In spite of the positive sentiments in the construction and infrastructure industry, there are some risk factors visible which could affect the growth of the industry temporarily. Market research agency CRISIL Research points towards some risk factors in the roads and highways sector which is said to be the most happening sector in infrastructure developments. CRISIL has lowered its execution forecast in National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects for fiscal 2019 to 3,600-3,800 km from earlier anticipated 4,300 km as around 800 km of execution is at risk this fiscal because many hybrid annuity model (HAM) projects are still awaiting appointed dates seven months after they were awarded, on account of delays in land acquisition or regulatory clearances. Off-Highway Research forecasts a dip in construction equipment sales for next year due to the upcoming general elections in 2019. However, the sales are expected to go up further in the following years, once the market is stabilised after the temporary hiccups. So the opportunity is open for the construction equipment market in the coming years in spite of some risks involved. In the Cover Story section, the stakeholders of the construction equipment market speak on how the market scenario is shaping up and how they are prepared to surge ahead.

The fifth edition of bauma CONEXPO INDIA is around the corner to showcase the strength of technology and innovation to the global audience on a common platform at the HUDA Ground in Gurgaon near New Delhi. The expo is being held at a time when the industry is positive on future. The whole value chain is present with a positive outlook on the scenario. The industry has come out of the dilemma created by two major reformative steps of demonetisation and GST. So, this year the bauma exhibition could be more interesting to the OEMs and customers. According to the organisers, bauma CONEXPO INDIA 2018 is 30 per cent bigger than the previous edition. Also there are new features added to this year's event, such as Buyer-Seller Meet. The Special Feature section elaborates more on bauma CONEXPO INDIA, how the exhibitors are prepared for the show, and their views on the progress of the industry.

It's now showtime again for the Indian construction equipment industry. This is the time for the stakeholders to come together on a platform to discuss and deliberate the issues faced by the industry, come out with solutions and direct the policy makers to do the needful for the construction and infrastructure industry stay stronger and lead the growth of the country.

We wish all the exhibitors and visitors a successful bauma!

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Cover photo courtesy: UMW Holdings