Top 12 Infrastructure Construction Companies in India

In a quickly progressing country like India, infrastructure is a major facilitator for our development and growth. Innovative, cutting-edge, and ambitious infrastructure projects are constantly being constructed all across the country. These world-class projects are a result of the expertise and renowned design of some of the top infrastructure construction companies in India.

So, let’s look at some of the leaders to look out for in this space.

1. SP Infrastructure

This division was established in 1997 to prospect, acquire, develop and maintain the leading and renowned Shapoorji Pallonji Group’s infrastructure assets. This company is essential in the Group's legacy in contracting, constructing, and financing projects.

2. L&T Infrastructure Development Projects Ltd. (L&T IDPL)

A subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro, this company is one of the pioneers of the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) model of development in India, responsible for major infrastructure projects by private sector players in partnership with the government.

3. Reliance Infrastructure Ltd.

One of the largest corporations in India with a number of subsidiaries, Reliance Infrastructure has been a major player in some landmark Indian infrastructure projects including Coal Thermal Power Station in Dahanu, Delhi Airport Express, and Mumbai Metro.

4. GMR Infrastructure Ltd.

This leading Indian infrastructure company has successfully developed a number of projects including New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport and Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and is a leading player in the power sector with over 4400 MW installed capacity.

5. Sterling & Wilson

This EPC company has over 90 years of legacy as a trusted name in the infrastructure and energy space across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East with an expanded presence in Europe and the Americas. 

6. Hindustan Construction Company

HCC has executed several large-scale civil engineering and infrastructure projects such as power plants, expressways, highways, tunnels and bridges including Bandra Worli Sea Link and Mumbai-Pune Expressway. This leading Indian company is also a major player in the development of the planned city of Lavasa set in the Sahyadri Mountains.

7. GVK Power and Infrastructure Ltd.

This award-winning company has been a pioneer under the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) model in India having set up India’s first Independent Power Plant (IPP), first six-lane road project and first Brownfield airport. In the power sector, GVK has over 1562 MW cumulative capacity.

8. Afcons Infrastructure

Specializing in extremely challenging engineering and construction, Afcons has a portfolio of complex projects in over 20 countries. It has executed turnkey megastructures in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

9. Nagarjuna Construction Company Limited

This leading Indian construction company has projects spread across various sectors including infrastructure with projects for railways, roads, power, mining, and irrigation, among others. Their notable projects in India include Delhi Metro Railway Line and Kalina-Vakola Flyover in Mumbai.

10. Punj Lloyd Group

This major construction company has also been a notable contributor to India's infrastructure development, having completed a substantial number of projects including power plants, airports, railways, expressways, and so on. 

11. Lanco Infratech Ltd.

Another major Indian construction company, they have lent their expertise to a number of large civil and urban infrastructure projects. These projects involve roads, ports, railway lines, etc. including two major National Highway (NH) projects in the State of Karnataka among others.

12. IVRCL Infrastructures & Projects Ltd.

This leading construction company has diversified expertise in infrastructure including transportation, power, mining, operations and maintenance, and most significantly in the water sector including irrigation projects and India’s 1st and largest desalination plant near Chennai with 100MLD capacity.

Keeping Your Solar Panels Clean

Like all good technologies, solar power systems require periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Fortunately, it takes little effort to maintain a quality installation. And these systems actually demand very little attention to do their job well. One of the easiest ways to keep your solar power system up and running is simply to clean it. What's more, periodic rain does the job for you for a good portion of the year.

Having said that, it doesn't hurt to give your system a quick run through to know that you have done your part.

So how do you keep your Sterling and Wilson Solar power system in its best shape? Let's find out:

While a mild layer of dust and dirt doesn't noticeably affect performance, over time, these elements could build-up to prevent your system from fully exploiting the incident sunlight. Dirt, dust, leaves, pollen, ash and waste from birds and insects can slowly create an optical barrier. The good news is, it takes little to bring your panels back to their shiny best state.

Ideally, it is recommended to hire an expert, who know how to avoid scratching the panels or accidentally breaking something lose that could void the warranty. Even without an expert, the job isn't all that hard if you follow some basic precautionary measures. All you need is a soft bristle brush attached to a long handle and you're usually good to go. A high-power water spray can do the trick too, if you have one on hand. Just remember to turn the solar power system off before you begin and be sure to have a firm footing on a solid floor to avoid any unforeseen incidents. 

A good quality system will do just fine with these measures and deliver good output during its lifetime. And you can always rely on our expertise for anything beyond your capabilities or reach.

At Sterling and Wilson Solar, we look after our customers’ assets like our own, meticulously caring and streamlining to minimize consumption and operating costs. Using state-of-the-art computerized maintenance and management systems, as well as mechanized and robotic cleaning, we ensure end-to-end solar plant operation and maintenance solutions on both DC & AC side, inclusive of scheduled corrective, preventive and predictive maintenance.

Tips for First-Time Home Buyers in Kenya

 Buying your first home in Kenya

So you're finally ready for that home you've always dreamed of having. You have your finances in order, you did your searching and after what felt like an eternity, you have finally zeroed in on a house that finally feels like home. But are you fully prepared to take the plunge and make that downpayment? Read on.

Buying a home is probably going to be the biggest purchase of your life. Our advice is to take your time. Double up on all your research and let that decision sink in naturally, after careful considerations on all fronts.

Here are some tips for first-time homebuyers in Kenya:

Trusting sellers in a hurry.

It is easy to put your trust in a seller who claims to have bills to settle and wants to sell off in a hurry. But this is often the biggest red flag to look out for. Sellers in a hurry could just as easily be trying to scam you into buying a house that doesn't have all of its paperwork in order. The result? You may be in for a long wait, while legal proceedings drag on. Or worse.

Relying on a home loan that defaults last minute.

Home loans are a very big deal. Just because you have a pre-approved home loan, doesn't guarantee a sanction. Imagine having everything in order and you're about to start paying for a home for which you already laid down a hefty deposit. And the next thing you know, you don't have a home loan to follow through and your deposit is now gone! Make sure you meet all your lender's requirements to be fully sure of having a home loan to rely on.

Not inspecting enough before buying.

Homes are living, breathing things. Some age well, most don't. If the house you just bought presents unexpected horrors, you could be in for a costly repair. Look for critical problems like leaking water lines, crumbling driveways, cracks in the walls and roofs, termites, rotting wood and sunken flooring. Trust your instincts when you find anything off with a house and don't be hesitant to inspect further if required. Remember - this is the biggest purchase of your life. Take your time and consult experts wherever required.

Not agreeing on what you're actually paying for.

When you buy a pre-used home, don't be shy to discuss what exactly do you get to keep. Some sellers leave most furnishings behind while others may take everything with them, even light bulbs! Little things like curtain rods, toilet seats, fans, taps, pipes, hoses etc are just as important as the bigger picture and can easily add up to an unseen expense if the previous home-owner decides to take everything with them. When agreeing on a price you are about to pay, list down exactly what you are paying for, including these overlooked items. You don't want to move into a home with missing water taps on the first day!

Neglecting the monthly cost of maintaining a pre-used home.

Buying a house may be a very big deal, but it is only the beginning. Homes require upkeep and monthly maintenance expenses. Before hurrying into a house that seems like a very good deal, take some time to find out what it would take to maintain it on a month-on-month basis. Having to service a home loan along with heavy monthly expenses can be a very difficult situation.

There's a saying in the home-buying business. If someone else doesn't want it anymore, make sure it has everything you need before you start wanting it. Buying a new affordable home is often a wiser choice than buying a used home that looks like a great deal. If you're on the market for a house that you can afford in Kenya, look no further than MiVida Garden City Apartment on Thika Road in Nairobi. These homes are designed to address the shortage of middle-income housing that families can afford.

MiVida promises innovative design, modern engineering, trusted construction, on-time delivery and an impeccable record, and is created through a joint venture between Actis, a leading growth markets investor who has been active in the region for over 70 years and Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate (SPRE), the real estate arm of one of India’s largest conglomerates.

Top 12 Construction Companies in Mumbai

In the bustling city of Mumbai, there is an abundance of excellent infrastructure and prime real estate with new projects coming up regularly. This means there are tons of well-known as well as up and coming construction companies where aspiring engineers or experts in the field of engineering and construction can reach and practice their full potential.

Let’s take a look at some of the leading and top-notch construction companies working in the country’s financial capital Mumbai.

1. Shapoorji Pallonji Group

India’s oldest and most prestigious construction company and now a global leader, Shapoorji Pallonji & Co. Ltd. (SPCPL) is a powerhouse combination of all of its major companies that deliver end-to-end solutions across segments including construction. This company is responsible for some of the major projects making up Mumbai's iconic skyline.

2. SP Engineering & Construction

India's first ISO 9001-2000 certified construction company, it has facilitated infrastructure in all major sectors including airports, industrial and manufacturing plants, R&D centers, power plants, smart cities, water treatment plants, hospitals, hotels, and so much more.

3. K Raheja Corp

One of the largest developers in the country, K Raheja Corp has constructed thoughtfully designed commercial and residential projects. Well renowned for creating aspirational spaces, each of their projects has its own distinct characteristics and attributes while also being ahead of the curve with regards to green and environmentally conscious design. 

4. Lodha Group

With its headquarters in Mumbai, this is one of India's premier real estate developers with a wide range of commercial and residential projects across the country. They have large land reserves in Mumbai with an estimated 33.8 million

sq. ft. of prime real estate being developed across the globe.

5. SP Engineering, Procurement & Construction

This company provides turnkey EPC solutions in the field of power, metals and minerals, industrial solutions, and special projects such as defense and chemical plants in the Indian and global markets.

6. Godrej Properties

With a 121-year legacy of excellence and trust, Godrej brings its philosophy of innovation and sustainability to the real estate industry with this construction company. They have residential, commercial, and township projects spread across an estimated 151 million sq. ft. across 12 cities.

7. Oberoi Realty

Another recognized name in the city of Mumbai, Oberoi has made a significant impact in the office, recreation, shopping, and residential spaces. They have developed over 42 projects at strategic locations across Mumbai over 11.89 million sq. ft. of spaces with another 38 million sq. ft. in the making.

8. SP Infrastructure

This division was established in 1997 to prospect, acquire, develop, and maintain Shapoorji Pallonji Group’s infrastructure assets. This company is essential in the Group's legacy in contracting, constructing, and financing projects.

9. MICL Group

Man Infraconstruction Limited is another leading real estate developer in Mumbai with a legacy dating back to over 50 years. They have successfully delivered 2.5 million sq. ft. of constructed property, providing customers with the thrill of living in upscale and well-designed properties at affordable prices.

10. Kalpataru Limited

Setting high standards for real estate in Mumbai, Kalpataru has received several global awards in design and quality. The company is a leader in many aspects - from building Mumbai’s tallest residential tower in the 70s which remained for 25 years and building Asia’s first and the world’s sixth Platinum LEED-certified commercial building to be among the earliest adopters of eco-friendly construction methods.

11. Hindustan Construction Company

One of the pioneers in the Indian infrastructure industry, HCC delivers world-class engineering and construction services. They create a responsible and sustainable infrastructure for transportation, buildings and industrial projects, hydroelectric power projects, nuclear power projects, and water solutions.

12. SP Real Estate

This reputed player in the booming Indian real estate sector is regarded for cutting-edge design innovation, construction quality, and architectural excellence in lifestyle spaces from opulent skyscrapers to affordable housing and functional workspaces.

Common Misconceptions About the Effects of Weather on Solar Panels

 

With the changing climate and extreme weather patterns seen across the globe, it is easy to dismiss emerging hardware technologies that are primarily located outdoors, with the fear of malfunction, damage and the resulting expenses. One such technology - solar power technology - is ironically believed to fall victim to the very climate it is designed to help protect. It is easy to think that these fragile panels of glass will not withstand today's climate extremes. But they're actually more resilient than we give them credit for.

Solar panels are associated with some persistent misconceptions when it comes to its durability. Let's set the record straight.

They don't perform well in cold-weather climates - false.

It is true that solar power systems take advantage of the sun's energy to convert sunlight into electricity. But they rely on the sun's light and not its heat. Therefore, temperature variations have little to do with the efficient functioning of solar power technologies, so long as there is abundant sunlight. 

They can sustain damage due to strong winds - false.

A good quality solar installation is made up of elements that are tested against great stresses. Solar installations are also planned in advance, keeping local wind patterns in mind. Such steps can minimize the worst of the wind's effects. These are highly valuable systems that are designed by experts who are well aware of everything the weather can throw at us in a given region.

Solar panels are fragile and can easily crack in heavy rain or hail - false.

Every element in a solar-powered system's assembly undergoes rigorous testing and must meet with specific compliance standards by governing bodies. Once again, with the right partner to do the job, you can be sure that the system can handle all the stresses of the local weather, as it is certified to.

They have no place in regions that receive snowfall - false.

Solar panels are designed to tolerate extreme temperatures. Moreover, systems can also be outfitted with technology that helps them melt snow on the solar panels, often faster than it otherwise would under the winter sun. As long as solar panels receive sunlight, they're perfectly capable of operating efficiently even in snowy conditions.

All solar installations perform in the same way in extreme weather - false.

The solar installation business is still in its infancy. While established players will make sure to comply with all safety norms in a given region, some newer companies may not be so rigorous in their testing and compliance practices. It is therefore important to do your fair share of research before going green with solar. Without the right expert, there is no right job!

Sterling and Wilson Solar is one of the leading solar EPC solutions providers in the world, with a presence across 25 countries. The Solar EPC Division of Sterling and Wilson Pvt. Ltd. commenced operations in 2011 and boasts of an impressive portfolio of 252 solar power projects with an aggregate capacity of 10.6 GWp across geographies. If you are looking for a solar power system that is efficient, durable, and built to meet all local compliance standards, Sterling and Wilson Solar is a good place to start.

A Tour of the Garden City Mall in Nairobi

 

Image Source - magicalkenya.com

With over 100 shops, state-of-the-art cinemas, restaurants, cafés, bars, salons, banks, supermarkets and more, Garden City Mall has it all! 

Shaping up to be one of the hottest shopping and lifestyle destinations in Nairobi, this one-for-all address caters to all tastes and promises a day-well-spent for any family outing, an evening with friends, colleagues or even a solo excursion. Just factor in a few extra hours into your day, as you'll surely be lost in a mesmerizing maze of everything you didn't know you needed.

It is conveniently located just a short drive from Braeburn school Windsor Golf and Country Club, and just 18 minutes from CBD. And with over 1200 parking slots, there's room for everyone to arrive in style! 

Let's begin with shopping. Garden City has enough for mom, dad and child to go gaga over. With labels like Giordano, Accessorize with Style, Avilas House of Fashion, MAC, Zopo Men's Fashion, Lego Play, Toyworld, no one goes empty-handed. In fact, you'll surely return for more, so we hope you've made space back at home!

After all that shopping, rest your feet and pamper your senses with some of the best eats in town. There's Artcaffe coffee & bakery, BIG Square, Galito's, Java House, KFC, Koreana BBQ and more. Be it a casual work meeting, a dinner date, a last minute family jaunt or an elaborate celebration, you've come to the right place for a variety of culinary delights.

Garden City isn't just an outing, it is an experience. There's 9D cinema and Century Cinemax to help you unwind with that sudden urge to sit back with a flick. Then there are utilities like Absa Bank, Airtel, Equity Bank, Samsung and OPPO stores and Hudson Furnishings to take care of those often-forgotten but oh-so-important home-related matters to tend to. And before you head out, don't forget to raid Thirsty Lion for something to quench your thirst after a great day.

Garden City Mall is in the immediate vicinity of MiVida Apartments and offers 3 bedroom apartments in Nairobi from KES 6.9m. Mi Vida Garden City is an opportunity to invest in its strategic location and expanding offerings. These apartments are a quick walk or drive away from multiple corporate locations like EABL, PZ Cussons East Africa Ltd, Chandaria Industries, and ICIPE, with a number of businesses slated to open soon. With international schools such as Crawford School and USIU nearby, MiVida is poised to become a destination for sought-after homes in Thika Road - just an impromptu whim away from Garden City Mall.

5 Reasons to Live on Thika Road and Surrounding Areas in Nairobi

 Looking for the best place to settle with your family in Nairobi city?

Here are 5 reasons you should consider living on Thika Road:

1. Accessibility- From Thika Road, you can reach the Nairobi Central Business District using the Thika Superhighway within 20-30 minutes or alternatively link to Juja, Thika and other countries such as Murangá, Kirinyaga and Nyeri. Going to Mombasa or flying out? Thika Road boasts of such convenience, you can easily get to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Mombasa Road via the Eastern By-pass.

2. Affordability- Ruiru, near Thika Road, is not an expensive place to live in and you can live within your budget. With rents ranging from Ksh 25,000 to Ksh 30,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment, and Ksh 35,000 to Ksh 45,000 for a 3-bedroom unit, it is pocket-friendly for a middle-income family. If you wish to buy a house, a 4-bedroom house will cost between Ksh 15 and Ksh 20 Mn, depending on the size, the location and its finishing.

3. Amenities are within reach- Ruiru boasts of a wide range of schools including universities such as Kenyatta University, Zetech, and NIBS in close proximity. For leisure and weekend getaways, you can visit the Rainbow Hotel, Kamakis restaurants located along the Eastern By-pass, and BTL Christian Conference Centre in Membley Area. The Ruiru town has several banks to take care of your financial needs and supermarkets to access basic house necessities.

4. Utilities- Residents in the area are served by water from the Ruiru- Juja Water & Sewerage Company as well as CDF-funded community borehole water projects. To address the influx of the population, the county government of Kiambu has commenced plans for a sewerage system to cater for sewage disposal. The area is well secured with the presence of various police posts and the main police station in Ruiru town. In newer estates, residents have employed the gated community concept with boundary walls and a single-manned gate to control entrance.

5. Serene Environment- Previously a coffee farm, Ruiru has a tranquil environment ideal for a home. It also has a rural feel allowing you to keep animals, grow vegetables, or even have a fish pond, something you would not easily do in urban centers in Nairobi.

Mi Vida at Garden City apartment near Garden City Mall on Thika Road is the ideal place to live peacefully. Book New 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments in Nairobi at Garden City (off exit 7 Thika Super Highway) from KES 6.9m.