Development Watch – Week #5 April’26

Development News

---

Barrier free tolls and AI Cameras on Highways

India is set to introduce seamless, barrier-free tolling on national highways by December. This advanced system will use integrated technologies like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) with AI Analytics and RFID based Electronic Toll Collection FASTag for automatic toll collection. Vehicles will not need to stop at toll plazas. This initiative aims to significantly reduce logistics costs, bringing them closer to global benchmarks.

Indian ports turn into logistics-industrial hubs

India’s ports are transforming from cargo gateways into integrated logistics and industrial hubs, supported by public-private partnerships and global best practices. Cargo handling capacity has doubled since 2013-14, from 1,400 MTPA to 2,771 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), with a target of 3,500 MTPA by 2030 and 10,000 MTPA by 2047. In FY 2025-26, India’s major ports handled over 915 million tonnes – the highest ever – registering over 7 per cent growth annually. A national container line is being formed, an energy fleet is being expanded through joint venture companies, and the ship-financing scheme is in place at the duty-free GIFT City.

Shatabdi trains to get new seats and better toilets

Indian Railways has rolled out a comprehensive upgrade programme for its premium Shatabdi Express and Jan Shatabdi Express services across the country. The initiative aims to enhance passenger experience by addressing long-standing issues related to comfort, cleanliness, and onboard facilities in these flagship trains that connect major cities. The focus is on modernising seating with new upholstery, functional snack tables and USB charging ports in every seat. Toilets will receive complete upgrades with better fittings, improved drainage systems and higher hygiene standards.

Mumbai’s biggest infrastructure push

Mumbai has been undergoing an unprecedented infrastructure push in the 2020s, with over $60 billion being invested in metro networks, expressways, a new airport, and regional connectivity projects, marking what could be a defining decade for the city’s transformation. A second international airport, new expressways, a 16-line metro network, redesigned local train rakes, sea links, tunnels and transit-oriented development zones are all coming together, almost simultaneously.

Record office leasing in Q1 in India

With a record-breaking first quarter, India’s office market is buzzing with optimism, achieving its highest leasing volume to date. This remarkable growth showcases a solid trust among occupiers, with significant contributions from tech giants, flexible office solutions, and the banking, financial services, and insurance sectors. Key cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad are at the forefront of this trend.

Tesla supercharger network in major Indian cities

Tesla is set to boost its charging network across India’s major cities. This expansion includes superchargers and destination charging hubs. The company aims to address customer range anxiety. Tesla plans to establish these facilities in Delhi, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Pune. Home charging solutions are also being developed for nationwide availability. Indian car buyers are shifting towards electric vehicles. Concerns over fuel availability and price hikes due to the West Asia conflict are driving this trend. Sales of electric cars have seen a significant jump. Industry leaders note a durable structural shift. Companies are expanding their electric vehicle offerings and charging infrastructure to meet growing demand.

100 MW solar project from Punjab Government

Hindustan Power has secured a 100 MW solar power project from the Punjab government, awarded through a tariff-based competitive bidding process. The company will enter into a 25-year power purchase agreement with Punjab State Power Corporation Limited, with the project expected to be commissioned within 24 months.