ISEE Papers

KONE Expands Bengaluru Branch and South Regional Office

KONE Expands Bengaluru Branch and South Regional Office KONE Elevator India has expanded its Bengaluru Branch and South Regional Office in Hebbal, strengthening its sales, installation, service and modernisation capabilities across Karnataka. The facility was inaugurated by Amit Gossain, Managing Director, KONE Elevator India & South Asia, along with Murali Malayappan, Chairman and Managing Director, Shriram Properties Limited. The expanded office will support KONE’s operations in Mysuru, Mandya, Kolar, Tumakuru, Chamarajanagar and other parts of Karnataka. It will also serve as a regional leadership hub for the company’s South India business. Designed as an experience centre, the facility will showcase KONE’s elevator solutions, digital technologies and People Flow innovations for customers, developers and industry stakeholders. “Karnataka continues to be one of our strategic growth markets, supported by urbanisation, technology ecosystems and investments across residential, commercial and infrastructure development,” said Amit Gossain. “This expansion strengthens our ability to support customers across the state while providing regional leadership for our South India business.” KONE has worked on a range of commercial, healthcare, technology park and mixed-use developments in Karnataka, partnering with organisations and developers including IKEA, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Embassy Group, Sattva Group, Sobha Group, Shriram Properties, GE HealthCare and others. KONE has operated in India since 1984. Headquartered in Chennai, the company serves customers through more than 50 branches and employs over 5,500 people. Its manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur supports markets including India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Hiren Bathani

ISEE Profiles – Beyond Nuts & Bolts Hiren Bathani Chairman & Managing DirectorEpic Elevators Pvt. Ltd. From the outside, people often see business growth as a series of milestones—new factories, expanding teams, international exhibitions, or larger market presence. While I am proud of those achievements, the journey that truly defines me has been the personal transformation behind them. When I started Epic Elevators, my vision was simple: to prove that an Indian company could build products and solutions that matched global standards. The early years demanded more than technical knowledge—they demanded resilience. Every challenge, whether it was earning customer trust, building a capable team, or navigating uncertain markets, taught me that leadership is less about having all the answers and more about creating an environment where people believe in a shared purpose. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that success is never built alone. A strong organisation grows when people feel valued, empowered, and inspired to contribute beyond their job descriptions. Over the years, I have consciously invested time in mentoring young professionals, encouraging innovation, and fostering a culture where ideas are welcomed regardless of hierarchy. Watching individuals evolve into confident leaders has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. Outside the boardroom, I enjoy connecting with industry peers, participating in discussions, and learning from entrepreneurs across different sectors. These interactions constantly remind me that growth begins when we remain curious. I also believe that giving back to the industry—by sharing experiences, supporting collaboration, and encouraging indigenous manufacturing—is a responsibility rather than an option. As our organisation has expanded from a small team into a growing manufacturing enterprise with a global outlook, I have realised that every milestone carries a deeper responsibility. Growth should never come at the cost of values. Integrity, humility, and consistency remain the principles that guide every decision I make. If there is one message I would like to share with aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs, it is this: don’t chase recognition—chase excellence. Recognition follows naturally when your work creates genuine value for people. At the end of the day, the most meaningful legacy is not measured by the size of a business but by the lives you positively influence, the opportunities you create, and the trust you earn along the way. Brief Snapshot Hiren Bathani, Chairman & Managing Director of Epic Elevators Pvt. Ltd., has built his entrepreneurial journey on resilience, innovation, and people-first leadership. From establishing a homegrown manufacturing enterprise to fostering future leaders, he believes that lasting success is measured not only by business growth but by the trust earned, opportunities created, and positive impact made on people and the industry Contributor: Mr. Hiren Bathani

Bansal Family Announces ₹10,000 Crore FY27 Investment Plan Through M3M India and Smartworld Developers

Bansal Family Announces ₹10,000 Crore FY27 Investment Plan Through M3M India and Smartworld Developers The Bansal Family has announced an investment roadmap of approximately ₹10,000 crore for FY27 through its real estate platforms, M3M India and Smartworld Developers. The planned investment will be directed towards construction activity and strategic land acquisitions, supporting the group’s continued expansion across the National Capital Region. The investment plan comes as the family strengthens its presence across luxury and premium housing, branded residences, retail, office and emerging commercial developments. The group has stated that the capital deployment will support both ongoing execution and future growth opportunities. Through M3M India and Smartworld Developers, the Bansal Family has built a real estate portfolio with a Gross Development Value of more than ₹1.28 lakh crore. It also holds a fully paid land bank of over 3,000 acres across NCR, of which around 26% has been utilised so far, leaving a substantial pipeline for future development. The group has delivered more than 30.6 million sq. ft. across 34 projects, including over 14,000 homes. It currently has 40 ongoing projects under development, covering approximately 57.2 million sq. ft., and plans to deliver another 1,000 homes over the next three months. The companies have also expanded beyond residential development. The Bansal Family says it has developed over 11.2 million sq. ft. of retail space, positioning it among North India’s largest retail developers. In Noida, M3M has added M3M The Cullinan Emporium, a nearly one-million-sq.-ft. premium retail development. Luxury and branded residences are expected to remain an important part of the future portfolio. The family’s branded-residences pipeline spans nearly 6.9 million sq. ft. and includes partnerships with global names such as The Trump Organization, ELIE SAAB and Jacob & Co. According to the group, this segment has revenue potential of over ₹20,000 crore. Its latest ultra-luxury initiative, The Billionaire’s Block at Smart City Delhi Airport in Sector 111, Gurugram, is being positioned as an integrated luxury district. The development includes M3M Residences by ELIE SAAB and forms part of a wider ₹3,500 crore investment in ELIE SAAB-branded residential projects. The ₹10,000 crore FY27 plan signals continued confidence in NCR’s residential, retail and luxury real estate markets, while giving M3M India and Smartworld Developers greater scope to add land, accelerate construction and expand their next phase of development. Economic Times Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

KONE, AIO Partner to Support Smarter Cities in Egypt

KONE, Arab International Optronics Explore Smart Mobility Collaboration in Egypt KONE has signed a Letter of Intent with Arab International Optronics (AIO) to explore opportunities in smart mobility, sustainable infrastructure and advanced industrial solutions in Egypt. The agreement was signed in Cairo in the presence of Egypt’s Minister of Industry, Khaled Hashem, and Finland’s Ambassador to Egypt, Riikka Eela. The proposed collaboration brings together KONE’s elevator, escalator and People Flow expertise with AIO’s local industrial and technology capabilities. The two companies will assess opportunities related to future-ready mobility systems, infrastructure innovation and sustainable urban development. For KONE, the move reinforces Egypt’s importance as a growth and manufacturing market in the region. The company said its local engagement aligns with Egypt Vision 2030, particularly the push towards smarter, more sustainable urban communities. AIO, which supports local industrial development and advanced technology initiatives, sees the agreement as an opportunity to combine international know-how with Egyptian capabilities. Ahmed Fathi, Managing Director of KONE Egypt, said the Letter of Intent is intended to create long-term value for the local market by developing reliable mobility solutions suited to Egypt’s changing urban landscape. The agreement does not yet outline specific projects or commercial commitments. Instead, it establishes a framework for the companies to evaluate future collaboration in areas including smart infrastructure, industrial technology and people movement solutions. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Emaar India Places Delhi-NCR at the Centre of Its Growth Strategy

Emaar India Places Delhi-NCR at the Centre of Its Growth Strategy The Dubai-based developer has ruled out selling its Indian business and is exploring joint ventures to expand its residential portfolio Emaar Properties is signalling a long-term commitment to India, with Delhi-NCR expected to remain central to its expansion plans. The Dubai-based developer, known globally for landmark developments including the Burj Khalifa, has confirmed that it is no longer considering selling a stake in its Indian business. Instead, the company is evaluating joint ventures with major Indian business groups, including the Adani Group. The decision represents a shift from potential divestment to partnership-led expansion, reinforcing Emaar’s intention to grow its presence in one of the world’s largest real estate markets. From Stake Sale Discussions to Joint Ventures Emaar Properties had previously held discussions with several Indian companies regarding a possible stake sale in Emaar India. However, in a regulatory filing made to the Dubai Financial Market in September 2025, the company clarified that it was no longer pursuing the sale. It said that joint ventures with large Indian companies were being considered as an alternative growth strategy. Business Standard Such partnerships could allow Emaar to combine its international development expertise and brand recognition with the local market knowledge, land access and execution capabilities of established Indian groups. Emaar entered India in 2005 through a joint venture with MGF Development, reportedly investing approximately ₹8,500 crore. The partnership was later separated through a demerger, after which Emaar continued operating independently in the country. Gurugram Remains a Key Market Emaar India has developed a substantial portfolio of residential and commercial properties across Gurugram. Its recent projects indicate that the company continues to view Delhi-NCR as an important market for premium housing and commercial development. One of its major residential projects is Urban Ascent in Sector 112, Gurugram. Located near the Dwarka Expressway, the development includes 816 apartments and is expected to generate approximately ₹3,400 crore in revenue. The project is being developed through a joint development agreement with landowners, demonstrating how partnership-based models are already supporting Emaar’s expansion strategy. Another significant development is Urban Oasis in Sector 62 on Golf Course Extension Road. Emaar sold all 424 apartments offered during the first phase, generating sales revenue of approximately ₹1,723 crore. The launch reportedly received 4,259 expressions of interest, nearly ten times the number of homes available. Moneycontrol Emaar is also developing commercial properties such as Emaar Business District 114. The shop-cum-office development comprises 86 plots that can accommodate retail outlets, offices, restaurants and other commercial establishments across structures of up to five levels. Emaar India Why Delhi-NCR Matters Delhi-NCR, particularly Gurugram, has emerged as one of India’s most active markets for premium and luxury real estate. The expansion of the Dwarka Expressway, improving connectivity with Delhi and Indira Gandhi International Airport, continued commercial development and demand from affluent homebuyers have strengthened the region’s real estate prospects. Interest from non-resident Indians and investors has also contributed to demand for professionally managed, internationally positioned residential developments. For a global developer such as Emaar, Gurugram offers a combination of premium housing demand, large development opportunities and access to a growing base of high-income buyers. A Partnership-Led Growth Model Emaar’s decision to pursue joint ventures suggests that future expansion could be driven by collaborations rather than complete ownership of every development opportunity. This model can help developers reduce land acquisition risks, enter new locations more efficiently and benefit from the regulatory and operational experience of local partners. At the same time, Indian groups can gain access to Emaar’s global brand, development standards and experience in delivering large-scale premium projects. Although the details of any potential partnership have not yet been finalised, the strategic direction is clear: Emaar is looking to strengthen its Indian operations rather than exit the market. Wider Impact on the Built Environment Further residential expansion by Emaar could also create opportunities across the construction and building technology ecosystem. Premium high-rise developments increasingly require advanced elevator systems, destination-control technology, energy-efficient equipment, smart building integration and professionally managed maintenance services. Growth in luxury housing can therefore support demand across the elevator, escalator, façade, security, automation and building management sectors. Outlook Emaar’s continued investment reflects confidence in the long-term potential of Indian real estate, with Gurugram likely to remain one of its most important markets. If the company successfully establishes joint ventures with leading Indian groups, it could accelerate project launches and broaden its presence in Delhi-NCR and other major cities. For Delhi-NCR, the strategy is another indication that the region continues to attract global developers, institutional capital and premium real estate investment. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

“NCR Could Be Bigger Than Mumbai for Us”: Vikas Oberoi After ₹8,109 Crore Gurugram Debut

Vikas Oberoi Sets His Sights on Making NCR Bigger Than Mumbai for Oberoi Realty The Oberoi Realty chairman’s ambitious NCR strategy begins with ₹8,109 crore in sales bookings from Three Sixty North. Vikas Oberoi has made an emphatic entry into the National Capital Region. Under his leadership, Mumbai-based Oberoi Realty has recorded sales bookings worth ₹8,109 crore from Three Sixty North, its first residential project in Gurugram. The response has given Oberoi the confidence to position NCR as a market that could eventually equal, or even surpass, Mumbai for the company. For a developer whose identity has been closely associated with Mumbai’s premium real estate market, the Gurugram launch represents an important new chapter. A Debut That Exceeded Expectations Three Sixty North is being developed across approximately 14.8 acres in Sector 58 on Gurugram’s Golf Course Extension Road. The luxury development will comprise seven residential towers, Club Three Sixty North, and a boulevard featuring retail outlets and cafés. Homes in the project are priced from approximately ₹18 crore. According to Vikas Oberoi, the response exceeded the company’s expectations. Oberoi Realty reportedly received buyer interest representing an order book of nearly ₹30,000 crore, approximately four times the inventory it initially planned to sell. Prospective buyers were required to deposit between ₹40 lakh and ₹50 lakh while awaiting allotment, highlighting the depth of demand for the project. Vikas Oberoi’s Bigger NCR Vision The success of Three Sixty North is not being viewed as a standalone launch. For Vikas Oberoi, it is the foundation of a much larger regional strategy. Oberoi Realty plans to build a strong portfolio across NCR, with future opportunities being considered in both Gurugram and Noida. Oberoi believes the region could become as important as Mumbai, or potentially even larger, for the company over time. This ambition reflects the changing geography of India’s luxury housing market. While Mumbai remains one of the country’s most established premium residential destinations, Gurugram has rapidly emerged as a major centre for high-value developments and affluent buyers. Building on a Recognised Luxury Legacy The Three Sixty North identity draws from Three Sixty West, Oberoi Realty’s landmark luxury development in Worli, Mumbai. The project has attracted prominent business leaders, entrepreneurs and other high-profile buyers, while also recording several high-value transactions. Vikas Oberoi is now extending that luxury development philosophy to Gurugram, adapting it to a market shaped by larger residential communities, integrated amenities and growing demand for premium high-rise living. He has also recognised the contribution of DLF in establishing Gurugram’s real estate ecosystem. The city’s mature luxury market has created opportunities for developers from other regions to enter with large, high-value projects. Gurugram’s Luxury Market Supports the Ambition The numbers behind Gurugram’s luxury housing market strengthen Oberoi’s confidence. During 2025, the city recorded transactions worth approximately ₹24,120 crore for homes priced at ₹10 crore and above, based on data cited from India Sotheby’s International Realty and CRE Matrix. Around 1,494 homes in this price category were sold during the year. By comparison, 155 homes worth a combined ₹4,004 crore were sold in the segment in 2023. The rapid expansion signals that Gurugram is no longer simply an emerging luxury destination. It has developed the scale, buyer base and ecosystem required to support some of India’s most ambitious residential projects. A Significant Opportunity for Vertical Transportation Vikas Oberoi’s NCR expansion could also generate considerable opportunities for the elevator and building systems industries. A seven-tower luxury development requires vertical transportation solutions that go beyond basic movement. High-speed elevators, intelligent destination control, access integration, service lifts, low-noise operation and dependable maintenance will all be critical to the resident experience. As Oberoi Realty expands its NCR portfolio, its projects could contribute to growing demand for advanced elevator technologies designed for premium high-rise developments. With ₹8,109 crore in bookings from his first Gurugram launch, Vikas Oberoi has already made a strong opening statement. The larger story, however, is his ambition to build NCR into one of Oberoi Realty’s most important markets. Source: Livemint.com Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Prestige Estates Plans ₹58,000 Crore Launch Pipeline, ₹15,000 Crore Construction Investment in FY2026-27

Prestige Estates Plans ₹58,000 Crore Launch Pipeline, ₹15,000 Crore Construction Investment in FY2026-27 Prestige Estates Projects is preparing for a major expansion phase, with new launches planned across key Indian markets and a strong focus on residential, commercial and retail development. ₹58,000 Cr Proposed launch pipeline across major cities ₹15,000 Cr Estimated construction investment this fiscal 195 Mn Sq Ft Project pipeline across 128 developments Prestige Estates Projects is preparing for a major expansion phase in FY2026-27, with a proposed launch pipeline of around ₹58,000 crore across key Indian markets. The Bengaluru-based real estate developer is also expected to invest nearly ₹14,000 to ₹15,000 crore during the current fiscal year on construction activity across residential and commercial projects. The planned investment will cover developments in South India, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and Delhi-NCR. Major Allocation Toward Housing Projects According to the company, a large portion of the construction spend will be directed toward housing projects. Around ₹9,500 to ₹10,000 crore is expected to go into residential developments, while ₹4,500 to ₹5,000 crore will be allocated to commercial projects, including office complexes and shopping malls. The company’s focus appears to be on accelerating construction activity and ensuring timely delivery across its growing portfolio. Prestige Estates Projects Executive Director Zayd Noaman said the company remains focused on disciplined growth, calibrated expansion and timely execution. Strong FY2025-26 Performance The expansion comes after a strong FY2025-26 for Prestige Estates. The company recorded sales bookings of ₹30,024 crore during the year, marking a 76 percent increase over the previous fiscal. During the same period, its total construction spend stood at around ₹13,500 crore. For FY2026-27, the company has lined up a launch pipeline of nearly ₹58,000 crore across major cities. However, the actual launches will depend on regulatory and government approvals. Profit and Income Growth In the previous fiscal year, Prestige Estates launched 32 million sq ft of projects with sales booking potential of ₹27,350 crore. The company also reported a sharp increase in net profit, rising to ₹1,195.5 crore from ₹467.5 crore in FY2024-25. Total income increased to ₹13,195.5 crore from ₹7,735.5 crore in the previous year. Large Development Portfolio Across India Prestige Estates Projects has a presence across several major Indian cities. Since inception, the group has delivered 313 projects covering 206 million sq ft. It currently has a pipeline of 128 projects spread across 195 million sq ft. The company develops housing, commercial office complexes, shopping malls and hospitality projects. Why This Matters The company’s latest investment and launch plans reflect the continued momentum in India’s real estate market, especially in residential, commercial and mixed-use developments. For the broader building and infrastructure ecosystem, this also points to stronger demand for construction services, building systems, vertical transportation, facility management and long-term project execution capabilities. Source: PTI wire update as published by RealtyNXT. This article has been rewritten and edited for ISEE Papers. © ISEE Papers. This article is intended for industry news and information purposes. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Korea Lift Safety Institute Backs Two-Line Escalator Riding to Improve Safety and Crowd Movement

Escalator Safety News Korea Lift Safety Institute Backs Two-Line Escalator Riding to Improve Safety and Crowd Movement South Korea is reviving its two-line escalator riding campaign after 11 years, reopening a major public debate on safety, machine wear and transport efficiency in busy public spaces. South Korea is bringing back its two-line escalator riding campaign, a move backed by the Korea Lift Safety Institute and supported by experts who say the practice can help reduce accidents, limit uneven mechanical wear and improve crowd flow. The campaign returns after 11 years and comes at a time when the country is once again debating whether passengers should stand on one side of an escalator or use both sides. For decades, many commuters have followed the habit of standing on one side while leaving the other side open for people who want to walk. While this habit has often been seen as considerate, experts now say it creates a safety and efficiency problem. The concern is not only about how people move, but also about how escalators are designed to carry weight. The key message is simple: two-line riding can make escalators safer for passengers, healthier for machines and more efficient during crowded periods. A Policy That Has Changed Direction Before South Korea’s escalator policy has shifted several times over the years. Single-line riding was recommended in the late 1990s. The country returned to two-line riding in 2007, before the campaign was eventually scrapped in 2015. The latest revival is being described as a science-based decision rather than a simple etiquette campaign. Experts believe the change is necessary because the long-standing single-line habit has placed repeated stress on escalators and may have increased the risk of accidents. 46% Of 597 subway station fall incidents from 2020 to 2024 occurred on escalators, according to Seoul Metro. 95%+ Higher wear was found on right-side escalator components compared with the left side in a 2026 Korea Lift Safety Institute study. 30% Increase in carrying capacity was observed during a 2016 London Underground experiment at Holborn Station. Why Single-Line Riding Can Damage Escalators Mechanical engineers warn that escalators are precision machines designed to carry loads evenly across both sides. When most passengers stand on one side and the other side is used for walking, the machine experiences uneven loading. Kim Eui-soo, professor of mechanical engineering at Korea National University of Transportation, explained that continued single-line riding can cause one-sided wear of rollers and rails, along with unequal elongation between the left and right chains. Over time, these issues can increase the risk of serious mechanical failure. Another concern is dynamic load. When a person stands still, the load on the escalator is treated as a normal static load. But walking can raise the load to around three times that level, while running can increase it to nearly seven or eight times. This repeated impact can accelerate metal fatigue and place extra stress on the escalator system. Escalators are designed to move people safely, not to function as running tracks. Expert view highlighted in the report The Efficiency Debate Supporters of single-line riding often argue that keeping one side open helps people move faster. However, studies and crowd-flow experts suggest that this may not be true during busy periods. In practice, only about 25% of subway users walk on escalators. This means the standing side carries most passengers, while the walking side often remains underused. The result is a crowded standing lane and an inefficiently used walking lane. Michael Foo, a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Maryland who studies crowd flow on escalators, noted that reserving one lane only for walkers creates a resource imbalance. Since the majority of passengers stand, using only one lane for them reduces the total movement capacity of the escalator. Single-Line Riding One side becomes crowded, the walking lane is underused and uneven load can increase mechanical stress on escalator parts. Two-Line Riding Both sides are used, weight is distributed more evenly and more people can move through the escalator during peak congestion. What Global Examples Show International examples support the idea that two-line riding can improve passenger movement in crowded systems. In 2016, an experiment at Holborn Station on the London Underground showed that asking passengers to stand on both sides increased carrying capacity by about 30% during the same time period. Taipei introduced two-line escalator riding in 2005 and is often cited as a successful example in Asia. In Japan, Saitama Prefecture introduced an ordinance in 2021 that reduced walking on escalators by 20%. However, because the rule did not include penalties, old behaviour gradually returned within a year. Researchers in Japan and China have also found that two-line riding becomes more beneficial as congestion increases. A 2020 statistical physics model by a Japanese research team and a 2018 simulation study by a Chinese group both reached similar conclusions. Experts Call for Flexible Rules Experts believe the success of South Korea’s campaign will depend on enforcement and practical design. Some have suggested that local ordinances with meaningful penalties may be needed if awareness campaigns alone do not change public behaviour. However, many also believe that a rigid one-size-fits-all rule may not be ideal. Instead, they recommend a conditional approach based on congestion levels, escalator length and real-time passenger flow. 1 Use two-line riding during peak congestion to increase carrying capacity and reduce bottlenecks. 2 Encourage passengers not to walk or run on escalators, especially in crowded stations. 3 Consider traffic light-style guidance that advises passengers based on real-time crowd conditions. 4 Support awareness campaigns with stronger local enforcement where needed. The Bigger Message South Korea’s renewed two-line escalator campaign is not only about changing commuter etiquette. It is about using safety data, engineering evidence and crowd-flow science to reduce accidents, protect equipment and move people more efficiently in public transport spaces.

BIS Highlights NBCS 2026 as India Prepares for Safer Vertical Growth

BIS Highlights NBCS 2026 as India Prepares for Safer Vertical Growth As Indian cities continue to rise higher, the conversation around urban development is shifting from speed of construction to safety, resilience and long-term sustainability. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has brought this discussion into focus through a detailed interview with Shri Sanjay Pant, DDG Standardization, on the newly released National Building Construction Standards 2026 (NBCS 2026). The interview, published on the official BIS YouTube channel, explains how NBCS 2026 aims to support India’s rapidly expanding built environment by strengthening building safety, improving construction practices and preparing the country for the infrastructure needs of Viksit Bharat 2047. NBCS 2026 is being positioned as a major construction blueprint for India’s next phase of urban and infrastructure growth. It covers a wide range of issues, from preventing structural collapses and improving fire safety to regulating mixed-use buildings, healthcare infrastructure, glass façades, EV charging infrastructure and emerging construction technologies. One of the most important themes of the discussion is safety. Shri Pant explains that the standards are built around four major pillars: structural safety, fire safety, public health safety and construction safety. These areas are especially critical as Indian cities witness a sharp rise in high-rise residential towers, commercial complexes, hospitals, hotels and mixed-use developments. The relevance of the new standards becomes even stronger in the context of recent building collapses and fire-related incidents across the country. NBCS 2026 places strong emphasis on compliance, enforcement support, state-level adoption and training. The objective is not only to create a technical document, but to ensure that the standards are understood and applied by those involved in planning, designing, constructing and approving buildings. A major focus area is fire safety in high-rise and complex buildings. With dense urbanisation and taller buildings becoming common, evacuation planning, fire compartmentalisation, safe escape routes and building-specific fire safety measures are becoming essential. NBCS 2026 addresses these concerns by providing clearer guidance for different building types and occupancies. The standards also bring important changes for healthcare infrastructure. Earlier height-related limitations for hospitals are being relooked in favour of safer technical solutions. The interview highlights the role of progressive horizontal evacuation and strict fire compartmentalisation in hospital buildings. This is significant for India, where urban hospitals increasingly need to expand vertically due to limited land availability. Seismic safety is another key area covered under NBCS 2026. India has diverse geological and seismic zones, which means buildings cannot follow a one-size-fits-all approach. The standards focus on earthquake-resistant design, rapid visual screening, retrofitting of older structures and progressive auditing of lifeline buildings. This is especially important for public buildings, hospitals, schools and other critical infrastructure. NBCS 2026 also addresses the realities of modern urban architecture. Provisions related to structural glazing, curtain walls and glass façade buildings reflect the changing skyline of Indian cities. These design elements may improve aesthetics and energy performance, but they also require clear safety, fire protection and maintenance considerations. The inclusion of EV charging infrastructure and basement parking guidelines shows that the standards are also responding to changes in mobility and building use. As electric vehicles become more common, residential and commercial buildings will need safer and better-planned charging infrastructure, especially in basement and parking areas. Another future-facing feature is the inclusion of provisions for 3D-printed concrete construction. This signals that India’s building standards are beginning to account for new construction methods and global technologies, while still keeping safety and compliance at the centre. For the elevator and escalator industry, NBCS 2026 is especially relevant. As buildings become taller, denser and more mixed-use in nature, vertical transportation is no longer just a convenience. It becomes part of the building’s safety, accessibility, emergency movement and operational planning. High-rise residential towers, hospitals, commercial complexes and mixed-use developments all depend on efficient elevator planning. Passenger movement, stretcher movement, goods movement, emergency access, evacuation strategy, fire safety integration and maintenance access must all work within the larger building safety framework. This makes NBCS 2026 an important reference point for architects, developers, consultants, elevator companies, fire safety professionals and urban planners. The standards reinforce the idea that vertical growth must be supported by safer building systems and better coordination between structure, services and mobility. The interview also highlights India’s growing role in international standardization. According to Shri Pant, India is moving from being a follower of global standards to becoming a leader in this space. Developing nations across Africa and Latin America are also looking at Indian standards and BIS frameworks as reference models for their own national codes. As India moves towards Viksit Bharat 2047, NBCS 2026 could become one of the most important technical foundations for the country’s built environment. It reflects the need for buildings that are not only taller and more advanced, but also safer, more resilient and more sustainable. For a country experiencing rapid vertical growth, NBCS 2026 sends a clear message: the future of Indian construction must be built on safety, compliance and long-term responsibility. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer

Schindler Launches ReStore and ReNew Modernization Packages for Aging Hydraulic Elevators in the U.S.

Schindler Launches ReStore and ReNew Modernization Packages for Aging Hydraulic Elevators in the U.S. Morristown, New Jersey, May 2026: Schindler Elevator Corporation has introduced two new modernization packages, Schindler ReStore and Schindler ReNew, aimed at upgrading aging hydraulic elevator systems across the United States. The launch comes at a time when many older buildings are looking for faster, more practical ways to improve elevator performance, safety, reliability and code compliance without opting for a complete elevator replacement. Both packages are pre-engineered solutions designed to reduce the time required from order placement to completed modernization. The focus is on helping building owners replace outdated elevator controls with modern microprocessor-based technology and updated components. Schindler ReStore is positioned as the entry modernization package. It includes a new Schindler controller with softstarter, standard hall fixtures and car station, hoistway and machine room wiring, digital connectivity and an optional door operator upgrade. Schindler ReNew builds on the ReStore package by adding a submersible power unit with a hush kit noise suppressor. This makes it a more comprehensive option for properties looking to improve both performance and passenger experience. According to Schindler, the packages are designed to help building owners take a more proactive approach to elevator modernization. Instead of waiting for repeated breakdowns, parts obsolescence or rising maintenance costs, owners can plan upgrades in a more controlled and cost-efficient manner. Joe Bera, Senior Vice President of Modernization Sales at Schindler Elevator Corporation, said the new solutions are intended to improve reliability, reduce unexpected costs and give customers better control over planning and budgeting. The company’s modernization work is already present across several major facilities and transit environments in the U.S., including Miami International Airport. With ReStore and ReNew, Schindler is strengthening its modernization portfolio for the hydraulic elevator segment, a category that continues to represent a large installed base in low- and mid-rise buildings across the American market. The move also reflects a broader industry trend: elevator companies are increasingly focusing on modernization as buildings seek safer, more connected and more efficient vertical transportation systems without replacing existing equipment entirely. Disclaimer: This article is published for informational and editorial purposes only. Views expressed may not reflect those of ISEE Papers. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. For full details, please read our complete disclaimer here: ISEE Papers Website Disclaimer