From material processing to road execution, technology is redefining how infrastructure is delivered in India. In an interaction with Construction Business Today, Ramesh Palagiri, Managing Director & CEO, Wirtgen India, highlighted how the company is leveraging advanced crushing and screening solutions, digital integration, and a strong manufacturing base in Pune to support both domestic demand and global markets—positioning itself as a key technology partner in India’s infrastructure journey towards 2030.
India is targeting a US$ 7–8 trillion economy by 2030, driven by large-scale infrastructure development. From a construction equipment perspective, do you believe the industry is adequately prepared to support this scale of demand?
India’s construction equipment industry has made significant progress over the past decade and is largely on track to support this scale of growth. Increased localization, expansion of manufacturing capacities, and a stronger focus on technology adoption have enhanced the industry’s readiness.
However, to fully meet the demands of a US$ 7–8 trillion economy, continued efforts are required in areas such as skill development, faster project execution, and access to financing for contractors. The shift towards mechanization and adoption of advanced equipment will be critical in bridging productivity gaps.
Overall, the foundation is strong, and with sustained policy support and industry collaboration, the sector is well-positioned to scale up and meet future infrastructure demands.
How is your Kleemann range of crushing and screening equipment positioned to address the growing demand from mining, quarrying, and infrastructure projects?
The Kleemann range is strategically positioned to cater to the evolving requirements of mining, quarrying, and infrastructure sectors through a combination of performance, mobility, and efficiency. Our solutions are designed to deliver high throughput, consistent output quality, and flexibility across diverse applications.
With a strong focus on mobility, Kleemann equipment enables on site processing, reducing material transportation costs and improving project efficiency. Advanced automation features and user-friendly controls further enhance operational ease and productivity.
In addition, our equipment is engineered for durability and optimized fuel consumption, making it suitable for the demanding conditions of Indian projects. This ensures that customers achieve both operational efficiency and long-term cost benefits.
Wirtgen has been focusing on digital solutions. How is digital integration improving planning, execution, and quality control on road projects?
Digital integration is playing a transformative role in modern road construction by enabling greater precision, transparency, and efficiency across project lifecycles. At Wirtgen, our digital solutions allow for better planning through accurate data inputs, simulation tools, and optimized resource allocation.
During execution, technologies such as machine automation, real time monitoring, and telematics help ensure consistent performance and reduce human error. Operators can make informed decisions based on live data, leading to improved productivity and reduced material wastage.
From a quality control standpoint, digital systems enable continuous tracking of parameters such as temperature, compaction levels, and layer thickness. This ensures adherence to project specifications, minimizes rework, and enhances overall project quality. The Wirtgen Group offers telematics with its equipment and through John Deere operations centre – the onsite projects can be monitored real time.
With your Pune facility producing compactors, pavers, and screening equipment, how is India evolving as a manufacturing and export hub?
India is steadily emerging as a key manufacturing and export hub for construction equipment, supported by its cost competitiveness, skilled workforce, and improving infrastructure ecosystem. Our Pune facility plays a crucial role in this transformation by serving both domestic and international markets.
The focus on localization, adherence to global quality standards, and integration of advanced manufacturing practices have enabled us to deliver products that meet international benchmarks.
Today the Kleemann Screens, Scalpers and Stackers, Hamm Range of Compactors and Rollers and Vogele pavers made at the Wirtgen Group Pune facility have the same quality standards as our German factories and are exported to more than 80 countries worldwide.
By 2030, how do you envision Wirtgen Group positioning itself within India’s construction and infrastructure ecosystem?
By 2030, we envision Wirtgen Group strengthening its position as a technology leader and a trusted partner in India’s infrastructure growth journey. Our focus will remain on delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-performance solutions that align with the country’s evolving infrastructure needs.
