandeep Poundrik responded with a composed stance, asserting that India’s exports of steel to the U.S. were negligible, amounting to just 95,000 tonnes last year—out of India’s total steel production of 145 million tonnes.

“So, how does it matter if you are not able to export 95,000 tonnes?” Poundrik quipped during an event hosted by the Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry. While this reflects India’s relatively low dependency on the U.S. for steel exports, there are potential concerns about broader trade repercussions, especially if other nations follow the U.S. lead with their own protectionist measures. The Indian steel sector has faced challenges in recent years, with increased competition and dampened pricing due to high steel imports into India. Experts, such as Hui Ting Sim, AVP at Moody’s Ratings, warn that the tariff increase will heighten competition in global steel markets and complicate the landscape for Indian producers. This, coupled with potential trade restrictions in other countries, could further undermine the profitability of India’s steel manufacturers.

India’s government, however, has yet to offer an official response to the U.S. decision to revoke India’s waiver for developing the Chabahar port in Iran, a key part of New Delhi’s international trade strategy. Additionally, Trump’s threats to impose 100% tariffs on BRICS nations if they attempt to sideline the U.S. dollar have remained unaddressed. India’s diplomatic silence also extends to the U.S.’s withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and World Health Organization (WHO), with no official statements on the potential loss of U.S. funding for health and renewable energy projects. This cautious approach by the Indian government stands in stark contrast to Trump’s aggressive economic posture, leaving industry experts to speculate on India’s future economic strategies and its evolving relationship with the U.S. in the midst of these growing tensions.

Sustainable Cement and Concrete Centre Opens at MPI

Homes and buildings

February 11, 2025

Sustainable Cement and Concrete Centre Opens at MPI

The Materials Processing Institute (MPI) has made a pioneering move to support the UK construction industry’s journey towards decarbonisation with the opening of its £1 million Sustainable Cement and Concrete Centre (SCCC). The facility, set to open later this month, marks a critical milestone in the effort to reduce carbon emissions in the cement and concrete sector.

Located at MPI’s Advanced Materials Characterisation Centre, the SCCC will be a hub for cutting-edge research focused on the development of low-carbon cement and concrete formulations. It will explore innovative methods such as incorporating Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) slags into aggregate and clinker production, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional materials. This initiative is in line with the UK’s broader sustainability goals and aims to foster the creation of construction materials that have a lower environmental impact. The centre will also offer expert consultancy services, enabling clients to push the boundaries of innovation in the sector. The comprehensive services range from material development and testing to project management, guiding clients through the entire process from initial concept to pilot-stage production.

MPI recently hosted a special event for the Cement Standards and Technical Group of the Mineral Products Association (MPA), where delegates were given a sneak peek into the state-of-the-art facility. The advanced capabilities of the centre were demonstrated, showcasing its potential to drive sustainability in the built environment. Terry Walsh, CEO of MPI, emphasized the importance of the SCCC, stating, “This facility plays a pivotal role in supporting the UK construction industry’s journey to net-zero. Cement and concrete form the backbone of our built environment, and decarbonising them can significantly reduce emissions across the sector.”

Roger Griffiths, Manager – Innovation Projects at the MPA, added, “MPI’s investment in this facility will help strengthen the UK’s leadership in sustainable construction, fostering further research and testing in cement and concrete.” Cement and concrete contribute over £18 billion to the UK’s GDP annually and support approximately 3.5 million jobs, underscoring their importance to the economy. With over 90 million tonnes used each year, decarbonising this sector represents a major opportunity to reduce emissions and ensure the long-term sustainability of infrastructure and housing. The SCCC forms a key part of the EconoMISER programme, led by the Foundation Industries Sustainability Consortium (FISC), which aims to accelerate the decarbonisation of the UK’s foundation industries. It is another step towards establishing MPI as a national leader in research and innovation, continuing its track record of driving transformational change in the sector.

Baldota Group’s Rs 54,000 Cr Steel Project to Transform Koppal

Homes and buildings

February 11, 2025

Baldota Group’s Rs 54,000 Cr Steel Project to Transform Koppal

In a monumental step that is poised to reshape the steel industry in India, the Karnataka-based Baldota Group has announced plans to establish a mega steel plant in Koppal, with a staggering investment of Rs 54,000 crore. The integrated plant, set to have an annual production capacity of 10.50 million tonnes, is set to become one of the largest steel manufacturing facilities in the region, positioning Karnataka as a significant player in India’s steel sector.

The announcement was made at the Global Investors’ Meet on February 11, with an MoU signed to formalise the project. Baldota Group, under its new entity Baldota Steel and Power Limited (BSPL), envisions the plant as a game-changer that will not only drive steel production but also generate massive employment opportunities. The project is expected to create around 15,000 direct and indirect jobs, providing a significant boost to local employment in Koppal, one of the most economically challenged districts in Karnataka. Rahul Kumar N Baldota, the Joint Managing Director of the Baldota Group, emphasised the long-term impact of the plant on both the state’s economy and the steel industry.

“The groundbreaking ceremony for the plant will take place next month, with investment being deployed in phases. We anticipate the facility will take around 2.5 to 3 years to become fully operational,” he said. The plant will source its iron ore from nearby deposits, located within a 50-kilometre radius, ensuring cost-effective transportation to the site. According to government sources, the project aligns with the state’s push to bolster infrastructure development, particularly in the steel sector, which will see increasing demand due to the expansion of rail and road infrastructure. Rahul Kumar Baldota also pointed out the growing national demand for steel, saying, “The government’s focus on infrastructure development, as highlighted in the recent budget, will lead to a huge surge in steel requirements across various sectors.” He added that Baldota Group aims to position itself as a national leader in the industry, with the Koppal project serving as a cornerstone in Karnataka’s industrial transformation.

Industry experts have echoed these sentiments. J Crasta, former President of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), stated, “Steel demand is set to skyrocket in the coming years, and this project is well-timed to meet that need.” The Rs 54,000 crore investment signifies Baldota Group’s commitment to sustainable growth and national economic development. Once operational, the Koppal steel plant will not only contribute significantly to the state’s industrial expansion but also serve as a model for future large-scale manufacturing projects in India.

Haryana RERA Directs Builder to Refund Rs 6 Lakh to Buyer for Unfulfilled Commitments

Homes and buildings

February 11, 2025

Haryana RERA Directs Builder to Refund Rs 6 Lakh to Buyer for Unfulfilled Commitments

The Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (H-RERA) has instructed a developer to refund Rs 6 lakh to a homebuyer, Bharat Gupta, and his wife Poonam, for failing to meet their contractual obligations. The decision comes after the buyers’ prolonged struggle to get their money back, highlighting critical consumer protection issues in the real estate sector. In April 2019, Bharat and Poonam Gupta booked a 2BHK flat in the Mahira Homes project located in Sector 103, Gurugram, paying an initial upfront fee of Rs 1.15 lakh. The project, like many others, had attracted buyers with promises of affordable housing. After receiving an allotment letter confirming a flat in Tower G of Mahira Homes, the couple paid an additional Rs 4.7 lakh, bringing their total payment to Rs 5.88 lakh.

However, the developer did not issue a receipt for the extra payment, raising concerns for the buyers about transparency. Despite this, the developer continued to demand further payments, even though they had not yet executed a formal builder-buyer agreement. The couple sought to apply for a home loan but was unable to do so, as the developer cited the lack of an environmental clearance certificate for the project. In January 2020, the Guptas claimed that Mahira Homes unilaterally cancelled their flat booking, and they were left with no recourse. After multiple attempts to get a refund from the developer failed, the couple approached H-RERA in January 2024, seeking justice. H-RERA investigated the case and found that the builder had violated several provisions under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. The act prohibits builders from collecting more than 10% of the total sale price of a property before executing a formal sale agreement. In this case, Mahira Homes had collected a substantial amount without providing the necessary documentation or fulfilling its obligations.

After several hearings in 2024, including on January 17 and February 21, the authority struck off the developer’s defence and ruled in favour of the homebuyers. The builder, Mahira Homes, was ordered to refund the full amount of Rs 5.88 lakh along with annual interest of 11% for the delayed payment. The authority also noted that the Mahira Homes project had come under regulatory scrutiny. The developer had been blacklisted in May 2022 for multiple violations, and the project’s registration was revoked in March 2024, which prevented the builder from selling any unsold units. This ruling is a notable example of how regulatory bodies like H-RERA are protecting consumers’ rights in the real estate sector. Despite the builder’s failure to meet commitments, the buyers were able to receive justice thanks to the intervention of H-RERA. The couple has been granted a period of 90 days to receive their refund; if the developer fails to comply, further legal action will be initiated.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, which aims to bring transparency and accountability to the real estate sector. It also highlights the need for buyers to be vigilant when making payments for real estate projects, ensuring that they receive formal agreements and documentation before parting with their money. The decision by H-RERA also shines a light on the need for stricter enforcement of regulations to protect homebuyers, especially in a market where developers often fail to meet their commitments. As more homebuyers are empowered to take action through platforms like H-RERA, it could signal a shift toward more accountability in the real estate industry. For the Guptas, this ruling offers some closure after a prolonged battle with the developer, but for many others, it highlights the importance of being well-informed about their rights in the real estate market.

UltraTech Increases Grinding Capacity by 0.6 MTPA in West Bengal

Homes and buildings

February 11, 2025

UltraTech Cement Margins Face Input Cost Pressure

UltraTech Increases Grinding Capacity by 0.6 MTPA in West Bengal

UltraTech Cement has taken a strategic step to enhance its cement production capabilities by expanding its grinding capacity at the Sonar Bangla facility in West Bengal by 0.6 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). This expansion is designed to address the rising demand for composite cement in the eastern region, a key market for the company, while also improving UltraTech’s overall blended cement ratio.

With the completion of this capacity expansion, UltraTech’s total domestic grey cement manufacturing capacity now stands at an impressive 166.31 MTPA. Additionally, the company has broadened its international footprint by increasing its global cement production capacity by 5.4 MTPA. As a result, UltraTech’s total cement production capacity across both domestic and overseas markets has risen to 171.71 MTPA, further cementing its position as a global leader in the cement industry.

This expansion aligns with UltraTech Cement’s long-term strategy of bolstering production capabilities and operational efficiency. The move is part of the company’s broader plan to meet growing construction demand both in India and globally, supporting its continued market leadership. The enhanced production capacity is expected to enable UltraTech to better serve the increasing requirements for high-quality cement, ensuring a steady supply to its customer base while driving sustainable growth in the years to come.

Contractors in Maharashtra to Take Legal Action Over Unpaid Government Dues

Homes and buildings

February 11, 2025

Contractors in Maharashtra to Take Legal Action Over Unpaid Government Dues

Maharashtra, contractors are intensifying their protests against the state government’s failure to settle outstanding dues amounting to nearly Rs 1 lakh crore. The Builders Association of India (BAI) and the Maharashtra State Contractors Association (MSCA) have now threatened to pursue legal action as a last resort after months of non-payment for work already completed.

On Monday, both associations, along with other key groups like the Hot Mix Association, held a joint meeting where they announced plans to escalate their ongoing protest. Contractors have been demanding that the state clear the substantial dues owed for various public infrastructure projects, but despite several requests, the government has yet to take action.

Anil Sonawane, State Chairman of the Builders Association of India, expressed deep frustration over the situation. “We have no choice but to seek legal remedy, as the government has been unresponsive to our repeated requests,” Sonawane said. “The debts are mounting, and many of us have taken loans from banks to fund these projects. It has become increasingly difficult to survive without receiving payments.” The situation has reached a critical point, as contractors say they are unable to pay the salaries of the workers employed on these projects, adding further strain to an already struggling industry. Construction and infrastructure, which contribute significantly to Maharashtra’s economy, employ millions of workers, making this non-payment crisis even more severe for the state’s labour force.

Contractors across Maharashtra began an indefinite protest last week, halting work on government contracts in 35 districts due to the unpaid dues. These projects primarily involve the state Public Works Department (PWD), the Rural Development Department, and the Jan Jeevan Mission. Despite a firm ultimatum to the state government, contractors say no meetings or negotiations have been scheduled to address the issue. The cumulative dues of nearly Rs 1 lakh crore, spread across various state government departments, have been pending for months. Contractors claim that the state government has failed to make payments for work completed since July 2023. This non-payment has led to further resentment among contractors, especially when the government continues to fund new initiatives like the Ladki Bahin programme while disregarding long-overdue bills for completed projects.

Contractors and engineers have voiced concern that the government is prioritising newer schemes while ignoring the financial strain faced by those already working on government projects. The MSCA and the State Engineers Association (SEA) have now demanded that the government not issue any fresh contracts unless there are sufficient budgetary provisions to ensure timely payments. The ongoing crisis has placed the state’s construction sector under immense pressure. Maharashtra’s infrastructure development is vital to its overall economic health, and with contractors unable to continue their work, public projects are at risk of significant delays. For many contractors, the issue is more than just financial—it’s a matter of survival. Many businesses are struggling to stay afloat due to the backlog of payments, while workers on the ground are increasingly uncertain about their livelihoods. As contractors prepare to take legal action, they are hoping for a swift resolution before the protests cause even more disruption.

The situation highlights broader issues within Maharashtra’s construction sector, where delayed payments for public works have become a recurring problem. As legal action looms, contractors are urging the state government to take immediate steps to resolve the issue, providing some relief to an industry facing mounting pressure. With no resolution in sight, the situation remains tense. Contractors are preparing to escalate their protests further, leaving the state government with little room to manoeuvre. Legal action may become the next step, but the hope remains that the government will address the issue before it reaches that point, ensuring that the necessary payments are made to keep critical infrastructure projects on track. The outcome of this ongoing dispute will have significant implications not just for contractors, but for the entire infrastructure and construction sector in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Housing Societies Await Action on Single-Window System for Redevelopment Clearances

Homes and buildings

February 11, 2025

Maharashtra Housing Societies Await Action on Single-Window System for Redevelopment Clearances

Maharashtra, up to 10,000 cooperative housing societies, particularly in Pune, Mumbai, and Thane, are eagerly awaiting the implementation of the single-window clearance system for self-redevelopment of their properties. Despite a government resolution (GR) issued in 2019, which proposed the system to ease redevelopment processes, bureaucratic delays have left these societies frustrated and unable to move forward.

The single-window system, designed to simplify the complex and often tedious process of obtaining approvals from multiple government departments, was first proposed in a GR issued by the state housing department on September 13, 2019. The system was intended to facilitate the self-redevelopment of properties that are 30 years old or more, which apply primarily to older housing societies across the state. The Maharashtra State Cooperative Bank was designated as the nodal agency to implement the process, but to date, the system has not been fully realised.

Suhas Patwardhan, Chairman of the Maharashtra State Cooperative Federation, highlighted the frustrations faced by housing societies in major cities, including Pune and Mumbai, as they are eager to undertake redevelopment but are bogged down by the cumbersome process of securing clearances from various departments, such as property tax, electricity, and local collectors. “Of the state’s 1.25 lakh registered housing societies, around 50% are considering redevelopment options. According to discussions, 8,000-10,000 societies have shown interest, but they remain hesitant due to delays in obtaining the necessary clearances,” said Patwardhan. For many housing societies, waiting for approvals from multiple departments can take years, causing significant delays in redevelopment projects. This has left thousands of residents in older housing societies stuck in deteriorating conditions, while the demand for redevelopment and urban renewal continues to grow.

The Federation has taken proactive steps to address this issue by reaching out to the Maharashtra Chief Minister, urging him to implement the 2019 GR for the single-window system. “We hope the Chief Minister will meet our demand and pave the way for societies to take up self-redevelopment,” Patwardhan added. One of the key proposals under the system is a 4% subsidised loan to housing societies that opt for self-redevelopment, which would help make the process more affordable for communities. However, some residents, like Meena Raut from a 30-year-old society in Kothrud, are concerned that unless the government simplifies the rules and clears the bureaucratic bottlenecks, redevelopment will remain a distant dream. “The Chief Minister had announced the single-window system during his last term. He should now push to make it a reality,” Raut said. The single-window system is designed to streamline the redevelopment process. It includes a digital platform where developers and housing societies can submit their proposals online, following clear guidelines and regulations. Once submitted, the system automatically forwards proposals to the relevant departments for scrutiny and then informs the societies about any required corrections.

Once a proposal is re-submitted, developers or societies are notified about premiums, fees, and taxes to be paid. The entire process – from proposal submission to NOCs and final approvals – would be handled online, offering a faster, more transparent approach to the redevelopment of housing societies. Shreeprasad Parab, an expert director of the Maharashtra State Housing Federation, spoke on the anticipated benefits of the system: “The single-window system will ensure transparency and ease of doing business. It will also accelerate the development of cities, all while protecting citizens’ rights.” The single-window clearance system holds the potential to bring about significant change in Maharashtra’s urban redevelopment landscape. However, its realisation is long overdue, and housing societies are growing increasingly impatient. With thousands of residents living in ageing buildings, the demand for this reform is clear. As the government continues to delay, the residents of Maharashtra’s housing societies await action – hoping that the promises made in 2019 will finally be delivered.

Suraksha Group Secures UP-Rera Revalidation for Seven Stalled Housing Projects

Commercial

Homes and buildings

February 11, 2025

Suraksha Group Secures UP-Rera Revalidation for Seven Stalled Housing Projects

The Suraksha Group has secured crucial revalidation for the registrations of seven incomplete housing projects formerly managed by Jaiprakash Infratech Limited (JIL). This development has brought much-needed relief to homebuyers in Noida and Greater Noida, who have been waiting for years to receive possession of their homes. The revalidation, granted by the Uttar Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (UP-Rera), will allow these projects to resume construction and, importantly, enable homebuyers to apply for home loans from financial institutions.

Suraksha Group, a Mumbai-based real estate entity, took over Jaiprakash Infratech Limited (JIL) in June 2024 after a prolonged six-year court battle. JIL had been struggling with financial troubles and debt, which led to a halt in construction for several of its housing projects, leaving thousands of homebuyers in limbo. For homebuyers like Paramjeet Singh, whose family had invested in Jaypee Greens Kasa Isles, this takeover offered a glimmer of hope. The promise of resumed construction was eagerly anticipated, with work expected to start shortly after the acquisition. However, the road to recovery has not been smooth. Suraksha Group has faced challenges, including a lawsuit filed by disgruntled homebuyers of the Jaypee Wish Town project in December 2024, citing delays and the failure to infuse the ₹3,000 crore funding promised under the resolution plan. Yet, despite these tensions, the revalidation of the seven projects offers tangible progress.

The seven housing projects whose registration has been revalidated are:

Jaypee Greens Klassic – D
Jaypee Greens Kosmos – A (Phase II)
Jaypee Greens Kosmos – C
Jaypee Greens Kensington Boulevard Apartments
Jaypee Greens Kasa Isles
Jaypee Greens Krescent Homes
Pebble Court

According to Jash Panchamia, Executive Director of Jaypee Infratech Limited, many homebuyers were struggling to secure home loans due to the expired UP-Rera registration. The revalidation is expected to significantly ease these difficulties, enabling homebuyers to access financial support and continue with their investment plans. While the revalidation marks progress, not all homebuyers are satisfied. Ashish Mohan Gupta, president of the Jaypee Infratech Real Estate Allottees Welfare Society (JREAWS), expressed concerns about the limited time frame of the revalidation. For two of the seven projects, the registration has only been extended until December 31, 2025, which raises questions about the long-term impact on construction timelines. Gupta further highlighted the issues faced by homebuyers of the Jaypee Wish Town project, who filed a writ petition against Suraksha Group in December 2024. They claimed that the promised funds had not been mobilised and construction had not resumed as expected. Gupta emphasised that Suraksha must meet its financial commitments to ensure the projects are completed on time, or else the homebuyers would continue to face delays in getting their homes.

Suraksha Group has reassured the homebuyers that construction has already begun as per the resolution plan. A spokesperson from the group stated that work is ongoing, with 10,082 units spread across the seven projects whose registration has been revalidated. These units are expected to be delivered in phases, starting in December 2025, in line with the resolution plan. The revalidation also ensures that 90% of the funds collected from allottees will be used strictly for construction, with a cost audit to be conducted every three months. This commitment aims to reassure homebuyers that their investments are being utilised efficiently, with regular updates on progress to be provided. For the homebuyers who have waited for years, the revalidation of the seven projects represents a significant step towards the realisation of their dreams. However, it remains to be seen if Suraksha Group can meet its obligations and deliver the promised homes within the stipulated time. With ongoing challenges and legal action still looming, it is clear that the road ahead will require sustained effort and transparency to satisfy the thousands of homeowners still awaiting their properties. As construction resumes and the process of delivering these homes progresses, homebuyers will be watching closely to ensure that their trust in Suraksha Group is not misplaced.

Australian Steel Faces Tariff Risk as U.S. Policy Shifts

Homes and buildings

February 10, 2025

Australian Steel Faces Tariff Risk as U.S. Policy Shifts

Australia has ramped up diplomatic efforts to secure an exemption from U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports, arguing that its exports support thousands of high-paying American jobs and are integral to shared defence interests.

With Washington’s protectionist trade policies tightening, Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell has been making high-level representations to ensure continued access to the U.S. market. “Australian steel and aluminium are not only crucial to the U.S. supply chain but also sustain thousands of well-paid American jobs,” Farrell emphasised in a statement. He stressed the need for “free and fair trade” between the two nations, especially given their deepening strategic and military cooperation. Australia previously secured an exemption from Trump’s 2018 tariffs after lobbying efforts highlighted the importance of Australian metal exports to U.S. manufacturing and defence sectors. Now, with fresh tariff measures on the horizon, Canberra is again pushing for a similar deal. However, with no confirmed U.S. trade representative in place, formal negotiations are still in the early stages.

Australia is leveraging its strong military alliance with the U.S. under the AUKUS security pact as a key argument for exemption. The pact, which strengthens security ties between Australia, the U.K., and the U.S., includes Canberra’s commitment to invest billions in U.S. submarine production. Last week, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles met with his U.S. counterpart Pete Hegseth, with Australia making its first $500 million payment towards boosting American submarine industry capacity. This investment is part of a broader multi-billion-dollar agreement that will see Australia acquire U.S.-built nuclear-powered submarines in the coming years. The Australian government is now highlighting this defence cooperation to bolster its case against the tariffs, arguing that economic and military interests should be aligned rather than restricted by trade barriers.

For Australian steel and aluminium exporters, the stakes are high. The U.S. is a key market for premium-grade Australian metals, with exports valued at over $500 million annually. A tariff imposition would significantly erode competitiveness, forcing Australian producers to either absorb the cost or lose market share to other nations with lower trade restrictions. Market analysts warn that additional tariffs could disrupt supply chains, increase production costs for U.S. industries relying on Australian metals, and potentially strain diplomatic relations. With China’s dominance in global metal exports, Washington risks pushing an ally’s industry into alternative markets, weakening its Indo-Pacific economic strategy.

With Trump’s protectionist trade agenda gaining momentum, Australia faces an uncertain trade outlook. The next few weeks will be critical, as Canberra intensifies its lobbying efforts to prevent tariff barriers that could impact thousands of jobs and millions in trade revenues. As negotiations continue, the focus remains on whether the U.S. will acknowledge Australia’s strategic role as a key trade and defence partner—or whether economic nationalism will override geopolitical considerations.

Adani’s ACC Cement Plant Under NGT Scanner for Pollution Violations

Homes and buildings

February 10, 2025

Adani’s ACC Cement Plant Under NGT Scanner for Pollution Violations

A joint inspection by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has flagged serious environmental compliance gaps at the ACC Limited cement plant in Barmana, Himachal Pradesh, operated by the Adani Group. The findings highlight unabated dust emissions, inadequate pollution control mechanisms, and a failure to implement mandated green measures, raising significant concerns about air quality, industrial accountability, and the impact on local communities.

The inspection was carried out on 18th January by a committee comprising Bilaspur Subdivisional Magistrate (SDM) Abhishek Garg, Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) regional officer Pawan Sharma, and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) scientist Narender Sharma. Their report underscores the plant’s inability to contain clinker, ash, and cement dust, resulting in uncontrolled particulate matter dispersal, affecting the surrounding environment and communities. Among the critical issues noted was the absence of an effective dust containment system, despite previous directives from pollution control authorities. The plant had installed metal sheets and nets to mitigate dust spread near residential areas, but these were deemed insufficient in height and effectiveness. Additionally, the unit’s truck wheel washing system lacked a mechanism for oil and grease removal, raising concerns about water contamination and improper waste management.

Further, the plant has failed to develop a three-layer tree plantation system, a regulatory mandate designed to curb noise and air pollution from industrial operations. While the facility boasts 111 air pollution control devices, including 109 bag filters and two electrostatic precipitators, the persistence of air quality issues suggests operational inefficiencies and inadequate maintenance of these pollution control systems. The ACC cement plant has been at the receiving end of environmental penalties multiple times. In April 2022, the HPSPCB imposed an environmental compensation of ₹1.29 crore for air pollution violations and the discharge of untreated wastewater. Prior to that, in 2015, the NGT had levied a ₹50 lakh fine for similar violations. Despite these financial penalties, the plant continues to operate in a manner that raises environmental concerns.

The cement industry is one of India’s most resource-intensive and high-emission sectors, accounting for 7% of global CO₂ emissions. With air pollution already contributing to severe health risks across the country, the lack of strict enforcement of compliance norms in industrial operations like ACC’s Barmana facility further exacerbates the crisis. During the January inspection, the plant was operating at only 25% capacity due to an annual maintenance shutdown. As a result, the NGT has granted an additional eight weeks for a follow-up evaluation when the plant resumes full-scale operations. For local residents, however, time is running out. The persistent presence of airborne pollutants, the contamination of roads and water sources, and the lack of stringent accountability from industrial players continue to be pressing concerns. As regulatory bodies prepare for another assessment, the spotlight remains on whether the Adani Group will take tangible steps towards sustainable and compliant operations—or whether the issue will remain yet another case of industrial impunity in India’s rapidly growing infrastructure sector.

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