News Bulletin: February 2026 – Edition 2
From railway multi-tracking approvals and airport cargo infrastructure investments to metro corridor expansions and port modernization initiatives, this week’s developments underscore continued progress across core infrastructure sectors. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved key rail capacity projects, new aviation-linked logistics facilities were announced at Jewar, and urban transit corridors in NCR and Gujarat moved forward. Ports, logistics and municipal infrastructure projects also saw fresh activity. Here is a structured sector-wise roundup of the latest updates.
ROADS & HIGHWAYS
Govt Revises BOT Model Concession Agreement
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari announced revisions to the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model concession agreement. The changes include updated risk-sharing provisions between the government and concessionaires and adjustments related to traffic estimation and revenue mechanisms.
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Delhi to Implement ‘Rah-Veer’ Scheme
The Delhi government will implement the Centre’s ‘Rah-Veer’ scheme under which individuals assisting road accident victims will receive ₹25,000 and a certificate of appreciation, announced Delhi’s CM Rekha Gupta. The scheme operates under the Good Samaritan rules notified under Section 134A of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019.
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MSRDC, BPCL Review Safety Measures on Mumbai–Pune Expressway
After a propylene gas tanker overturned near the Adoshi Tunnel on February 3, causing a 32-hour disruption on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, MSRDC and BPCL announced immediate and long-term safety measures. Immediate steps include stricter enforcement of existing SOPs for hazardous cargo transport. MSRDC has formed a seven-member expert committee to recommend safety improvements for the Mumbai–Pune and Samruddhi Expressways, with a report due in two months. BPCL will introduce enhanced driver training, awareness programmes and deploy quick-response teams along hazardous gas routes.
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NHAI Mandates Compliance with Revised Service & Slip Road Guidelines
NHAI has directed strict compliance with updated service and slip road guidelines after project delays led to these roads handling higher traffic volumes and deteriorating prematurely. Officials have been instructed to revise RFPs and tender schedules for upcoming projects, while ongoing works may adopt the norms with Competent Authority approval. The move follows MoRTH’s November design standards introducing a formula for service road design life, region-specific pavement specifications, mandatory drainage provisions, and the requirement that service roads be completed before the main carriageway.
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PORTS AND SHIPPING
IOCL, BPCL & HPCL to Acquire 35% Stake in New Shipping Freight JV
India’s oil refiners – Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) — agreed to take a 35% stake in a new shipping freight joint venture with Shipping Corporation of India (SCI). The partnership aims to reduce dependency on foreign tankers for crude and product movements, which represent a significant annual charter cost. The move is expected to improve logistical efficiency, strengthen India’s energy security and boost domestic maritime freight capacity.
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Sanjeev Sanyal Highlights Strategic Weakness in Maritime Supply Chain
Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, stated on 25 February 2026 that India’s heavy reliance on foreign-flagged vessels, which carry over 90% of the country’s trade by volume, represents a “strategic weakness” for the nation’s economic resilience. He noted that expanding India’s domestic fleet and maritime capabilities is necessary to strengthen energy and trade security. A package estimated at ₹77,000 crore has been proposed to support shipbuilding, ship ownership and related port infrastructure. The remarks were given in the context of broader discussions on improving domestic maritime capacity and reducing external dependencies.
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India-GCC Free Trade Agreement Statement Signed
On 24 February 2026, Union Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi signed a Joint Statement in New Delhi initiating negotiations for the India–GCC Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The signing sets a framework for a comprehensive trade pact expected to deepen economic cooperation, enhance trade flows and support export growth, including maritime and port services sectors. Delegations from both sides participated in the formal ceremony as discussions move toward broader market access and trade facilitation. The India–GCC FTA work is positioned as a strategic lever for boosting India’s maritime trade links with Gulf ports and logistics corridors.
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VOC Port Authority Faces Objections Over Outer Harbour Tender Criteria Changes
VOC Port Authority amended the qualification criteria for its ₹9,827.20 crore hybrid annuity tender for the outer harbour container terminal. The original requirement for dredging and reclamation experience was removed and replaced with a mandatory 2 km breakwater construction experience certified and paid in India. According to the Detailed Project Report, dredging and reclamation account for approximately ₹6,523.62 crore (about 66.4%) of the total cost, while breakwater works constitute about ₹1,180.91 crore (12%). Bidders raised objections, stating the amendment alters the core framework and may conflict with international competitive bidding norms for projects above ₹200 crore.
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India’s First 150 TPD E-Methanol Plant to Be Set Up at Deendayal Port
Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla, in collaboration with Assam Petrochemicals Ltd (APL), will set up India’s first 150 tonnes per day e-methanol plant at Deendayal Port. Senior officials from both organizations visited the project site as initial groundwork activities commenced. The plant will produce e-methanol using renewable energy and captured carbon dioxide, supporting low-carbon fuel production. The project forms part of efforts to promote alternative fuels and strengthen sustainable port-led industrial development.
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LOGISTICS
Tenders Floated for Logistics Park in Thoothukudi
The Tamil Nadu government has floated tenders for the construction of a regional logistics park in Thoothukudi, aimed at supporting freight aggregation and multimodal cargo movement. The facility is intended to leverage the city’s road and rail connectivity to improve logistics efficiency and strengthen supply chains in the southern region. The park is expected to function as a key freight hub, supporting local exports and hinterland connectivity.
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Indian Railways Launches RailParcel Pilot to Enhance Parcel Logistics
Indian Railways has launched a pilot initiative called RailParcel across seven cities – Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Guntur, Rajahmundry, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru and Chennai – aimed at enhancing parcel logistics services. The project, led by the South Central Railway zone, uses the ROQIT digital platform developed by AION-Tech Solutions to streamline parcel movement workflows and integrate with existing railway systems. The initiative is intended to modernize and digitize parcel logistics, improve operational efficiency, and enhance customer experience.
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Kerala Govt Signs ₹2,000 Cr Logistics Master Plan at Vizhinjam Port
The Kerala government signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) worth ₹2,000 crore with three central public sector undertakings – IOCL, Concor and Central Warehousing Corporation – to launch a logistics master plan at Vizhinjam International Seaport. The investment includes ₹700 crore for maritime fuel infrastructure by IOCL, ₹600 crore for rail connectivity by Concor, and ₹700 crore for a multimodal logistics park by CWC. Land for each project has been identified near the port, supporting development of a strategic economic hub and ensuring scalable cargo handling capabilities while preventing monopolization.
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CCEA Approves ₹9,072 Crore Railway Multi-Tracking Projects
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved three railway multi-tracking projects costing ₹9,072 crore across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand. The projects will add 307 km of additional rail lines to ease congestion on high-density corridors. The Ministry of Railways stated that the works are targeted for completion by 2030 and are aimed at improving freight and passenger capacity. The projects also involve land acquisition and infrastructure upgrades along the identified routes.
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Ascendas Firstspace to Acquire 9 Lakh Sq Ft of Warehousing Space in Ahmedabad
CapitaLand-backed Ascendas Firstspace has signed an agreement for forward purchase of approximately 9 lakh square feet of Grade-A warehousing and industrial space in Bavla, Ahmedabad. The acquisition expands the company’s footprint in a key logistics and distribution hub, supporting growth in regional supply chain and warehousing infrastructure. This expansion reflects continued investor interest in logistics real estate and the strategic importance of western India’s industrial corridor markets.
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Transport Logistic India 2026 and Air Cargo India Open in Mumbai
The 11th edition of Air Cargo India opened on 26 February 2026 in Mumbai alongside the inaugural Transport Logistic India 2026 trade fair at the Jio World Convention Centre. Organized by Messe Muenchen India, the co-located events bring together freight forwarders, airport operators, shipping lines, logistics developers, warehouse and supply chain technology partners. AB de Villiers was announced as the Brand Ambassador for Transport Logistic India 2026, and the programmes include sessions on multimodal logistics, warehousing, digital integration and freight performance excellence.
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URBAN INFRA
BMC Unveils Record ₹80,952 Crore Budget for FY 2026-27
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) presented its largest-ever annual budget of ₹80,952.56 crore for the fiscal year 2026-27, with capital expenditure accounting for nearly 60% of the total outlay. The civic body allocated ₹5,690 crore for wastewater treatment facilities and seven new sewage treatment plants under its capital programme. Key funded works include wastewater management, road resurfacing, drainage improvements and public amenities. The budget aims to support infrastructure, service delivery and climate resilience initiatives across Mumbai.
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Delhi CM Launches ₹264 Crore Urban Development Push in Mundka
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta laid the foundation stone for 49 development projects worth ₹264 crore in the Mundka Assembly constituency on 25 February 2026. The projects include the improvement of road connectivity, upgraded drinking water supply and enhanced sewerage infrastructure in urban and peri-urban areas of the city. Gupta noted that nearly ₹1,600 crore in development works were initiated across rural and urban belts over the past year, with an additional ₹1,000 crore dedicated to village development. The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to improve basic urban utilities and public services in the capital.
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GVMC Wins $1M Grant in Global Mayors Challenge for Urban Innovation
The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) was selected as a global winner of the Global Mayors Challenge and awarded a $1 million (approx. ₹9 crore) grant for its community-based urban resilience project called V-PULL (Visionary People-Centric Urban Living Lab). The grant includes technical and operational support to scale the initiative citywide. The project focuses on disaster preparedness, climate resilience, data-driven urban governance and enhanced citizen engagement. GVMC plans partnerships with academic institutions and the private sector to expand V-PULL’s impact across the city.
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Haryana Govt Announces Major Urban Transport & TOD Initiative
The Haryana government approved the alignment for the 64 km Gurgaon–Faridabad–Noida Namo Bharat corridor, which will integrate six metro stations in Gurgaon and establish two combined Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS)–metro hubs within the city. The project, highlighted on 26 February 2026, is expected to enhance urban mobility by linking metro networks with high-speed RRTS services. This represents a significant step in transit-oriented development planning for the National Capital Region. Officials said the corridor will facilitate smoother, faster travel and reduce congestion on major urban routes.
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AVIATION
UP Govt Signs ₹4,458 Crore MoU with AISATS for Jewar Airport Cargo & Catering Facilities
The Government of Uttar Pradesh signed a ₹4,458 crore memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Air India SATS Airport Services (AISATS) to develop an advanced integrated cargo campus and a world-class air catering kitchen at the upcoming Noida International Airport (Jewar). The MoU was signed during Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s visit to Singapore as part of efforts to attract global investment into state infrastructure. The cargo campus is expected to strengthen air freight handling capacity in North India and support sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals and agriculture by accelerating export-import flows. The air catering facility will supply meals not only for flights originating from Jewar but also across the region, supporting enhanced operational and service infrastructure. Officials described the projects as key to positioning Jewar as both a logistics hub and a regional aviation services centre.
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Guwahati Airport Terminal Expansion Increases Capacity to 13.1 Million Passengers
The newly expanded terminal at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati) has begun commercial operations, raising the annual passenger capacity to 13.1 million. The project, inaugurated in February, modernizes facilities, adds gates and amenities, and improves passenger processing space to support rising traffic in the Northeast region. Airport officials have positioned the expanded infrastructure as a major boost to regional connectivity, linking Northeast India more effectively with South and Southeast Asia. The upgraded terminal is expected to support both passenger and cargo demand growth, reinforcing Guwahati’s role as the primary aviation hub in the region.
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Chandigarh/Mohali Airport Link Road Extension to March 2026 (Infrastructure Connectivity)
The alternate airport link road connecting Mohali to Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport was extended to March 2026 due to winter weather–related delays, with 90% of the dual-carriageway work completed. Once operational, the 8.5 km link will ease congestion on the main access route and improve connectivity for passengers and cargo vehicles commuting to the airport. The project includes bridges and under-railway connections, coordinated with railway authorities for final clearances. The road completion is part of the broader Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) mobility master plan to support airport access and regional logistics flows.
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PM Modi Set to Inaugurate Noida International Airport, Poised to Become India’s Largest
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to formally inaugurate Noida International Airport (Jewar) in March 2026, which is projected to be India’s largest airport upon commissioning. The airport is being developed under a public–private partnership model with significant capital investment and multiple connectivity components, including elevated expressway links and freight infrastructure. The first phase is expected to substantially expand North India’s aviation capacity, catering to both passenger and cargo demand. The inauguration marks a major milestone in India’s aviation infrastructure rollout and is seen as a catalyst for regional economic growth.
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Embraer & Adani Move Toward Final Assembly Line Plans in India (Regional Aircraft Manufacturing)
Adani Defence & Aerospace and Embraer have progressed plans to establish a Final Assembly Line (FAL) in India for the Embraer E175 regional jet, building on an enhanced MoU signed during a state visit, with industry and political leadership present. The roadmap centres on creating an integrated aircraft manufacturing ecosystem covering assembly, local supply chain development, pilot training, MRO (maintenance, repair & overhaul) services and aftermarket support. This initiative aligns with India’s Regional Transport Aircraft ambitions and could strengthen domestic aviation manufacturing infrastructure.
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URBAN TRANSPORT
Haryana Govt Approves Gurgaon–Faridabad–Noida Namo Bharat + RRTS Integrated Corridor
The Haryana government approved the alignment for a 64 km transit corridor integrating the Gurgaon–Faridabad–Noida RRTS with six metro stations within Gurugram city. The project will enable shared use of infrastructure between the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) and the metro network, supporting enhanced urban mobility and reducing travel times across the National Capital Region (NCR). Officials confirmed that the integrated design aims to optimize land use, improve feeder connectivity and boost passenger capacity on both transit systems. The move is part of broader efforts to advance transit-oriented development (TOD) and seamless multimodal linkages in densely populated urban stretches.
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Delhi to Add 500 Mini E-Buses to Improve Last-Mile Connectivity
The Delhi government announced plans to introduce 500 new electric mini buses, smaller than existing feeder buses, to strengthen last-mile connectivity in congested residential areas. These mini buses will operate under the Centre’s PM E-DRIVE Scheme and are expected to serve narrow streets and densely populated colonies where larger buses face accessibility challenges. The fleet expansion complements ongoing efforts to electrify urban public transport and support seamless integration with metro and bus rapid transit systems. The additional buses are part of a broader target to expand Delhi’s electric bus fleet to over 13,000 by 2028.
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Cabinet Approves ₹1,067.35 Cr Ahmedabad Metro Extension to GIFT City
The Union Cabinet approved a ₹1,067.35 crore extension of the Ahmedabad Metro’s North–South corridor from GIFT City to Shahpur, aiming to improve urban transit connectivity in the Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar region. The project will be executed by the Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (GMRC) on a 50:50 joint venture basis between the Government of India and the Government of Gujarat. This extension is expected to enhance last-mile connectivity to major business and economic zones, including the GIFT City financial hub, and facilitate smoother commuter flows across urban centres. Construction timelines are being finalized with related land acquisition and tendering processes underway
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Namo Bharat & Meerut Metro Fully Operational, Reducing Delhi–Meerut Commute
The 82.15 km Delhi–Ghaziabad–Meerut Namo Bharat corridor, India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), has been fully operationalized, linking major urban centres with high-speed rail services. The integrated system includes sections inaugurated between Sarai Kale Khan (Delhi) and Modipuram (Uttar Pradesh), reducing travel times between Delhi and Meerut to around 55 minutes. Simultaneously, the Meerut Metro began commercial operations, offering the country’s fastest urban metro service with enhanced connectivity within the city. The integrated operations model demonstrates a new benchmark in urban and regional transit planning by enabling seamless transfers and shared infrastructure utilization.
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