Market News Today

The global bitumen market showed mixed trends this week due to oversupply, weak demand in India and East Asia, and geopolitical uncertainties like Middle East tensions, Iran sanctions, and the U.S. government shutdown. While overall prices remained under pressure, regional fluctuations in Europe and China indicate localized dynamics influencing short-term movements. Future market direction will depend on crude oil trends, post-monsoon demand recovery in South Asia, and ongoing geopolitical developments.

Chennai's 14-km Urapakkam–Nallambakkam Road, built for Rs 5 crore, is damaged by overloaded trucks exceeding the 18-tonne limit, just two months after completion. Residents are frustrated, prompting officials to promise repairs and stricter monitoring.

Oil India secured a 15-year gas supply deal with NEEPCO for 1.4 MMSCMD to Assam’s largest gas-based power plant, AGBPS. This extends a 10-year arrangement, enhancing regional energy security and clean energy solutions.

Uttar Pradesh's 67 km Lucknow-Kanpur Rapid Rail Corridor will cut travel time to 45 minutes from 2-3 hours, boosting connectivity, economy, and reducing emissions. UPMRC is preparing the DPR for this transformative project.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected Bilimora station, one of 12 for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train. It features sustainable, modern amenities, inspired by mango orchards, with major infrastructure nearing completion for India's first high-speed corridor.

SJVN awarded 1,500 MW/6,000 MWh FDRE RE storage projects at ₹6.74-₹6.75/kWh to Sembcorp, Reliance, Solarcraft, and ACME. This boosts India's clean energy and grid stability.

JK Lakshmi Cement increased solar procurement, investing ₹40 million for 26% equity in a 9.9 MW project. In FY25, 49% of its power was renewable, with new solar projects commissioned across multiple plants, including a 40 MW facility.

Servotech Renewable Power System secured a 2.58 MW grid-connected rooftop solar project from South Eastern Railway (Ranchi Division). This aligns with Indian Railways' 2030 net-zero goal and India's 500 GW renewable energy target.

RBI's 2025 rate cuts, including a 50 bps repo rate reduction to 5.5% and 100 bps CRR cut, inject ₹2.5 lakh crore liquidity. This aims to boost EV financing affordability, supporting India's electric mobility transition and FY25-26 growth.

Five Indian startups are driving zero emissions this festive season. With India's EV charging market at $348.5M (2024), companies like Ather, Kazam, SUN Mobility, Exponent, and Euler are deploying thousands of chargers and EVs for greener celebrations.