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The 4th Urban Infra Business Summit & RailTrans Expo 2024 concluded in New Delhi
UTN Online Desk
Posted on: 2024-10-17 07:10:00
Viewer: 2,979
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Country: India
City: New Delhi
New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): The Urban Infra Business Summit & RailTrans Expo 2024 kicked off in New Delhi on October 17, 2024, marking a significant gathering for stakeholders in the urban infrastructure and transportation sectors. This event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and academics to discuss the future of railways and urban development in India. With a focus on innovative solutions and collaborative efforts, the summit aimed to address critical challenges and explore opportunities in the evolving landscape of urban infrastructure.
Day 1 of Urban Infra 2024: Inauguration and Conference
The first day began with an inaugural session that set a celebratory tone for the proceedings. Smt. Mamta Shah, Managing Director and CEO of Urban Infra Group, welcomed esteemed guests, including the chief guest, Prof. Manoj Choudhary, Vice Chancellor of Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya. Other notable dignitaries included Shri Anil Kumar Khandelwal, former Member (Infrastructure) of the Railway Board, and Shri I. Jeyakumar, Secretary of the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority, among others. The session commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and collaboration, followed by the National Anthem and a tribute to the late Sir Ratan Tata for his remarkable contributions to society.
Dr. Richa Chowdhary from the University of Delhi delivered a welcome address that set the stage for the keynote sessions. The focal point was the keynote address titled "Viksit Bharat 2047 – The Constructive Role of Railways, Transportation & Urban Infrastructure in Shaping India," delivered by Prof. Manoj Choudhary. This was complemented by opening remarks from Shri Anil Kumar Khandelwal and insights from various speakers, including Shri Ajay Kumar Lal and Shri Rajesh Agrawal. The session concluded with a networking break, allowing participants to connect and exchange ideas.
The afternoon sessions delved into critical topics, with Mr. Aditya Khakse from IIT Madras discussing the transformative potential of Hyperloop transportation in India. This was followed by Mr. Artem Batalov, who provided insights on payment systems with Russian companies, and Dr. Surabhi Singh, who outlined innovative marketing strategies for the urban infrastructure sector.
Further sessions focused on the role of national highways in supporting electric vehicles, led by Mr. Abhijeet Sinha, and the contributions of rail and metro systems to national development, presented by Dr. Namrita Kalsi. A technical panel discussion on financing urban infrastructure projects featured experts like Ms. Vinita Srivastava and Dr. Namrita Kalsi, with Mr. Ashish Saini as the moderator.
After a well-deserved lunch and stall visits, presentations resumed with Dr. Amudhan Valavan addressing the impact of government subsidies on public transport. Additional highlights included Mr. Anil Thaman's showcase of sustainable cooling solutions and Mr. Vikram Shinde’s emphasis on innovative testing facilities for rail and metro sectors.
The day culminated with a panel discussion on the roles of government, innovators, and private sector players in advancing smart rail and transport infrastructure. This engaging dialogue featured experts such as Ms. Mona Srivastava and Mr. Kishore Nathani, moderated by Mr. Jugal Kishor Bhatti. The day wrapped up with an informal networking tea, fostering connections among participants and laying the groundwork for future collaborations.
Day 2 of Urban Infra 2024: Innovations and Awards
Day 2 of the summit commenced with visitor registrations and quickly transitioned into a series of impactful sessions. Dr. T.S. Ramakrishanan, a senior consultant, opened with a presentation on lessons learned from rail pioneer countries, aimed at fostering indigenous rolling stock technology. This was followed by a panel discussion that explored opportunities for domestic and global players in rolling stock and signaling systems, featuring distinguished panelists like Shri Rajesh Agrawal and Shri Rahul Gosain, moderated by Mr. Ashish Arora.
A brief networking break allowed attendees to connect informally before delving into discussions on the crucial interface between academia and industry, led by Prof. Kunal K. Ganguly from IIM Kashipur. The subsequent session focused on technological innovations in the railway sector, featuring insights from experts such as Mr. Surinder Suri and Mr. Mohd. Tanveer Khan, moderated by Mr. Harsh Dhingra.
Mr. Sushil Kumar, Managing Director of Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC), highlighted the importance of innovation in achieving sustainable goals. This was followed by a vital panel discussion on safety and security in railways, featuring insights from key figures like Mr. Keshav Chandra and Mr. Gulzar Miglani, moderated by Mrs. Anindita Mukerjee Sinha.
After lunch, the highly anticipated awards ceremony recognized exceptional contributions to urban infrastructure and railways. Chief Guest Prof. Manoj Choudhary presented awards to 25 winners, including Mr. Sushil Kumar, named Urban Infra Metro Man of the Year, and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited for Most Accomplished Urban Infra Rail Business Leader of the Year.
The event concluded with reflections from awardees who shared their gratitude and insights. Mr. Surya Shah delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all participants. The closing tea session provided an opportunity for attendees to further discuss the day's highlights and foster new connections. Overall, Day 2 of Urban Infra 2024 underscored the significance of innovation and collaboration in shaping the future of urban infrastructure in India, setting the tone for continued progress in this vital sector.
The dates of the next edition of Urban Infra Business Summit & RailTrans Expo 2025 were announced during the vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Surya Shah at the closing of the event. The 5th edition of Urban Infra Business Summit & RailTrans Expo 2025 will be held on 25th & 26th June 2025 in New Delhi, India.
UTN Online Desk
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