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Dalmia Bharat’s Q3 Profit Falls 75% Amid Cement Price Slump, Sees Growth Momentum Ahead

January 22, 2025

Dalmia Bharat’s Q3 Profit Falls 75% Amid Cement Price Slump, Sees Growth Momentum Ahead

Cement maker Dalmia Bharat reported a significant 75 percent decline in its profit after tax for the third quarter ending December 31, 2024, with the profit dropping to ₹66 crore from ₹266 crore in the same period last year. Revenue from operations also saw a decrease of 12 percent year-on-year, amounting to ₹3,181 crore compared to ₹3,604 crore in the previous year. The company faced a challenging environment with a sharp dip in cement prices.

Volume sales also experienced a slight 2 percent year-on-year decline, and the company’s EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) fell 34.5 percent year-over-year to ₹511 crore. Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director & CEO of Dalmia Bharat, expressed confidence that cement demand growth would regain momentum. “Our capacity expansion plans are on track, as we will reach 49.5 million tonnes (MnT) by the end of this year,” he said. Dharmender Tuteja, CFO of Dalmia Bharat, attributed the weaker-than-expected cement demand growth during Q3 to persistent softness in cement prices. However, he noted that cement demand was gaining traction, and the company had observed signs of optimism in the pricing trend.

Steel and Cement Cartels Hurt Infrastructure Gadkari Calls for Change

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January 22, 2025

Steel and Cement Cartels Hurt Infrastructure Gadkari Calls for Change

Union Minister for Road Transport Nitin Gadkari has highlighted the challenges posed by “cartels” in the steel and cement industries, which are essential for the country’s infrastructure development. Gadkari, speaking at the IECRP 2025 exhibition, stated that these industries are dominated by a few key players who control pricing and are detrimental to India’s infrastructure progress.

“Steel and cement industries are in the hands of a few people. They always decide the rates. Their cartelism is a big problem for the country,” Gadkari remarked, emphasizing the need for intervention. To address this issue, Gadkari has advocated for Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) as a viable alternative to steel and cement. He offered support to the FRP industry, which he believes can break the dominance of entrenched players. FRP can be utilized across various sectors, including infrastructure, aviation, shipping, road construction, and metro rail. However, Gadkari urged the FRP industry to reduce prices by 20-25 percent compared to steel and cement, making it more competitive and cost-effective.

He emphasized that the FRP industry must invest in research and development, especially in identifying the right raw materials and focusing on domestic production to ensure its success. “If you can reduce the rate by 20-25 percent, it can be a really good thing for the country,” Gadkari said, addressing the FRP industry participants. In his speech, Gadkari also expressed his ambitions for the country’s energy sector, aiming to bring down the cost of hydrogen production to USD 1 per kg, a move that could potentially transform India into a net exporter of energy. Additionally, he reiterated his goal of making India the largest global auto hub within the next five years, building on the country’s current position as the third-largest automotive producer.

Macquarie Upgrades Cement Sector Amid Recovery, Targeting 20% Gains

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January 22, 2025

Macquarie Upgrades Cement Sector Amid Recovery, Targeting 20% Gains

Macquarie has issued a positive outlook for India’s cement sector, forecasting a demand recovery and price hikes that will likely boost margin expansion in the second half of calendar year 2024 (2H CY24). The brokerage expects these factors, combined with an emphasis on cost management and capacity consolidation, to strengthen the industry’s medium-term earnings profile. In a recent report, Macquarie upgraded its stance on several leading cement stocks, signalling strong growth potential.

Stock Upgrades and Target Prices

Macquarie raised its target price for Ultratech Cement to ₹11,868, suggesting a potential upside of 12% from Monday’s closing price. The stock rose by over 3 percent on Tuesday, peaking at ₹10,950. Ambuja Cements also received an upgrade, with a target price set at ₹618, offering a more than 15 percent upside from its previous closing price. The stock gained 2.6 percent on Tuesday, touching an intraday high of ₹548.5. For ACC Ltd, Macquarie set a target price of ₹2,425, indicating a potential upside of over 20 percent from its prior close. ACC’s shares increased by 2.5 percent on Tuesday, reaching ₹2,061 on the BSE. All three cement stocks were upgraded to an “Outperform” rating, reflecting Macquarie’s confidence in their ability to outperform the broader market in the coming months.

Ramco Cement and Shree Cement Outlooks

However, the brokerage downgraded Ramco Cement to “Underperform,” setting a target price of ₹785, a potential downside of 12 percent from Monday’s closing level. The downgrade is attributed to concerns about Ramco Cement’s near-term performance, despite the overall positive outlook for the industry. On Shree Cement, Macquarie maintained a “Neutral” rating, with a target price of ₹25,710, indicating a modest upside of over 2% from the previous close. This more cautious stance reflects the current market conditions and the stock’s recent performance.

Sector Outlook

Macquarie’s report underscores the positive prospects for the cement sector, citing factors such as the recovery in demand, ongoing cost efficiency measures, and the consolidation of production capacities. These developments are expected to support margin growth and foster earnings improvements over the medium term. The brokerage’s bullish stance on key cement stocks suggests confidence in their ability to weather market challenges and benefit from the anticipated industry tailwinds.

Dhanbad to Get Major Upgrade with Six-Lane Bypass Extension and Elevated Road

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January 22, 2025

Dhanbad to Get Major Upgrade with Six-Lane Bypass Extension and Elevated Road

Dhanbad, a key industrial hub in Jharkhand, is set to witness significant improvements in its road infrastructure with the announcement of a six-lane bypass extension and elevated road along a 20-km stretch of National Highway 19 (NH-19), connecting Govindpur to Nirsa. This ambitious project, aimed at reducing congestion in these densely populated areas, promises to provide smoother traffic flow and better connectivity across the region.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, unveiled the plan in a recent post on X, noting that the project will be a game-changer for transportation in Dhanbad. The total investment for the project is estimated at Rs 1,130.54 crore, a considerable sum that highlights the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in Jharkhand.

The stretch of NH-19 between Govindpur and Nirsa is notorious for traffic jams, particularly in the heavily populated areas of Govindpur. The introduction of a six-lane bypass and elevated road will allow vehicles to bypass the crowded localities, resulting in faster and more efficient travel. This is expected to reduce travel time significantly and ease the movement of goods and people in the region, which is vital for the area’s economic growth. As part of the larger upgrade to NH-19, also known as GT Road and NH-02, the new infrastructure will cater to the growing traffic demands of the area. Dhanbad, known for its coal mines and industrial centres, has long struggled with inadequate transportation options, and this development is seen as a step towards addressing these issues. The Rs 1,130 crore investment in the Dhanbad-Nirsa bypass is part of a broader effort to boost infrastructure across Jharkhand. Gadkari’s announcement follows the laying of foundations for several highway projects in the state worth Rs 2,500 crore in March 2024. These projects are expected to have a significant positive impact on the region’s connectivity, facilitating smoother travel between Jharkhand and neighbouring West Bengal, as well as enhancing the overall economic potential of the area.

State BJP president, Babulal Marandi, expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nitin Gadkari for their role in securing these projects for Jharkhand. Marandi pointed out that the new flyover and bypass would be especially beneficial for the people of Koylanchal, a region historically dependent on the coal mining industry. By improving road access, the project will make commuting easier and safer, fostering economic growth and better living standards for local communities. Dhanbad is a vital city for Jharkhand’s economy, being home to several coal mines, industries, and educational institutions. However, its infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the growing demands of its population and the surrounding industrial areas. The new flyover and bypass will address these challenges, creating a modern, well-connected transportation network that can support both commercial and residential growth. Moreover, improved road connectivity will make it easier for businesses to transport goods, boosting trade and industry in Dhanbad and the surrounding regions. This project aligns with the government’s focus on enhancing India’s transportation infrastructure to drive economic growth and reduce bottlenecks that hinder productivity.

The new flyover and bypass are being viewed as key projects for the future of Dhanbad and the larger Jharkhand region. According to Gadkari, the project is vital not only for alleviating traffic congestion but also for fostering the region’s development in terms of both industry and connectivity. He stated that once completed, the six-lane road will provide an essential route for faster travel between Dhanbad, Ranchi, and other important industrial hubs in Jharkhand. The completion of this project will enhance the region’s role as an industrial powerhouse while simultaneously improving the daily lives of its residents. With work set to begin soon, local officials are optimistic that the project will make Dhanbad a more accessible and prosperous region in the years to come. The Dhanbad-Nirsa six-lane bypass and elevated road project marks an important step in the development of the region’s infrastructure. With the backing of Nitin Gadkari and the central government, the project will not only ease traffic congestion but also support Dhanbad’s industrial and economic growth. As the construction progresses, residents and businesses alike can look forward to a smoother, faster, and more efficient transportation network that will transform the way they travel and conduct business.

New Flyover to Ease Traffic at Kumarichantha Junction on NH 66

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January 22, 2025

New Flyover to Ease Traffic at Kumarichantha Junction on NH 66

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has started the construction of a new flyover at the highly congested Kumarichantha Junction on National Highway 66 (NH 66), between Kazhakkoottam and Kovalam. The move comes in response to growing concerns over traffic jams and frequent accidents at this crucial junction. With an estimated cost of Rs 22 crore, this 800-metre-long flyover aims to significantly ease traffic congestion and enhance road safety in the area.

Kumarichantha Junction has long been a notorious hotspot for traffic bottlenecks, with accidents occurring regularly due to the intersection of high-volume traffic. The flyover project is expected to provide much-needed relief, helping vehicles move smoothly without the need to navigate through the junction. NHAI’s Thiruvananthapuram Project Director, Debaprasad Sahoo, highlighted the necessity of the flyover, stating that the project was designed specifically to address the traffic-related issues at this location. The project is expected to have a significant impact on local traffic flow, ensuring that vehicles can move quickly, reducing delays and the chances of accidents. “The flyover will not only ease congestion but also help in making travel safer along this stretch of NH 66,” said Sahoo.

The flyover will feature two main pillars and approach roads, with 15-metre retaining walls at the junction to support its structure. Soil testing for the project is currently underway, and the NHAI is prepared to commence piling work once the testing is completed. The total cost of the project is approximately Rs 22 crore, with a timeline of 12 months for completion. Once completed, the flyover will significantly improve traffic flow, which is currently hindered by the heavy volume of vehicles passing through the junction every day. In addition to the flyover, the NHAI is focusing on improving safety across various accident-prone spots along NH 66. A detailed project report (DPR) is being prepared for the installation of streetlights at several key locations, including the Venpalavattom overpass, Muttathara overpass, Enchakkal flyover, Kumarichantha flyover, and the Thiruvallam service bridge. The streetlighting project will also cover the Kazhakkoottam-Kadampattukonam stretch, along with the area near Lulu Mall, extending towards MGM Public School.

The installation of streetlights will provide much-needed illumination at night, helping drivers navigate these busy stretches with greater safety. The improvements are part of NHAI’s larger effort to tackle road safety issues and reduce the number of accidents that occur on this busy highway. Another key component of the NHAI’s plans for improving infrastructure along NH 66 is the construction of a service bridge at Thiruvallam. The state archaeology department had previously halted work on this bridge due to concerns about its proximity to the historically significant Parasurama Temple. However, the department has now granted the necessary permissions, allowing NHAI to proceed with the construction. This bridge is expected to improve connectivity and further alleviate congestion in the area.

The new flyover at Kumarichantha Junction is just one of several infrastructure projects in the works that aim to improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion in Thiruvananthapuram and surrounding areas. Local residents and commuters are eagerly awaiting the completion of these projects, as the improvements will not only make travel more efficient but also enhance the safety of the busy highway. With the flyover expected to be finished in just one year, residents can look forward to a smoother and safer commute along this crucial stretch of NH 66. The construction of the Kumarichantha flyover and the subsequent safety measures along NH 66 are steps in the right direction to improve traffic management in Kerala’s bustling capital region. With traffic congestion and accidents at Kumarichantha Junction having been a persistent issue, this new flyover offers hope for a safer and more efficient travel experience for thousands of commuters who rely on NH 66 daily.

MIDC Plans to Seek Private Funds for Purandar Airport Land Acquisition

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January 22, 2025

MIDC Plans to Seek Private Funds for Purandar Airport Land Acquisition

The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) is considering reaching out to private financial institutions and banking consortiums to fund the land acquisition for the Purandar airport project. With the state government’s finances already stretched due to welfare schemes like Ladki Bahin Yojana, MIDC is looking to avoid placing an additional burden on the state’s exchequer.

The proposed Purandar airport, which is expected to boost air traffic and enhance connectivity for Pune and its surrounding areas, will require approximately 2,832 hectares of land across seven villages. The estimated cost of acquiring this land is between Rs 6,000 crore and Rs 8,000 crore. In light of the state’s budgetary commitments, MIDC is exploring alternative financing options, including engaging private financial institutions, public sector undertakings specialising in housing finance, and infrastructure project finance. A senior MIDC official stated, “There will be no additional burden on the exchequer as we are exploring all options. We are a corporation and we are not likely to seek funds from the state government.” The official added that a final decision would be made soon, and they are hopeful that the project will continue as planned without depending on state funding.

The MIDC is expected to issue a notification for the land acquisition by the end of February 2025. This notification will mark the beginning of the land procurement process, which will be conducted in line with the MIDC Act provisions. Once the notification is released, the process of acquiring land from the seven villages involved will be initiated. Officials from the district administration, who will assist MIDC with the acquisition, are awaiting further directions. A senior official said, “As of now, we have been told that MIDC will first issue a notification and will then proceed with the acquisition as per the provisions of the MIDC Act.” The state government has set ambitious timelines for the project, aiming to complete the Purandar airport and make it operational by March 2029. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Muralidhar Mohol, who was present during a recent meeting regarding the project, emphasised the growing need for the new airport. “Pune and its surrounding areas are developing rapidly, and the number of air passengers and air traffic is increasing. While the current Pune airport is well-equipped, the new Purandar airport is crucial to meet the future demands of the city,” Mohol said.

The project to establish the Purandar airport is an integral part of Maharashtra’s long-term plans to develop critical infrastructure to keep pace with the region’s economic growth. MIDC’s move to seek private funding for the land acquisition indicates a pragmatic approach to securing the necessary resources without further straining the state’s finances. The focus on private financial institutions reflects the broader trend of leveraging the private sector’s capabilities in funding infrastructure projects. This shift is particularly important in light of the state’s financial constraints, as it ensures the smooth progress of major projects like the Purandar airport without depending heavily on government funds. The airport project is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Pune’s future, both as a business hub and a key player in India’s growing aviation sector. With the demand for air travel set to increase, the Purandar airport will help meet the growing needs of the city and the wider region. As MIDC continues to explore private funding options for the Purandar airport land acquisition, the project is steadily moving forward. While the state’s budget constraints have prompted the shift towards private financing, the ambitious timeline for the airport’s completion remains intact. With the target set for 2029, the Purandar airport will not only enhance Pune’s connectivity but will also support the rapid development of the surrounding areas.

Trichy Metro Project Delayed as State Prioritises Other Cities

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January 22, 2025

Trichy Metro Project Delayed as State Prioritises Other Cities

The Trichy metro project, estimated at Rs 10,917 crore, has taken a back seat despite the completion of a detailed feasibility report (DFR) over a year ago. Although the report, submitted in August 2023, confirmed that a metro system would be viable in the city, Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) has yet to begin work on the detailed project report (DPR) needed to advance the plan.

According to sources within CMRL, metro projects in Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai have taken precedence, leaving Trichy’s metro aspirations on hold. Although recent studies and inspections have been conducted for metro proposals in Coimbatore and Madurai, the Trichy metro project remains sidelined. The city’s residents, many of whom have long anticipated the development of a metro system, are left waiting for the state government to take decisive action. The Trichy metro plan proposes two key corridors spanning a total of 45 km. Corridor 1 would stretch 19 km from Samayapuram to Vayalur and feature 19 metro stations. Corridor 2, which would cover a distance of 26 km, aims to connect Thuvakudi to Panjapur, with 26 stations along the route. Despite the clear benefits and the completion of the feasibility studies, the project has yet to make significant strides.

Trichy, known for its rich history and growing population, is one of Tamil Nadu’s key urban centres. As the city continues to expand, the need for efficient and modern transport systems becomes even more pressing. The introduction of the metro would not only reduce congestion but also improve overall connectivity within the city and neighbouring regions. With the state government focusing on other metro projects, Trichy has missed the window for immediate development. However, there are no major technical hurdles preventing the project from moving forward. Senior officials from CMRL have pointed out that the metro corridors in Trichy would not face significant overlaps with existing infrastructure, such as flyovers or overbridges, which would simplify the construction process. Nevertheless, the main obstacle remains the funding for the project. With no immediate action from the state government, the Trichy metro plan is expected to remain on hold for the time being. A senior CMRL official mentioned, “For now, the project is not on the fast track. The state government has yet to prioritise the metro for Trichy, and arranging the necessary funds remains a major challenge.” Despite the clear feasibility of the project, the delay in its approval and implementation continues to frustrate many who view it as a crucial part of the city’s future development.

The delay in the Trichy metro project underscores the challenges of urban planning and infrastructure development in India. While Coimbatore and Madurai have been given priority, Trichy, despite being a city of significant strategic importance, has yet to receive the same level of attention. Local residents and business owners alike are hopeful that the state government will eventually realise the necessity of the metro project and make it a part of its broader urban transport strategy. As the state’s metro initiatives in Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai progress, Trichy’s residents remain optimistic that the state will eventually turn its attention to their city’s transportation needs. For now, however, the wait continues. The Trichy metro project, while deemed feasible and essential, continues to be delayed as the state prioritises other metro systems in Tamil Nadu. With funding challenges and a lack of immediate state-level support, Trichy’s metro plan remains on hold. The city’s growing transport needs make this project an important one, but for now, it remains in limbo as the focus shifts to other urban transport developments.

IGI Airport to Improve Passenger Transfers with New Tunnel and Flyover Plans

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January 22, 2025

IGI Airport to Improve Passenger Transfers with New Tunnel and Flyover Plans

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is set to become even busier as it ramps up operations to handle up to four crore passengers annually from this summer. To cope with the growing demand and ensure smoother transitions between terminals, Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) has put forth a comprehensive infrastructure proposal, focusing on easing traffic between Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminals 2 and 3 (T2 and T3).

The plan includes the widening of India’s only tunnel road under a runway and the construction of a new Y-shaped flyover. These upgrades aim to improve the commuter experience and reduce the strain on the airport’s already crowded transport system, as traffic is expected to increase significantly in the coming years.

The heart of the project is the expansion of the existing six-lane tunnel road that connects T1 with T3/2. The tunnel, which currently accommodates three lanes in each direction, will be enlarged to include a new six-lane underpass section, offering more room for vehicular movement. This modification is particularly crucial as T1, which is set to handle a larger portion of air traffic, will experience a significant rise in transit passengers. Additionally, DIAL has proposed the construction of a Y-shaped flyover that will link the Northern Access Road with key roads leading to Dwarka, Dhaula Kuan, and Vasant Vihar. This flyover aims to make the journey between T1 and T3 faster by bypassing the often congested NSG junction, enabling a smoother flow of traffic. In tandem with these changes, the Northern Access Road itself will be widened to handle the increased volume of vehicles expected to pass through the airport. The entire infrastructure upgrade is estimated to cost around ₹300-350 crore, with DIAL seeking financial assistance from both the Delhi and central governments to complete the project.

In 2024, IGI Airport handled eight crore passengers, but as passenger traffic continues to grow, the peak capacity is expected to reach 14 crore annually in the next few years. A significant factor contributing to this growth is the planned demolition of T2 to make way for the much larger T4 terminal. To ensure that the airport’s infrastructure keeps pace with these developments, the central government had previously commissioned a detailed traffic study, which was carried out by Japanese consultancy Nippon Koei. The study recommended the Y-shaped flyover and widening of the Northern Access Road as top priorities to ensure seamless connectivity between the terminals. Officials at DIAL emphasise that the proposed road upgrades are critical for improving airport connectivity and handling the expected rise in passenger traffic in the near future. The current plan focuses on making the transfer between terminals much more convenient for passengers, especially those in transit, who often face long and cumbersome travel times due to the airport’s spread-out layout.

While these road improvements are crucial for immediate relief, the longer-term solution for improving airport connectivity includes an automated air train system that will connect T1, T2, and T3, as well as key areas like Aerocity and Cargo City. However, this project has faced delays due to the pandemic and is still a few years away from realisation. The aim is to provide faster, automated, and reliable transportation across the sprawling airport complex, easing congestion and improving the overall passenger experience. As IGI Airport continues to expand and modernise, the proposed widening of the tunnel road and the construction of the Y-shaped flyover represent critical steps towards managing the increasing volume of passengers. These upgrades will not only streamline transit but also contribute to the airport’s ability to handle future passenger growth, ultimately providing a smoother and more efficient travel experience for millions of passengers. These ongoing efforts by DIAL reflect a commitment to enhancing the infrastructure and accessibility of one of the world’s busiest airports, ensuring that IGI remains well-equipped to meet the challenges of the aviation industry in the years to come.

Digi Yatra Revolutionises Airline Travel in India with Decentralised ID Technology

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January 22, 2025

Digi Yatra Revolutionises Airline Travel in India with Decentralised ID Technology

India’s Digi Yatra app has emerged as a game-changer, offering a seamless travel experience that eliminates the need for physical identification and boarding passes. By leveraging decentralised identity (DID) technology, Digi Yatra is enhancing the passenger experience and easing the entire check-in process.

Launched by the Digi Yatra Foundation, the app has garnered immense popularity, with over 8 million downloads and more than 38 million uses across 24 airports in just 22 months. The app’s success lies in its ability to merge the physical and digital worlds by replacing traditional identification methods with a secure, digital identity. Siddharth Sharma, head of IT operations at Digi Yatra Foundation, highlights that the app represents one of the largest and most successful implementations of self-sovereign identity (SSI) technology, a decentralised model that allows users to control their online data. The concept of self-sovereign identity is at the heart of the app’s design. It enables passengers to authenticate their identity digitally, making air travel smoother and more secure. According to Sharma, the app digitises the functions previously performed by physical government-issued IDs and boarding passes. Rather than hunting for a boarding pass or risking the loss of an ID, passengers can now simply stand before a camera at the terminal entrance, and their identity is automatically verified.

The registration process on the app is straightforward. Passengers begin by entering their Aadhaar number and completing an OTP-based authentication. Once verified, UIDAI sends the relevant details to the user’s phone, which are then processed by the app. Importantly, the app only collects the minimum necessary information, such as the passenger’s name, age (derived from the date of birth), and gender. Aadhaar images are used solely to validate presence, ensuring that the person registering is indeed the one using the app. Following registration, passengers take a selfie, which is compared to the Aadhaar photo via a facial recognition engine. If the images match, the data is sent to the Digi Yatra backend, where a “verified credential” (VC) is issued. This VC, containing only the necessary information, is sent back to the user’s phone and stored securely in the Digi Yatra wallet. Once the VC is created, all personal data is purged from the system, ensuring privacy.

With the VC stored on the user’s phone, passengers can quickly pass through airport security. The process works by integrating two documents: the government ID (through the VC) and the boarding pass. To link the boarding pass, passengers scan the QR code or upload a PDF version of it. The app only extracts the essential details from the QR code, such as name, seat number, and flight details, ensuring privacy at every step. At the terminal entrance, passengers stand before a camera, where real-time facial recognition matches their selfie with the VC image. Once validated, a request is sent to the airline’s system to confirm that the passenger is on the flight. If everything matches, the gate opens, and the passenger can proceed.

The Digi Yatra app is designed with privacy at its core. The data shared with airports is deleted from their biometric gallery within 24 hours of a flight’s departure. Passengers can also opt-out by deleting the app, leaving no data trail behind. Importantly, the system does not retain any centralised database, which enhances security and privacy. Digi Yatra also uses blockchain technology for certificates and digital signatures on the VC, ensuring the integrity of the data. The system adheres to W3C standards and integrates AI and machine learning for facial recognition and QR code validation. By integrating decentralised identity technology into air travel, the Digi Yatra app is paving the way for a more efficient, secure, and user-friendly airport experience. As airports and airlines continue to embrace digital transformation, this app serves as a prime example of how technology can enhance convenience and privacy while streamlining the passenger journey. For those travelling through India’s airports, Digi Yatra offers a glimpse into the future of air travel—one that is fast, secure, and entirely digital.

Indian Railways Collaborates with Sparsh CCTV to Enhance Security for Jammu Division and Maha Kumbh

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January 22, 2025

Indian Railways Collaborates with Sparsh CCTV to Enhance Security for Jammu Division and Maha Kumbh

Indian Railways has collaborated with Sparsh CCTV to fortify surveillance across the newly inaugurated Jammu Railway Division and during the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj. Sparsh CCTV, a leader in electronic surveillance solutions, has played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of commuters and pilgrims alike through cutting-edge technology and 100% Made in India solutions.

This partnership aligns with the recent inauguration of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a critical infrastructure project connecting Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. The project, touted as one of India’s most ambitious railway initiatives, required advanced surveillance to ensure both the safety of passengers and the seamless operation of the rail network through some of the country’s most rugged and sensitive regions.

Sparsh CCTV’s state-of-the-art surveillance systems have been integrated into the USBRL project, covering crucial areas like the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest arch railway bridge, and a series of tunnels and bridges that are engineering marvels. With features such as fire and smoke detection, face recognition, and object monitoring, the surveillance systems deployed are crucial in maintaining operational efficiency and preventing accidents, particularly in such a sensitive and high-security region like Kashmir. The USBRL project, which stretches across 119 km, has been a monumental undertaking for Indian Railways. Sparsh CCTV’s contribution has been indispensable, providing real-time monitoring via an integrated Command and Control Centre equipped with advanced AI, SCADA systems, and emergency calling functions. These technologies have enabled authorities to monitor train movements, track obstructions, and manage overhead cable operations in an efficient and timely manner.

Sparsh CCTV’s role was also critical during the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj, where the company ensured the safety of millions of pilgrims arriving at the railway stations. During this period, Sparsh CCTV installed cyber-secured STQC-certified cameras, ensuring high-level security at Prayagraj Junction and other key stations. The company’s end-to-end video management systems facilitated real-time monitoring, crowd control, and the deployment of crowd management analytics at critical locations such as Phaphamau Junction and Rambag. By leveraging 360-degree security coverage and integrated video analytics, Sparsh CCTV contributed significantly to the smooth and safe conduct of the Maha Kumbh. The company’s surveillance solutions not only enhanced security but also provided a seamless experience for the pilgrims, ensuring their safety during one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.

Sanjeev Sehgal, Founder and CEO of Sparsh CCTV, expressed pride in contributing to two key national projects: the USBRL and the Maha Kumbh. He emphasized that Sparsh CCTV’s innovative, indigenously designed products were aligned with India’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), ensuring safety, quality, and technological excellence. The collaboration with Indian Railways and Sparsh CCTV underscores the importance of advanced surveillance in ensuring the success of strategic infrastructure projects and large-scale events. The CCTV systems deployed by Sparsh not only provide comprehensive security but also integrate new technologies like LiDAR 3D for operational efficiency, setting a new benchmark in India’s railway security infrastructure. As the Jammu Railway Division and the Vande Bharat Express prepare for their inaugural runs, Sparsh CCTV’s involvement highlights the growing importance of security in enhancing the passenger experience, improving operational management, and ensuring the overall safety of India’s railways.

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