COMMERCE PROJECT 1

AKSH NARANG
11-B
STRAWBERRY FIELDS HIGH SCHOOL
2024-25
ASSIGNMENT QUESTION:-

Project / Assignment 1: -
Select any two infrastructure projects of public sector
undertakings that have been commissioned between
2000-2023.
Analyze each project in terms of:

 Description and key features

 Objective/ Profitability
 Adherence to the time schedule for project completion
 Impact on the economy
 Challenges faced while completing the project
 Social utility
 Conclusion
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:-

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK MS. ANGIRA SHARMA FOR

PROVIDING ME AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A PROJECT ON
THE TOPIC WHICH WILL ENHANCE MY KNOWLEDGE AND
HELP ME IN THE FUTURE.
INDEX:-

1. Description & Key features

2. Objective/profitability
3. Adherence to the time schedule for project completion
4. Impact on the economy
5. Challenges faced
6. Social utility
7. Conclusion
 DESCRIPTION & KEY FEATURES:-

1.Konkan Railway: Completed in 1998, but significant

expansions and modernizations have continued into the
2000s.

ON 20 March 1993 The Konkan Railway (abbreviated KR) is

one of the 19 railway zones in India with its headquarters at
CBD Belapur in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The first
passenger train ran on Konkan railway tracks on 20 March
1993, between Udupi and Mangalore

THE KEY FEATURES ARE:-

• The impact evaluation of the Konkan Railway, a

controversial infrastructure project in the ecologically
sensitive Western Ghats is an attempt towards bridging the
gap in evidence on the impact of large infrastructure
projects.
• While, migration studies have increasingly identified the
role of better transport and communication facilities in
enabling workers to respond better to income opportunities
generated by migration, this study is among the few that
quantifies the changes in population and workforce
composition brought about by migration and daily commute
to work in response to improved transport infrastructure.
• By doing so it encourages transport and development
planners in both migrant sending and receiving regions to
take into consideration how transport infrastructure helps in
diversification of workplace and economic activities
 • Contrary to the initial expectations that the Konkan
Railway project will usher in an era of industrial development
and transform the migration and remittance dependant
character of the regional economy, our findings suggest that
the Konkan Railway has not contributed directly to such an
outcome. Transport infrastructure may, therefore, may not
be sufficient by themselves in changing the geography of
industrial location.
• Large scale project, which may cause disturbances in the
ecosystem of a region in the short run can well be
environmentally stable and indeed prove environmentally
sustainable in the long run if adequate measures for
environmental management are implemented 2. Overview
Large infrastructure projects usually defined as large,
complex projects.
2.Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL): Various power
plant projects across India, including thermal, hydro, and
renewable energy projects.

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is an Indian central

public sector undertaking and the largest government-
owned power generation equipment manufacturer. It is
owned by the Government of India, with administrative
control by the Ministry of Heavy Industries. Established in
1956 with the help of Soviet technology, BHEL is based
in New Delhi.

KEY FEATURES ARE:-

1.Power Sector (~76% of revenues)

The company has capabilities to manufacture the entire
range of power plant equipment including thermal, gas,
hydro and nuclear power projects.
2.Execution Record - It has executed ~1,000
coal, hydro, gas and nuclear based utility sets since its
inception in 1964. It accounts for ~53% of India's total
capacity of utility power projects.
3.As per FY22, the total capacity of company's electricity
utility installed base is ~164 GW out of which ~132 GW is
from coal based power projects.
4.Industry Sector (~24% of revenues)
Under this segment, the company offers various products/
solutions for various sectors viz. transportation,
renewables, defence & aerospace, energy storage solutions
& other business areas, captive power & process plants,
transmission and industrial products.[5]
5.Product Profile - The company's product profile for both
its sectors can be found here.
6.Order Book Position
As per FY22, the company has an outstanding order book of
~102,500 crores. It received ~23,690 crores of orders in FY22
out of which 76% is from Power Sector.
7.For Power Sector, out of the total order from 2017-2022
which was 16,320MW, BHEL accounted for ~75%,
12,180MW and commands 100% market share in Nuclear
Power
8.International Presence
The company has its footprint in 88 countries across 6
continents in the world.[9] In FY22, exports accounted for
~8% revenues compared to 11% in FY21.
9.Manufacturing Capabilities
As per FY22, the company operates 16, manufacturing units
and 2 repair units across the nation.
10.R&D Capabilities
The company has 14 R&D centers established across India.
It also has 5 specialized research institutes for pollution
control, welding, ceramic technology, electric
transportation and amorphous silicon solar cell across
various cities. It has consistently spent ~2.5% of total sales
towards R&D over years.
11.Intense Competition
The company operates in an increasingly competitive
market as several domestic companies have entered into
the boiler-turbine-generator space through JVs with
international players.
OBJECTIVES/PROFITABILITY:-

The Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) is a notable example

of a successful public sector undertaking (PSU) in India, primarily
focusing on railway infrastructure development. Here are the
objectives and aspects related to profitability for Konkan Railways:
Objectives of Konkan Railways:
1.Connectivity and Accessibility: One of the primary objectives of
Konkan Railways is to improve connectivity along the western coastal
region of India, particularly connecting Maharashtra, Goa, and
Karnataka. This railway line has significantly enhanced transportation
accessibility for passengers and freight in these states.
2.Infrastructure Development: Konkan Railways aimed to develop
modern railway infrastructure, including laying new tracks,
constructing bridges, tunnels, and stations. This was crucial in
overcoming the geographical challenges of the Western Ghats.
3.Enhancing Economic Growth: By facilitating faster and more
efficient transportation of goods and people, Konkan Railways
contributes to the economic growth of the region. It supports
industries such as tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing by
providing reliable transportation options.
Environmental Sustainability: The construction of Konkan Railways
took into consideration environmental sustainability by minimizing
the impact on ecologically sensitive areas like the Western Ghats. It
adopted various measures for environmental conservation and
management.
4.Safety and Efficiency: Ensuring safe and efficient operations is a
key objective. Konkan Railways focuses on maintaining high safety
standards and improving operational efficiency to provide reliable
services to passengers and cargo transporters.

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), one of India's largest

engineering and manufacturing enterprises, operates primarily in the
power sector, manufacturing a wide range of products and providing
related services. The objectives of BHEL can be broadly categorized
as follows:
1.Power Generation: BHEL aims to support the power generation
sector by manufacturing and supplying equipment for thermal,
hydro, nuclear, and renewable energy power plants. This includes
turbines, generators, boilers, and associated systems.
2.Energy Efficiency: BHEL focuses on developing and implementing
technologies that enhance the efficiency and performance of power
generation equipment. This includes improving the efficiency of
thermal power plants and promoting renewable energy solutions.
3.Infrastructure Development: BHEL plays a crucial role in
infrastructure development by providing equipment and systems for
various industrial sectors beyond power generation. This includes
industries like transportation, defense, oil & gas, and more.
4.Research and Development: Innovation and technology
development are key objectives for BHEL. The company invests
significantly in research and development to improve existing
products, develop new technologies, and stay competitive in the
global market.
5.Quality and Reliability: BHEL emphasizes quality and reliability in
its products and services. Meeting international standards and
customer expectations is a priority to maintain its reputation as a
trusted provider of engineering solutions.
6.Export Promotion: BHEL actively participates in export markets,
aiming to promote its products and services globally. Export earnings
contribute to the company's revenue and help in showcasing India's
engineering capabilities on the international stage.
7.Environmental Responsibility: BHEL strives to develop
environmentally sustainable technologies and practices. This
includes reducing emissions from power plants, promoting cleaner
technologies, and adhering to environmental regulations.
8.Human Resource Development: BHEL places importance on
nurturing and developing its workforce. Training programs, skill
development initiatives, and creating a conducive work environment
are key objectives to ensure employee satisfaction and productivity.
9.Customer Satisfaction: Providing excellent customer service and
meeting customer requirements are central to BHEL's objectives. The
company aims to build long-term relationships with its clients by
delivering reliable products and responsive support services.
Adherence to the time schedule for
project completion:-

KONKAN RAILWAYS

 Detailed Planning and Scheduling: Konkan Railways begins each

project with meticulous planning and scheduling. This involves
breaking down the project into phases and tasks, estimating
timelines for each, and setting realistic milestones.
 Project Management Techniques: Utilizing modern project
management techniques such as Critical Path Method (CPM) or
Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) helps in identifying
critical tasks and dependencies. This allows Konkan Railways to
prioritize activities that are crucial for meeting deadlines.
 Regular Monitoring and Progress Tracking: Throughout the
project lifecycle, Konkan Railways monitors progress closely. Regular
site inspections, progress reports, and meetings with contractors and
stakeholders ensure that the project stays on track according to the
planned schedule.
 Effective Resource Management: Allocating resources efficiently,
including manpower, materials, and equipment, is vital for adhering
to project timelines. Konkan Railways ensures that resources are
available as per the project requirements to avoid delays.

 Adherence to Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Konkan

Railways ensures compliance with all legal and regulatory
requirements related to construction, environment, and safety.
Proactively addressing regulatory issues helps in preventing delays
due to legal challenges.
 Incentives and Penalties: In some cases, contracts with
contractors and vendors include clauses for incentives for early
completion and penalties for delays. This provides additional
motivation for adherence to the project schedule.
 Continuous Improvement: Konkan Railways continuously reviews
its project management practices and learns from past experiences
to improve efficiency and effectiveness in meeting project timelines.

BHEL

 Comprehensive Project Planning: BHEL begins each project with

meticulous planning, outlining project scope, objectives, and
timelines. Detailed project schedules are developed, taking into
account various phases such as design, engineering, procurement,
manufacturing, testing, and commissioning.
 Advanced Engineering and Design: Before initiating
manufacturing, BHEL focuses on thorough engineering and design
phases. This includes detailed engineering calculations, simulations,
and prototype testing to validate designs and minimize potential
changes during manufacturing.
 Efficient Manufacturing Processes: BHEL utilizes modern
manufacturing facilities equipped with advanced technologies and
processes. Lean manufacturing principles are employed to optimize
production workflows, minimize waste, and enhance productivity.
 Supply Chain Management: Effective management of the supply
chain is crucial to ensure timely availability of raw materials,
components, and equipment. BHEL maintains robust relationships
with suppliers, implements supply chain visibility tools, and employs
proactive risk management strategies to mitigate procurement
delays.
 Risk Management: Proactive risk management is integrated into
BHEL’s project execution strategy. Comprehensive risk assessments
are conducted to identify potential risks and their impacts on project
timelines. Mitigation plans are developed and implemented to
minimize disruptions and maintain schedule adherence.
 Customer Collaboration: Continuous communication and
collaboration with customers are prioritized by BHEL. Understanding
customer requirements and expectations helps in aligning project
execution strategies to deliver on time and meet customer
satisfaction.
 Continuous Improvement: BHEL emphasizes a culture of
continuous improvement. Lessons learned from completed projects
are systematically analyzed and incorporated into process
improvements and best practices. This ensures ongoing
enhancement of efficiency and effectiveness in project execution
IMPACT ON THE ECONOMY:-

KONKAN RAILWAYS

 Enhanced Connectivity: Konkan Railways has improved

connectivity between Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka, particularly
in the coastal areas. This has facilitated easier movement of goods
and people, boosting economic activities in these regions. Improved
connectivity has also enhanced accessibility to tourist destinations
along the Konkan coast, contributing to the tourism sector.
 Stimulated Regional Development: The construction and
operation of Konkan Railways have stimulated regional development
by attracting investments in infrastructure, industries, and services.
Improved transport links have made remote areas more accessible,
encouraging industrial and commercial activities. This, in turn, has
created employment opportunities and improved living standards for
local communities.
 Support to Agriculture: Farmers along the Konkan Railways route
benefit from improved access to markets for their produce. The
railway line enables faster and more reliable transportation of
agricultural goods, reducing wastage and ensuring fresher produce
reaches consumers. This has contributed to the growth of
agriculture-related industries and agro-processing activities in the
region.
 Boost to Tourism: Konkan Railways has enhanced tourism along
the picturesque Konkan coast. Tourists now have easier access to
pristine beaches, historical sites, and cultural attractions. The railway
has also promoted eco-tourism initiatives, encouraging sustainable
tourism practices that benefit local communities.
 Environmental Impact: Konkan Railways has implemented
environmental conservation measures during construction and
operation to minimize its ecological footprint. This includes initiatives
such as wildlife conservation, afforestation, and pollution control
measures. By promoting sustainable development practices, Konkan
Railways contributes to environmental stewardship in the region.

BHEL

 Power Sector Development: BHEL is a major contributor to India's

power sector infrastructure. The company manufactures and
supplies a wide range of equipment for thermal power plants,
hydroelectric plants, nuclear power plants, and renewable energy
projects. This includes turbines, generators, boilers, and control
systems, which are essential for increasing the country's power
generation capacity.
 Energy Security: BHEL's products and services support India's
energy security by enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and
performance of power generation facilities. This helps in meeting the
growing demand for electricity, supporting industrial growth, and
improving access to electricity in rural areas.
 Employment Generation: BHEL is one of the largest employers in
the engineering and manufacturing sector in India. The company
provides direct employment to a substantial workforce across its
manufacturing facilities, engineering divisions, and service sectors.
Additionally, BHEL's operations create indirect employment
opportunities through its extensive supply chain and subcontractors.
 Technological Advancement: BHEL has played a crucial role in
advancing indigenous technology and manufacturing capabilities in
the power sector. The company invests significantly in research and
development (R&D) to innovate and develop new technologies. This
has led to the localization of critical components and reduced
dependence on imports, thereby enhancing India's technological
self-reliance.
 Exports and Foreign Exchange: BHEL actively participates in
international markets through exports of its products and services.
The company's exports contribute to earning foreign exchange for
the country, thereby bolstering India's balance of payments. BHEL's
reputation as a reliable supplier of power equipment strengthens
India's position in the global market for engineering goods.
 Infrastructure Development: Beyond power generation, BHEL's
capabilities support infrastructure development in sectors such as
transportation, defense, oil & gas, and industrial projects. The
company's products and services are integral to the construction and
maintenance of critical infrastructure, stimulating economic growth
and job creation.
 Support to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): BHEL's supply
chain includes numerous SMEs that benefit from business
opportunities generated by BHEL's projects. The company
collaborates with these enterprises, providing them with contracts
and fostering growth within the broader industrial ecosystem.
 Skill Development: BHEL invests in skill development initiatives to
enhance the capabilities of its workforce and the broader industry.
Training programs, apprenticeships, and collaborations with
technical institutions contribute to building a skilled workforce
equipped to meet the demands of the engineering and
manufacturing sectors.
 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): BHEL undertakes CSR
initiatives focused on education, healthcare, environmental
sustainability, and community development. These initiatives
positively impact communities where BHEL operates, promoting
inclusive growth and social well-being.
 Indirect Economic Impact: BHEL's operations have a multiplier
effect on the economy through its interactions with suppliers, service
providers, and local businesses. The economic activities generated by
BHEL's presence contribute to local and regional development,
supporting ancillary industries and services

CHALLENGES FACED:-
KONKAN RAILWAYS
 Topographical Challenges: The Western Ghats region, through
which Konkan Railways passes, is characterized by rugged terrain,
steep slopes, and dense forests. Constructing railway lines, bridges,
and tunnels in such challenging topography required extensive
engineering expertise and specialized construction techniques.
 Environmental Concerns: The Western Ghats are ecologically
sensitive areas with rich biodiversity. Konkan Railways had to
navigate stringent environmental regulations and ensure minimal
disruption to the fragile ecosystem. Measures such as wildlife
corridors, afforestation programs, and pollution control were
implemented to mitigate environmental impacts.
 Land Acquisition Issues: Acquiring land for the railway project was
a significant challenge due to land ownership complexities,
resistance from local communities, and legal hurdles. Negotiating
land acquisition and resettlement of affected populations required
careful planning and adherence to legal processes.
 Weather and Climate Conditions: The Konkan region experiences
heavy monsoon rains, which posed challenges during construction.
Landslides, flooding, and soil erosion were common issues that could
delay construction progress and necessitate additional engineering
solutions to ensure stability and safety of the railway infrastructure.
 Safety and Security Concerns: Ensuring the safety of workers and
protecting construction sites from theft and vandalism were constant
concerns. The remote and isolated nature of some construction sites
posed security challenges that required proactive measures and
coordination with local authorities.
 Financial and Funding Constraints: Securing adequate funding and
managing project finances posed challenges, especially considering
the scale and scope of the Konkan Railways project. Budget overruns
and delays could impact project timelines and require adjustments in
funding allocation.

BHEL
 Technological Complexity: Many projects undertaken by BHEL
involve advanced and complex technologies, especially in the power
generation sector. Developing and integrating cutting-edge
technologies into equipment like turbines, generators, and control
systems requires significant R&D investment and expertise.
 Project Scale and Scope: BHEL often handles projects of immense
scale and scope, such as constructing entire power plants or
supplying equipment for mega infrastructure projects. Managing
such large-scale operations involves coordination across multiple
disciplines, extensive planning, and meticulous execution.
 Timely Delivery: Adhering to project schedules and meeting
deadlines is critical for BHEL, particularly in sectors where time
delays can have cascading effects on project costs and outcomes.
Delays can arise due to factors such as supply chain disruptions,
technical challenges, and regulatory approvals.
 Cost Management: Controlling project costs while maintaining
quality standards is a continuous challenge for BHEL. Factors such as
inflation, currency fluctuations, and unexpected expenses can impact
project budgets and profitability.
 Global Competition: BHEL operates in a competitive global
market, facing competition from international engineering firms and
manufacturers. Differentiating itself through technological
innovation, cost-effectiveness, and superior project execution is
essential for securing contracts and maintaining market leadership.
SOCIAL UTILITY:-

KONKAN RAILWAYS
 Connectivity: Konkan Railways connects the states of
Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka along the western coast of India. It
provides crucial connectivity to remote and rural areas, facilitating
economic development and tourism.
 Transportation: It plays a vital role in transporting people and
goods efficiently across the Konkan region. This accessibility has
reduced travel time and costs for commuters and businesses alike.
 Tourism: The scenic route of Konkan Railways has boosted tourism
in the region. Travelers enjoy picturesque views of the Arabian Sea,
mountains, and lush landscapes, making it a popular choice for both
domestic and international tourists.
 Economic Development: By linking various towns and cities,
Konkan Railways has spurred economic growth along its route. It has
facilitated trade, commerce, and industrial development by
providing reliable and faster transportation options.

BHEL
 Power Generation: BHEL manufactures a wide range of power
generation equipment, including turbines, generators, boilers, and
control systems. Its products are crucial for generating electricity,
meeting the energy demands of industries, homes, and
infrastructure projects across India.
 Electrification: BHEL plays a pivotal role in electrifying rural and
urban areas by supplying equipment for power plants, transmission
lines, and distribution networks. This effort enhances access to
electricity, improving living standards and supporting economic
activities.
 Employment Generation: BHEL is a major employer, providing
skilled employment opportunities to thousands of engineers,
technicians, and support staff across its manufacturing units and
projects. This contributes to economic development and social
stability by creating livelihoods.
 Technology Development: BHEL invests in research and
development (R&D) to innovate and improve its products and
processes continuously. This contributes to technological
advancements in the energy sector and enhances India's self-reliance
in manufacturing critical power equipment.
CONCLUSION:-
In conclusion, Konkan Railways stands as a transformative
infrastructure project that has significantly enhanced connectivity,
economic development, tourism, and disaster resilience along the
western coast of India. By bridging remote regions and fostering
social integration, it has not only reduced travel time and costs but
also facilitated trade and commerce. The scenic route has attracted
tourists, boosting local economies and highlighting India's natural
beauty. Moreover, its engineering feats and sustainable practices
underscore its commitment to both development and environmental
conservation. Konkan Railways continues to exemplify the profound
social utility of well-executed infrastructure projects in fostering
inclusive growth and connectivity across diverse communities.

In conclusion, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) plays a crucial

role in India's industrial and social fabric through its contributions to
power generation, electrification, employment generation,
technology development, environmental sustainability, and
infrastructure development. As a cornerstone of the nation's
engineering sector, BHEL's commitment to innovation and quality
has not only bolstered India's energy security but also facilitated
economic growth and improved living standards across the country.
By pioneering advancements in power equipment and promoting
sustainable practices, BHEL continues to shape India's industrial
landscape while striving for a greener and more inclusive future.