Considering the speed and the targets set by the government for the completion of the infrastructure projects, Kranthi Kumar Ravuri, Managing Director, Vibrant Construction Equipment Pvt. Ltd., suggests that the equipment required for such high-demand situations should be rugged, easy to operate, cost-effective, and require minimum maintenance.

What are the present procurement trends in construction equipment for efficient project completion?

Current construction procurement trends involve investing in manufacturers who can provide high-quality, cost-effective equipment with minimal downtime and excellent after-sales support.

How do you need training and skill development to measure equipment maintenance and safety?

Maintenance and safety are the most critical factors for the operation of any equipment. Considering the present work demand for the completion of projects, most customers are working under tremendous pressure to meet their deadlines. The equipment in the field will be used around the clock, affecting the working conditions. Under these pressures, the equipment is prone to accidents, so it is essential to impart proper and effective skill and safety training to all the field staff to avoid accidents and ensure the uptime of the equipment.

What are the procurement challenges in your business? What measures are being taken to iron out those issues?

Procurement under the present scenario is a very challenging factor. Sale suffers only when the market demands the best product at the best price. Considering this challenge in any business, the procurement process has to be clearly defined and worked out professionally to decide the price, considering all the factors like price, delivery, and payment terms.

How is the equipment industry faring in terms of exports?  

The export market is not encouraging, and the trend is not favourable. Most countries are still either recouping from the COVID situation or under monetary constraints, so the market is still dull, and the inquiry levels are low. Considering this instability in the export market, prices are lower than the earliest prevailing price, and due to a limited scope and shrinking market size, competition has increased. For survival, equipment prices are being compromised. The export market scenario has yet to return to its pre-Covid level.

With the infrastructure sector becoming smart and intelligent, which technologies drive efficiency at project sites?

As previously stated, the infrastructure sector market in India is currently on the rise, with many major infrastructure projects being announced and with short completion deadlines. Hence, technology plays a vital role in the execution and completion of projects. The equipment manufacturers have to be aware of the changing market requirements and demand for cost-effective and reliable equipment to suit the customer’s needs and have to adapt to it in a short period. As most of the project sites are remotely located, reaching them is very difficult when there is a breakdown. This technology comes into effect for an immediate solution to customers to rectify the plant and get it started. So, connectivity to the customer is vital.