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Rail Analysis3 min readBMRCL has awarded a Rs. 72.21 crore contract to NSL Constructions for carrying out key architectural finishing and utility works under Phase-2B of the Namma Metro project. The scope of the project covers six elevated metro stations across northern Bangalore. The development strengthens metro infrastructure and commuter-focused station facilities. Introduction: Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (BMRCL), the implementing authority of Namma Metro, has awarded a major infrastructure contract to NSL Constructions Private Limited for architectural finishing and public health engineering works under Phase-2B of the Bangalore Metro Rail Project. The contract, valued at Rs. 72,21,14,928 (excluding GST), underscores BMRCL’s continued push to strengthen urban mobility infrastructure in Bangalore. Project Scope and Stations Covered: The awarded work falls under Package-2 and Package-3 of Phase-2B, specifically designated as Ph2B-A2. The scope includes architectural finishing and public health engineering works for six elevated metro stations, namely: These stations form a crucial part of the northern extension of the Namma Metro network, aimed at improving connectivity to fast-growing residential, commercial, and airport-linked corridors. Execution Timeline: As per the contract terms, NSL Constructions is required to complete the entire scope of work within 16 months from the date of commencement. The defined execution period highlights BMRCL’s emphasis on timely delivery to meet rising commuter demand and to align with broader Phase-2B commissioning targets. Key Components of Work: The contract covers a wide range of construction and finishing activities essential for station readiness, operational efficiency, and commuter comfort. The scope includes masonry, metal, flooring, and architectural finishing works, along with site development to improve accessibility and station surroundings. It also involves installing sanitary fittings and fixtures, supported by reliable water supply, drainage systems, and rainwater pipes. Together, these works aim to deliver durable, functional, and commuter-friendly metro stations aligned with modern design and operational standards. Significance for Namma Metro Phase-2B: Phase-2B of the Bangalore Metro Rail Project is a strategically important corridor, enhancing connectivity between key northern suburbs and the city’s transport backbone. The architectural and public health engineering works play a vital role in translating civil structures into fully operational stations that meet safety, hygiene, and passenger comfort requirements. The involvement of NSL Constructions Private Limited, a firm with experience in infrastructure development, is expected to contribute to quality execution and adherence to project timelines. The contract value also reflects the scale and complexity of finishing and utility integration required for elevated metro stations. Broader Urban Impact: Upon completion, the six stations will support smoother passenger flow, improved accessibility, and enhanced urban transit efficiency. This development aligns with Bangalore’s long-term mobility vision of reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and providing reliable public transport alternatives. Conclusion: The Rs. 72.21 crore contract awarded to NSL Constructions marks a key milestone in Namma Metro Phase-2B. With a 16-month execution timeline and comprehensive architectural and utility works, the project strengthens Bangalore’s metro infrastructure and brings the city closer to expanded, efficient urban connectivity. Source: BMRCL – Tender Update | Image Credit (representational): BMRCL Timely insights, straight to your WhatsApp—stay updated with ease! Stay connected to the rail industry—timely news, straight to Telegram!
Posted on 22 Jan 2026 Total crude steel production among the member mills of the China Iron and Steel Association (CISA) declined during 2025 to reach 805 million tonnes, falling by 2.7% on year, according to the data released by the association on January 20. For December alone, the member mills produced 58.3 million tonnes of crude steel, recording a 10.5% on-year fall. The significant decline widened the cumulative drop in crude steel output from 1.9% in the first eleven months to 2.7% for the whole year. Cumulative production from CISA member mills accounted for 83.8% of China's total crude steel output of 961 million tonnes in 2025, Mysteel Global calculated based on the data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The 2025 cumulative output for both member mills and non-member mills posted a 4.4% on-year slide, also based on the NBS data. Meanwhile, finished steel production among CISA members reached 826 million tonnes for the full year, rising by 0.9% on year. Nationally,
VOLVO Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) have made changes to their executive management team to strengthen focus on business and cultural transformation and further accelerate overall company performance. Christian Hallbjörner has been appointed as head of finance and chief financial officer (CFO), effective 1 January 2026. He succeeds Klara Eiritz who has decided to take on a new assignment outside Volvo CE. Mr Hallbjörner previously served as senior vice-president of finance and chief financial officer for Volvo Financial Services. He brings more than 28 years of experience in finance, business control, and business development, including the last 15 years within Volvo Financial Services, Volvo Trucks, and Volvo Penta. Melker Jernberg, head of Volvo CE, said: ‘I’m excited to welcome Christian to Volvo CE. With his extensive experience within the Volvo Group, Christian will be a key contributor in driving our financial agenda as we continue to transform our company.’ Meanwhile, Mali
Posted on 22 Jan 2026 ArcelorMittal is increasing coil prices across Europe by a further €30/tonne ($34.90/t), according to market sources. The revised base price for hot rolled coil is €700/t delivered for April delivery, Kallanish notes. Cold rolled coil prices in new contracts are also being increased, to a base of €830/t, while hot-dip galvanised coil is moving to €820/t, with CRC reported to be in tighter supply. The latest hike comes amid a sharp slowdown in import availability, driven by uncertainty surrounding CBAM cost calculations and with the European Commission’s new trade regime set for July implementation. The latter, whose latest proposed version will be voted on by the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade (INTA) next week, could include a 50% out-of-quota tariff and melt-and-pour rule. Import offers into Europe are declining significantly, with Asian producers also facing limited visibility on pricing and future cost structure. Multiple sources highlig
A NEW report highlighting the versatility and economic importance of industrial sand extracted in Britain has been welcomed by the Mineral Products Association (MPA). In its latest mineral planning factsheet ‘Industrial Sand Future Markets’, the British Geological Survey (BGS) uses data to put the spotlight on critical industrial sand markets and anticipated future trends in consumption. The document explains that while the range of uses for industrial sand vary widely, they all have two things in common: (1) They support larger, often higher-value industrial sectors and (2) they require specific properties which only a few British quarries can produce. Because of its high-purity silica (SiO ) chemistry, industrial sand is critical for an overwhelming array of products that support modern life, from glass and glass fibre applications to ceramics, metal castings, rail braking systems, water filtration, chemicals, agriculture, sports pitches, and many others. According to the MPA, which
Posted on 22 Jan 2026 Lodhia Industries has signed a contract with Danieli for the supply of a new state-of-the-art bar and wire-rod rolling mill complex in Tanzania. The project represents a major strategic investment for Lodhia Industries and reinforces its commitment to strengthening steel production capacity in East Africa. The new rolling mill will have an annual production capacity of 300,000 tons and will manufacture finished straight bars and smooth wire rod for local and regional markets. The bar mill will produce rebar in diameters ranging from 8 to 32 mm, while the wire-rod line will roll smooth wire rod from 5.5 to 8 mm, with coil weights of 2 metric tons plus. Danieli’s scope of supply includes advanced rolling technology for both the bar and wire-rod lines. The bar mill will be equipped with 14 cartridge-type GCC stands, a BGV six-pass finishing block, and an in-line quenching and tempering cooling system, complemented by twin-channel high-speed discharge to the cooling b
Posted on 22 Jan 2026 Fuat Tosyali , chairman of the board of Turkish Tosyali Holding, called on the European Union to abolish steel import quotas for countries with environmentally sustainable production, such as Turkey and Algeria. He made this statement on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, according to Daily Sabah. Tosyalı believes that the EU should allow access to low-emission producers to ensure long-term sustainability for its own processing sectors and promote the green transition. He added that although the bloc’s measures are mainly aimed at China, they also apply to Turkey, «undermining the future of the EU’s steel industry.» Tosyalı Holding is currently the largest steel producer in Turkey and one of the world’s 50 leading steel companies. «Despite restrictive import measures around the world last year, we still broke records in production and exports in 2025. This growth will continue in the near future, and thanks to the investments made, we will see our
Posted on 22 Jan 2026 Saudi buyers are moving to secure imported billets before prices reach targeted levels of around $465/tonne cfr liner out, Kallanish notes. Meanwhile, Far Eastern billet offers are fluctuating as domestic rebar and scrap prices continue to rise on the back of solid demand in the central region (Riyadh) and the eastern coast (Dammam). Last week, two parcels of 50,000 tonnes of ex-China 150mm square billet with a minimum manganese content of 0.6% were booked at $475/t cfr liner out to Saudi west coast ports for end-March shipment. As of 21 January, prices had eased to around $473/t cfr for the same specifications for April shipment, with two additional enquiries of 50,000t each in the market. Buyers are targeting levels of $470–472/t cfr, which market participants say could trigger further transactions. Meanwhile, Russian billet offers for similar specifications were heard at $436–440/t fob, although suppliers reportedly withdrew offers on Tuesday. Scrap availabilit
Posted on 22 Jan 2026 China's rebar prices are expected to see moderate gains this year, mainly driven by lower production volumes and higher input costs, according to Mysteel's latest annual report on long steel items. The national price of HRB400E 18mm dia rebar will rise by 1.2-1.5% on year and fluctuate within the range of Yuan 3,000-3,500/tonne ($431-503/t) in 2026, Mysteel predicts. The report points out that opportunities for rebar prices lie in cost-side support and more stringent national policies relating to curbing carbon emissions. But should demand from end-user sectors such as construction prove weaker than expected, this will inevitably put pressure on prices of the bars, the report also warns. During 2025, some steelmakers opted to upgrade their products or production lines which led to a structural optimization in the construction steel sector and a decline in long steel output, the report observed. Last year, China's rebar output dropped by 8.1% on year to total 207 m
Posted on 22 Jan 2026 Buyers of coil in Germany, Benelux, and neighbouring countries have expressed little surprise over ArcelorMittal’s recent announcement of a hot rolled coil price increase to €700/tonne ($821) ex-works. Mills started the year with a reserved attitude, one southern German buyer reflects. “Of five mills, two would still give offers, the others did not appear on the market,” he tells Kallanish . He therefore expected that a new price announcement was near, with the market leader making the first move. “They’re calling for €700, so another mill will give you a more friendly offer of €680,” a southern German buyer believes. A realistic price on the market could be €660, “which would be an achievement, too,” he believes. That would line up with orders he placed last week with a mill which had some capacity left for mid-March. Despite a long transport duration, he concluded the transaction for €660 delivered. The mill has since informed him of a €20 increase this week, be
OGV Energy – News2 min readChappal Energies Mauritius Ltd previously entered into a deal to buy the stake but, according to an online statement by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) on September 25, 2025, failed to consummate the transaction after time extensions. The Renaissance JV, previously known as the SPDC JV when it was operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPDC), holds 15 licenses producing mainly oil, TotalEnergies noted in a statement announcing the sale to Vaaris. The licenses contributed about 16,000 barrels of oil equivalent a day to TotalEnergies’ net production last year, the company said. “TotalEnergies EP Nigeria will also transfer to Vaaris its 10 percent participating interest in the three other licenses of Renaissance JV which are producing mainly gas (OML 23, OML 28 and OML 77), while TotalEnergies will retain full economic interest in these licenses which currently account for 50 percent of Nigeria LNG gas supply”, the statement added. The completion of the transaction, the price of which has not been disclosed, is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions, according to the statement. Currently Renaissance JV is owned by Nigerian National Petroleum Corp Ltd (55 percent), operator Renaissance Africa Energy Co Ltd (30 percent), TotalEnergies EP Nigeria (10 percent) and Eni SpA’s Agip Energy and Natural Resources Nigeria (five percent). Confirming the collapse of the previous sale to Chappal, the NUPRC said “the withdrawal of a ministerial consent does not in any way rule out the possibility of a future divestment by the interested parties provided such an asset sale is in line with extant laws”.
Australian Mining3 min readUS-based critical minerals producer Energy Fuels Inc has entered into a scheme implementation deed (SID) to acquire 100 per cent of Australian Strategic Materials (ASM), positioning the combined group as a major rare earths player outside China. Under the proposed transaction, ASM has been valued at US$299 million (A$444 million), with the acquisition to be completed via a scheme of arrangement under Australian law. Energy Fuels said the deal would create what it believes will be the largest fully integrated rare earth element (REE) “mine-to-metal and alloy” producer outside China, helping address a critical gap in global supply chains for magnet materials used in automotive, robotics, energy and defence applications. Once completed, the transaction will combine ASM’s operating Korean Metals Plant (KMP) and its planned American Metals Plant (AMP) with Energy Fuels’ existing REE oxide production at its White Mesa Mill in Utah. Energy Fuels said White Mesa is currently the only facility in the US capable of separating monazite concentrates into both light and heavy REE oxides, which are intended to be supplied to ASM’s metallisation and alloying facilities in South Korea and the US. ASM’s KMP is one of only a small number of facilities outside China producing REE metals and alloys, including neodymium-praseodymium (NdPr), dysprosium (Dy) and terbium (Tb) metals, as well as neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) and dysprosium-iron (DyFe) alloys. Energy Fuels chief executive officer (CEO) Mark Chalmers said the acquisition was a key step in executing the company’s strategy to build a fully integrated REE supply chain outside China. “The proposed acquisition of Australian Strategic Materials brings us much closer to our goal of becoming the largest fully integrated producer of rare earth oxides, metals and alloys outside China, while supporting US and allied critical minerals supply chains,” Chalmers said. “We see a significant opportunity to expand our suite of rare earth products by combining US rare earth oxide production at our White Mesa processing facility with downstream metal and alloy manufacturing capacity at ASM’s Korean Metals Plant, one of the only producing REE metals and alloys facilities outside China.” Chalmers said ASM’s technical expertise and intellectual property would also support the expansion of REE metal and alloy capacity in the US, while providing Energy Fuels with access to ASM’s Dubbo Project in New South Wales. “The Dubbo Project offers additional long-term rare earth development and growth opportunities that complement our existing mineral resource portfolio,” he said. The ASM board has unanimously recommended that shareholders vote in favour of the proposed acquisition. ASM said the transaction would provide shareholders with access to Energy Fuels’ established operating track record and a strategy aligned with the objectives of the US–Australia Critical Minerals Framework. ASM managing director and chief executive officer Rowena Smith said the deal delivered a significant premium for ASM shareholders while allowing continued exposure to the upside of a larger, better-capitalised critical minerals business. “This transaction accelerates the execution of our mine-to-metals strategy by unlocking greater scale, de-risking delivery and positioning the business to capture the full potential of our rare earths opportunity,” Smith said. The transaction is subject to ASM shareholder approval, approval from the Federal Court of Australia, regulatory approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board, and approvals relating to the listing of Energy Fuels securities to be issued under the scheme. ASM expects to hold its scheme meeting in late May or early June 2026, with implementation targeted for late June 2026, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions. Subscribe to Australian Mining and receive the latest news on product announcements, industry developments, commodities and more.
The Railway Magazine2 min readEast Lancashire Railway (ELR) has partnered with Network Rail to reduce waste and costs by reusing rail materials from the national network on heritage lines. The new agreement will allow railway materials no longer needed on the national rail network such as rail, sleepers and equipment, to be reused safely on heritage lines. As part of the agreement, Network Rail will support heritage and public-facing activity at the ELR, helping to connect local communities, schools, and visitors with the story of rail in the North West. Network Rail colleagues will also be able to use their volunteering leave to support the ELR, sharing skills and time to help maintain and operate the railway. In return, the ELR will provide facilities and opportunities that allow Network Rail to showcase the railway’s past, present and future in an authentic heritage setting, helping to bring rail history and careers to life for people across Lancashire and Greater Manchester. Phil James, Network Rail North West route director, said: “Working with heritage railways like the East Lancashire Railway allows us to give new life to materials that would otherwise be recycled, while also supporting organisations that do such important work in preserving railway history.“This partnership gives us a clear framework to work together, whether that’s through sharing assets, supporting community engagement or contributing to Railway 200 celebrations, and we’re excited about what we can achieve together for the North West.” Mike Kelly, East Lancashire Railway Chairman said: “We are absolutely delighted to be part of this ground breaking partnership which will provide vital access to heritage fixtures and fittings some of which are unavailable. “As part of this partnership, we are pleased to make available our Educational and Infrastructure facilities and staff to work with our ELR staff and volunteers and training days.”
Rail Analysis3 min readKanpur Metro progresses steadily as third rail installation advances steadily between Kanpur Central and Swadeshi Cotton Mill Ramp. The metro operates on a modern 750 Volt DC third rail system instead of overhead equipment. The 750 Volt DC third rail has been completed on the 5.3 km elevated Baradevi–Nausena stretch of Corridor-1, enhancing city aesthetics and reducing maintenance needs. Introduction: The Kanpur Metro Rail Project has reached another significant milestone with the steady progress of third rail installation work across critical sections of the network. The installation between Kanpur Central and the Swadeshi Cotton Mill Ramp marks a key phase in the underground construction activities, reinforcing the project’s pace and technical advancement. In the 3-kilometre-long underground stretch, third rail installation is currently underway in the up-line tunnel alongside track construction. Unlike conventional overhead equipment (OHE) systems, Kanpur Metro trains operate on a 750 Volt DC third rail system. This modern approach ensures smoother operations, enhanced safety, and a cleaner visual profile, particularly in dense urban environments. Elevated Section Achieves Major Completion: Adding to the progress underground, Kanpur Metro has successfully completed the installation of the 750 Volt DC third rail on the 5.3-kilometre elevated stretch between Baradevi and Nausena. This section forms part of the balance works of Corridor-1, which runs from IIT Kanpur to Nausena. The completion of third rail installation on this elevated segment is a major step toward operational readiness. The third rail system offers several advantages, including reduced maintenance requirements and improved city aesthetics, as it eliminates the need for overhead wires. These benefits align with the broader objective of delivering a modern, efficient, and commuter-friendly metro system for Kanpur. Key Highlights of Kanpur Metro Rail Project: Kanpur Metro’s priority corridor was commissioned in a national record time of just 2 years and 1.5 months, showcasing efficient planning and execution. Role of UPMRCL and Vision for Uttar Pradesh: The project is being implemented by Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (UPMRCL), a joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of Uttar Pradesh. UPMRCL also oversees the Lucknow Metro and Agra Metro projects, positioning Uttar Pradesh as the state with the highest number of metro initiatives in the country. Kanpur Metro has also made history by becoming the first metro service in Uttar Pradesh to launch the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), enabling seamless travel across metros, buses, parking, and retail services nationwide. Conclusion: With steady progress in third rail installation and corridor development, Kanpur Metro is moving closer to delivering a reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly transit system. Backed by UPMRCL’s expertise and innovative features, the project reflects Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to modern urban mobility and improved quality of life for its growing cities. Source: UPMRC | Image Credit: UPMRC Timely insights, straight to your WhatsApp—stay updated with ease! Stay connected to the rail industry—timely news, straight to Telegram!
World Cement4 min readRebecca Long Pyper, Dome Technology, showcases how advanced dome engineering is transforming cement storage efficiency and sustainability at the Port of Tilbury. At the Port of Tilbury in Essex, UK, building-materials expert Holcim hired Dome Technology to build a DomeSilo, the backbone component in a project that promises economic and environmental benefits for the region. Holcim approached Dome Technology after deciding on a dome as its storage model of choice. With anticipated demand in mind, Holcim set ambitious goals and required a facility capable of operating around the clock to meet local market material demands. It was clear from the outset that the two companies would work well in partnership. Holcim’s vision resonated with Dome Technology’s team, and Dome Technology’s efficient construction methods with little material waste corresponded with Holcim’s sustainability values. The first item of business was to determine how to maximise the portside property – no small task,
Steel Industry News49 min readIntroduction: The Perfect Storm in Global Trade Section 1: Trade Imbalance Recovery or Illusion? Understanding 2025’s Paradoxical Trade Deficit The 2009 Baseline – Context for Comparison The 2025 Trade Deficit – A Year of Contrasts Regional Breakdown – Where America’s Trade Imbalance Concentrates The Agricultural Trade Crisis – A Hidden Dimension Section 2: The Dollar Devaluation – Understanding Currency Collapse in 2025 The Unprecedented Currency Decline Breaking the Bull Cycle – A Structural Shift Primary Drivers – A Confluence of Adverse Factors Impacts of Dollar Devaluation – Winners and Losers The Dollar’s Reserve Currency Status – Unchanged but Challenged Section 3: The Great Import Contraction – Understanding Volume Declines in American Trade The Severity of Import Volume Collapse Import Decline by Product Category – Sectoral Heterogeneity Geographic Trade Pattern Shifts – Permanent Restructuring The Quarterly Seasonality Collapse – A Critical Warning Signal Section 4: Tariff –