The recent inauguration of the redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport marks a pivotal moment for Maldives, moving the country closer to its goal of economic decentralisation and its international openness. This vast overhaul of the infrastructure has been a complex, technical and a managerial challenge for Assystem in India, who served as the Project Management Consultancy (PMC).

This project was a crucial one, transforming a primarily domestic airstrip into a major international gateway capable of handling up to 1.3 million passengers annually.

Assystem in India’s involvement was critical across the entire project lifecycle, ensuring the successful transformation of the airport through stringent quality and safety standards.

Our complete scope of work included:

• Project Management – leading and coordinating all core project management activities
• Design & Engineering Oversight – providing thorough design checking and validation
• Construction Supervision & Quality Assurance
  • Supervising construction, inspection, and progress monitoring
  • Overseeing testing, commissioning, and finalisation of As-Built Drawings
  • Finalising method statements and ensuring robust construction methodologies
  • Conducting quality and safety control throughout the execution phase
• Resource and Equipment Verification
  • Checking the availability and adequacy of the Contractor’s manpower, materials and machinery
  • Inspecting major equipment at the manufacturing plants prior to delivery
• Post-Commissioning Support – Conducting necessary surveys during the Defects Liability Period

Our strategic and proactive coordination was instrumental in mitigating project risks, accelerating timely decision-making, and elevating overall quality, resulting in the successful realization of the client’s vision for a safe, modern, and sustainable airport.

Working on a remote island meant the team had to be flexible enough to adapt to the various problems encountered in the field.

• Implementation of a Phased Construction Approach: The primary challenge was the need to maintain uninterrupted flight operations. initially construct a portion of the proposed runway equivalent in length to the existing runway (i.e., half of the proposed total runway length). The remaining half, along with the permanent apron, was to be constructed after commissioning and taking over of the first half of the runway and the temporary apron. This phased approach was successfully implemented, thereby resolving the issue of maintaining ongoing flight operations.
• Logistics & Material Handling: Due to difficulties in getting materials to the site a temporary jetty was constructed, thereby resolving the supply chain bottleneck and ensuring timely completion.

Celebrated as “Gateway to the North”, Hanimadhoo International Airport a symbol of economic transformation for the orthern atolls.

• The upgrade directly connects the northern atolls to the world. This is essential for the Maldivian government’s plan to decentralize development.
• The new 2,465-meter runway can now handle international narrow-body jets, like the Airbus A320. This means tourists visiting the north can fly straight in without having to transfer flights from Malé first.
• By using strategically placed glass panels and skylights, the building uses a lot of natural sunlight; significantly reducing the airport’s overall carbon footprint.
• Better access will help key local industries, including tourism, fishing, and agriculture. This will not only create new local jobs, it will also make it easier for local products to reach global markets.
• The newly renovated airport with now act as a vital link between the archipelago and key regional markets like India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.

For the residents of Ranchi, a daily commute that was once a source of frustration has now become a smooth and quick journey. This transformation is thanks to the new 2.34 km elevated corridor linking Mecon Roundabout (Doranda) to Siramtoli, via Rajendra Chowk. At the heart of this project are two unique cable-stayed bridges, designed by Assystem in India, which solved complex engineering puzzles to ease the city’s traffic.

Designing these bridges was no simple task. It required the engineering team to overcome two very different, but equally difficult, challenges.

• Cable-Stayed Bridge on Harmu River – Situated in a densely packed area, the location already had an existing old bridge. In addition, the presence of buildings left very little room to work with. Placing the massive foundations and pylons that would hold up a cable-stayed bridge seemed impossible. The challenge was to fit the design perfectly into this tight urban corridor, without disturbing the daily life of the area.
• The Railway Over Bridge (ROB) – The second bridge had to cross directly over a busy railway line. The critical rule was simple but tough: train movement could not be stopped. This meant all the major work, from lifting heavy sections, to installing cables, and placing the bridge deck, had to be done during night-time windows, in perfect coordination with Indian Railways.

Two different construction methodologies were adopted for the project. On one side, panels were supported by temporary trestles, while on the other side, the cantilever construction method was employed. This required precise alignment and accurate matching of the segments from both sides.

• Reduced Traffic: This project has dramatically cut travel times to the railway station and airport from 30 minutes to almost 10 minutes. This has also led to a decrease in air and noise pollution levels in the area.
• Boosting Connectivity: The improved link to the railway station and airport has resulted to better and efficient connectivity.

The cable-stayed bridges are not just structures of steel and concrete; they symbolise progress. For Assystem this project was a means to show how innovative engineering can solve urban problems while building a foundation for a sustainable present.

Assystem India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTPC Limited, India’s largest power utility, to strengthen engineering support and capability development for nuclear power projects. The agreement was formalized in a signing ceremony held in Mumbai on August 22, 2025. 

This strategic collaboration aims to leverage Assystem’s extensive International expertise in Nuclear Engineering to support NTPC’s plans for developing and operating nuclear power plants across the country. With this, both the organisation will be contributing significantly towards the Prime Minister of India’s vision of achieving 100 GW energy capacity in Nuclear sector by 2047.  

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Ashish Tandon, Managing Director – Assystem in India, said – “This is a big step towards strengthening the Nuclear Energy sector in India. We are proud to join forces with NTPC, the organisation that has powered India’s growth for decades, combining our global nuclear engineering expertise with their legacy to help build a new fleet of nuclear power plants across India. It’s a shared commitment to powering the nation’s development with clean, reliable, low-carbon electricity.” 

Bolstering a National Priority 

The Indian nuclear energy sector is witnessing a period of unprecedented growth, aligned with the nation’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. The government has approved the development of ten indigenous pressurized heavy-water reactors (PHWRs) and is actively exploring new sites and technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs). This expansion is critical for ensuring the country’s energy security and clean energy transition. 

The partnership with NTPC is poised to be a key enabler for this national priority. It will help build a robust engineering and project management foundation, ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely execution of future nuclear projects. 

Commitment to a Low-Carbon World 

Assystem is deeply committed to supporting the global transition to low-carbon electricity. As an independent engineering group with over 60 years of experience in the global nuclear energy sector, Assystem provides critical expertise needed to design, build, and maintain safe and reliable nuclear assets. This collaboration with NTPC underscores its dedication to partnering with Indian energy leaders to deploy the technologies essential for building a sustainable and low-carbon world. 

In what marked as a major milestone for Madhya Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the commercial operations of the Indore Metro Rail Project Phase 1 virtually. The newly operational 5.8 km elevated corridor connects Gandhinagar Station and Station No. 3 of the Super Corridor. This project is a major step in improving urban mobility and sustainable infrastructure in the state. 

A New Era of Urban Mobility in Madhya Pradesh

Part of mass rapid transit system (MRTS), the Indore Metro Rail Project caters to a population of around 35 lakhs. The first phase of this project –

• includes a 5.8 km viaduct (elevated corridor) and 5 elevated stations from Gandhinagar to Super Corridor Station 3,
• boosts regional connectivity,
• reduces traffic congestion, and
• directly improves quality of life, and supporting the city’s growth in the years to come.

 Assystem India’s Key Role in The Project

A key contributor in this metro project, Assystem India has provided detailed design consultancy services for the elevated viaducts & metro stations – covering geotechnical, structural, architectural, and MEP disciplines. Assystem ensured that the designs were in accordance with green building standards and reflected the latest industry practices. The eco-friendly stations which will be powered by solar PV, support global sustainability goal of making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable (SDG 11).

A key partner in India’s rapidly growing metro network, Assystem India is committed to bringing global engineering excellence to critical infrastructure projects. The successful completion of Indore Metro’s first phase highlights the company’s commitment to:

• enhancing urban connectivity through efficient metro systems,
• promoting infrastructure with sustainable design practices (creation of structures which are energy-efficient, flexible, durable and have minimal negative impact on environment), and
• supporting India’s vision for modern, high-capacity public transport.

The new Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu was recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking the opening of India’s first vertical-lift railway sea bridge. The 2.08km structure, designed by Assystem India, replaces a century-old corrosion damaged bridge on Pamban Island. During the inaugural ceremony, PM Modi hailed the project as the union of technology and tradition.

Engineering Resilience Against Odds

Build to withstand harsh marine environment, seismic activity, and cyclonic winds 1, the new Pamban bridge features a revolutionary 72.5-meter vertical-lift span – the first of its kind in India. Assystem India was actively involved in designing the substructure and foundation for both the main lift span bridge and the approach bridge. In addition, the team also worked on the structure’s corrosion protection plan.

The successful commissioning of the engineering marvel required the engineering team to overcome extreme challenges, including:

• Advanced corrosion protection: Securing the base layer with a zinc thermal projection metal coating, followed by an epoxy sealant intermediate layer, and a polysiloxane finishing layer.
• Smart mechanics: Low-maintenance electric motors and gearboxes for seamless operations.
• Global collaboration: Executed amid COVID-19 travel restrictions through meticulous remote project management.

Key Features & Benefits of the New Pamban Bridge:

• Located at Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, India, the bridge connects Rameswaram island with the main land.
• The 72.5 m navigational span lifts up to 17 mts, allowing passage to larger ships and vessels, significantly boosting regional transportation and economic development.
• The moveable bridge also allows transit of local fishing boats, supporting the livelihood of nearly 83,000 local inhabitants.
• The design service life of the bridge is 100 years ensures long-term safety and reduces lifecycle costs

Why This Bridge Matters?

The new Pamban Bridge showcases India’s efforts to build top-quality infrastructure. For Assystem, this project exemplifies engineering excellence that marries innovation with empathy for communities.

Assystem in India is proud to contribute to the development of India’s infrastructure with the 6-laning of the Etawah-Chakeri (Kanpur) Expressway, covering a 160 km stretch from km 323.475 to km 483.687. This ambitious project aims to bolster economic growth, create employment opportunities, and improve connectivity in the region.

The project’s scope involves a comprehensive review of the entire project preparation and implementation. Assystem is tasked with ensuring the Concessionaire’s designs adhere to standards, supervising on-site execution, and monitoring project performance. The company is also responsible for environmental compliance, safety audits, traffic management, and integrating advanced systems such as Electronic Toll Collection and Advanced Traffic Management Systems.

Key Impact:

Beyond technical oversight, the project is expected to drive regional development. It will facilitate:

• Promoting industrial, agricultural, and commercial development.
• Creating over 3,400 jobs, with a focus on local hiring.
• Easier access to social infrastructure and reduced travel times.
• Easing congestion along a vital stretch of NH-2.

Debasis Chakrabarty, Roads & Highways – Business Unit Head said, “Assystem’s involvement underscores its commitment to leveraging expertise for transformative projects that support the country’s development goals. We are proud to be at the forefront of India’s journey toward modern and efficient infrastructure!”

Assystem in India has taken a significant step toward revolutionizing urban mobility in the city of Agra. Our Metro & Rails team is working on providing Design and Engineering Consultation Services for the construction of elevated viaducts and station structures on the Agra Metro line. The project is set to redefine public transport in Agra while prioritizing environmental sustainability and urban inclusivity.

The Agra Metro Rail project, spanning 30 kilometers with 27 stations, is designed to transform urban mobility in a city that attracts nearly 10 million tourists annually. By offering a reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation, the metro system aims to reduce traffic congestion, particularly in the city center where average journey speeds are less than 10 km/h.

Assystem’s contribution to the Agra Metro project encompasses an extensive range of design and engineering tasks, including:

• Design of Superstructure, Pier, Pier Cap & Foundation for Steel Composite Spans.
• 45m span crossing defense land at Chainage: 1.2km bridges.
• 45m span crossing the railway line at Ch: 3.8Km bridges.
• 60m span crossing the railway line at Ch: 6.3km bridges.

This includes the designing of typical station structures such as platforms, concourse, and platform levels.

These services highlight Assystem’s expertise in delivering innovative and sustainable solutions for complex infrastructure projects.

Key environmental and social benefits of the project include:

• The project is expected to decrease CO2 emissions in the city by up to 67% (Source: The Economics Time).
• By promoting the use of sustainable public transport, the metro will alleviate pressure on the city’s roads and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
• Incorporating features to enhance accessibility and safety, particularly for women. Impressively, over 49% of the metro’s train drivers are women, reflecting a commitment to gender equity.

Addressing India’s Urbanization Challenges

With over 40% of India’s population expected to reside in cities by 2030 due to rural-urban migration and natural growth, the demand for sustainable and efficient public transport systems has never been greater. Road vehicles currently contribute to over 70% of transport-related greenhouse gas emissions, underscoring the importance of projects like the Agra Metro in mitigating the environmental impact of urbanization.

The Agra Metro, anticipated to be fully operational by 2026, exemplifies how strategic investments in public transport can address challenges such as mobility, pollution, and congestion while creating opportunities for sustainable growth and development.

Vikas Chopra, Chief Operations Officer at Assystem in India said, “By integrating innovative engineering solutions with a vision for a greener future, Assystem in India is playing a pivotal role in reshaping Agra’s transport landscape. The project promises to not only improve daily commutes but also foster economic growth, enhance social equity, and protect the environment for future generations.”

Assystem in India is proud to contribute to the development of Bhopal’s infrastructure through its involvement in the Bhopal Metro project. As part of this transformative initiative, Assystem is providing consultancy services for architectural finishes, civil and structural work, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) services for the design and construction of eight elevated metro stations, including viaduct portions and transition spans.

Known as the Bhoj Metro, the Bhopal Metro is a rapid transit system designed to cover 104.87 kilometers across six corridors. The first phase of the project focuses on 28 kilometers across Lines 2 and 5, with a combination of on-road, elevated, and underground sections.

Assystem’s role in this ambitious project encompasses:

• Preparation of comprehensive engineering designs as outlined in the RFP for architectural, structural, and MEP services.
• Development of detailed general arrangement drawings, including bearing locations.
• Creation of construction drawings for all works within Assystem’s scope.
• Obtaining design approvals from the Design Verification Team and the General Consultant.
• Preparation and submission of As-Built Drawings to ensure seamless project documentation.
• Delivery of all design and construction outputs on a BIM platform for enhanced efficiency and integration.
• Periodic site visits to provide technical support during various construction stages.

The project aims to establish Bhopal as a safer, more business-friendly city with low-carbon, climate-resilient urban infrastructure. By improving access to amenities and employment opportunities, the Bhopal Metro will play a pivotal role in the city’s development.

• The project will create jobs during both construction and operations, significantly boosting the local economy.
• The metro will streamline urban mobility, leading to shorter travel times and lower transportation costs for daily commuters.
• By reducing vehicular traffic, the metro will lower emissions and contribute to cleaner air in Bhopal.
• The metro system will ease congestion on the city’s roads, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
• The metro will serve as a catalyst for modernizing the city’s infrastructure, promoting urban development and economic activity.
• Designed with sustainability and efficiency at its core, the Bhopal Metro reflects a commitment to environmentally responsible urban planning.

Assystem’s expertise in delivering complex engineering solutions aligns perfectly with the vision of the Bhopal Metro. By integrating innovative design methodologies and sustainable practices, Assystem is helping shape a future-ready Bhopal.

Abhijeet Desai, Divisional Head, Buildings & Architecture said, “The Bhopal Metro is not just a transportation project – it is a transformative step toward redefining urban living, fostering economic growth, and ensuring a greener future for the city and its residents.”

Assystem is all set to revolutionize The Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project (BSRP), spearheaded by the Karnataka Rail Infrastructure Development Company Limited (KRIDE). Designed to address the city’s pressing traffic congestion and provide seamless connectivity to nearby towns and satellite cities, the BSRP project is a major step toward sustainable urban mobility.

Assystem in India is proud to contribute to this transformative project by undertaking detail design and construction supervision services for nine stations on Corridor-4A. The scope of work includes:

• Detailed design and site supervision of one elevated station and eight at-grade stations.
• Oversee civil, structural, and architectural finishes.
• Entry/exit structures, steel foot overbridges (FOBs), roof structures, and pre-engineered building (PEB) works.
• Comprehensive E&M works.
• Detailed Design & Engineering (DDC) for associated project components.

BSRP, under the ownership of Indian Railways, features a network of four railway lines spanning approximately 148 to 150 kilometers. The railway system, constructed on a broad-gauge track, is set to become an advanced public transportation solution for Bengaluru and its surrounding areas. With an anticipated completion year of 2026, this project aims to cater to over one million passengers daily, significantly reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions.

The significance of the K-RIDE project is humongous as the project’s integration with other transportation systems is a key highlight, ensuring passengers can easily switch between various modes of transport. This interconnected approach promotes sustainable mobility and addresses the city’s burgeoning transportation needs.

Moreover, K-RIDE plans to transform 57 stations into Smart Station Hubs. These hubs will integrate commercial, retail, hospitality, and workspace facilities, fostering employment opportunities and aligning with India’s Make in India initiative.

The BSRP is expected to remarkably enhance Bengaluru’s infrastructure and quality of life:

• Seamlessly links Bengaluru to its suburbs, satellite towns, and villages.
• Reduces travel costs and commute times.
• Offers an eco-friendly transport alternative, decreasing the city’s carbon footprint.
• Multifunctional spaces for shopping, working, and entertainment, driving economic growth and job creation.

The Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project is more than just a transportation initiative—it is a step toward transforming Bengaluru into a model for urban mobility and sustainable development. Assystem India is honored to play a pivotal role in this journey.

Vikas Chopra, Chief Operations Officer at Assystem in India said, “As a global leader in engineering and project management, Assystem remains committed to delivering sustainable and innovative infrastructure solutions. Our collaboration with K-RIDE exemplifies our expertise in creating efficient, future-ready transportation systems that positively impact communities and the environment.”

Paradip Port, a vital natural deep-water port on India’s east coast, is setting new benchmarks in infrastructure development. Strategically located between Kolkata and Visakhapatnam, the port is emerging as a key player in India’s sustainable maritime future. Assystem is proud to have contributed to this transformative journey by delivering design and project management consultancy services for a state-of-the-art berth infrastructure project.

Paradip Port is a major port in the state of Odisha and acts as, a vital link for trade in eastern and central India that handles a large portion of the east coast’s sea trade. Its strategic location has made Paradip port a critical hub in India’s maritime sector and plays a key role in facilitating international trade.

Assystem provided the design and PMC services for a new berth on BOT basis. The project features cutting-edge infrastructure, including:

• Rail-Mounted Grab Ship Unloaders with a capacity of 2750 tph.
• Three Yard Conveyors with a rated capacity of 5500 tph.
• Three Stacker-cum-Reclaimers, each handling up to 5500 tph.
• A modern Rapid Loading System, peak capacity of 4500 tph, supported by silos of 875 tons each.
• Innovative berth structures and retaining systems for improved efficiency.

The port faced significant congestion due to a 16% rise in import traffic in 2014. Assystem’s solutions tackled increased imports by enhancing the handling capabilities and expanding berth productivity.

From terminal layout design and geotechnical investigations to detailed engineering and construction support, Assystem provided end-to-end services, ensuring robust project execution and operational efficiency that led to the following key outcomes:

• Improved handling capacity with mechanized solutions.
• Enhanced berth productivity, processing 27,120 metric tons annually.
• Optimized labor and operational costs, making Paradip Port globally competitive.
• In 2023-24, Paradip Port handled 145.38 million metric tons of cargo, surpassing previous records and making it the country’s top cargo handling port

This project demonstrates how advanced infrastructure can align with sustainable practices. By improving the port’s efficiency, reducing delays, and optimizing resource use, the development contributes to the broader goal of fostering eco-conscious growth in India’s maritime sector.

Rajesh Panicker, Head of Ports Business Unit said, “This project is a testament to Assystem’s engineering excellence and commitment to fostering sustainable growth in India’s maritime sector. Paradip Port now stands as a model for modern port infrastructure, driving progress and sustainability.”