BEML, a major Indian engineering firm, is set to start making its own tunnel-boring machines (TBMs) instead of relying on Chinese imports.
They will begin with smaller TBMs for projects like metro rail and irrigation, aiming to boost India's self-reliance in infrastructure tech.
BEML to use homegrown 3.5-6.5m TBMs
BEML wants to use only homegrown technology, no imported kits, focusing on TBMs sized between 3.5 and 6.5 meters.
With the government aiming to invest up to $9.6 billion in tunneling projects over the next five years, BEML's chairman and Managing Director, Shantanu Roy, says the Indian TBM market could grow by 12% each year.
The company is even bringing in a global consultant to help build up local expertise and manufacturing strength.