
SME Focus Episode 244: Charlotte Horobin – Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce
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Shyam Metalics and Energy Ltd., one of India’s leading metal manufacturers, is expanding its footprint into the wagon manufacturing sector with the launch of a new, cutting-edge greenfield plant in Kharagpur, West Bengal. The new facility, developed through Shyam Metalics’ step-down subsidiary, Ramsarup Industries Ltd., is a strategic move to strengthen India’s infrastructure and contribute to the government’s vision of a self-reliant nation under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
This new venture is poised to support India’s growing demand for robust, efficient transportation solutions. The Kharagpur plant is designed with scalability and sustainability at its core. Set to begin operations by March 2026, the plant will be established in two distinct phases, with Phase I aiming for a production capacity of 2,400 wagons per year (approximately 8 wagons per day). In Phase II, the capacity will be doubled to 4,800 wagons annually, enabling the facility to meet the expanding needs of India’s railway infrastructure.
The Kharagpur plant is designed with forward-thinking features that align with modern manufacturing trends. A key aspect of the facility’s design is its commitment to sustainability, including the installation of rooftop solar panels to generate clean energy for the plant. This eco-friendly approach will help reduce the environmental impact of the facility’s operations. In addition, the plant will feature on-site residential quarters and recreational amenities, ensuring that employees benefit from a well-rounded and supportive work environment.
The plant will adopt a “Uni-Flow” manufacturing layout, a world-class design that maximizes production efficiency. This layout is specifically aimed at streamlining production processes, enhancing throughput, and ensuring minimal downtime. Moreover, the use of domestically manufactured equipment for the facility further strengthens the vision of building India’s self-reliance in industrial manufacturing and technological capabilities.
Sheetij Agarwal, Director of Shyam Metalics and Energy Ltd, spoke about the strategic importance of the facility, saying, “With our entry into the wagon manufacturing sector, we are reinforcing Shyam Metalics’ commitment to advancing India’s industrial self-reliance through state-of-the-art, high-impact infrastructure. This facility exemplifies our dedication to sustainable practices, innovation, and supporting nation-building initiatives. From utilizing rooftop solar energy to deploying Made-in-India technology, we have designed every element to ensure operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact while promoting employee welfare.”
The Kharagpur manufacturing unit’s location offers exceptional logistical advantages. It is strategically situated near two major national highways and in close proximity to a prominent port, ensuring smooth access to essential transportation networks. The facility is also supported by Shyam Metalics’ integrated infrastructure, which includes an operational railway siding, captive power facilities, and direct access to structural and stainless steel from its flagship steel plant. This vertical integration will enable seamless production processes, ensuring cost efficiency and reliability.
This new plant marks a significant diversification of Shyam Metalics’ business portfolio, extending its reach beyond steel into the rapidly growing wagon manufacturing sector. The facility will focus on producing a wide range of rolling stock, including flat wagons, open wagons, box wagons, hopper-covered wagons, tank wagons, and specialized variants, ensuring a robust and diversified product offering for the Indian market.
The new Kharagpur plant is part of Shyam Metalics’ long-term five-year capex roadmap, reflecting the company’s strategic focus on investing in India’s industrial development. By entering the wagon manufacturing sector, the company aligns itself with the nation’s infrastructure growth objectives, particularly in the railway sector. As the demand for robust and reliable wagons increases, Shyam Metalics is positioning itself as a key player in providing essential components to the transportation sector.
This expansion also plays a critical role in supporting the company’s broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. By adopting sustainable manufacturing practices and leveraging clean energy sources, Shyam Metalics aims to reduce material waste and energy consumption, contributing to the company’s overall commitment to a greener future.
Shyam Metalics’ venture into wagon manufacturing is a strategic milestone in the company’s journey to become a comprehensive provider of steel and mobility solutions in India. With its commitment to quality, sustainability, and self-reliance, the company is poised to enhance India’s industrial capacity and contribute significantly to the nation’s infrastructure development. This move also positions Shyam Metalics as a critical player in India’s economic growth, reinforcing its role in building a more sustainable and resilient future for the country.
Shyam Metalics and Energy Ltd. is a leading integrated metal-producing company based in India. The company specializes in steel manufacturing and operates in key sectors, including ferro alloys, aluminum, and stainless steel. With over 25 years of market leadership in the domestic market, Shyam Metalics is one of India’s largest producers of ferro alloys, with an extensive portfolio of products ranging from long steel products to specialized components. The company’s focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability has driven its success and market leadership, making it one of India’s most trusted names in the metal industry.
Shyam Metalics’ entry into wagon manufacturing marks a critical step in its expansion strategy, enhancing its role in India’s industrial growth while contributing to the country’s infrastructure development. Through strategic investments and cutting-edge sustainable practices, Shyam Metalics is poised to play a significant role in shaping India’s future as a global leader in manufacturing and infrastructure solutions.
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