As India moves ahead with large-scale infrastructure projects, experts suggest that the strength of its growing rail and road networks depends heavily on specialised components that help structures stay strong in tough conditions. Industry reports noted that India’s railway sector is set to become a major part of global rail activity, while bridge construction is also picking up pace.
According to estimates by the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), India could account for nearly 40% of global rail activity by 2050. The country’s rail network has already expanded to about 69,439 route kilometres as of early 2025, with most of it now electrified. At the same time, the bridge infrastructure market is expected to grow steadily, rising from around $42.16 billion to $68.26 billion between FY2025 and FY2032.
Development of highways and rail corridors is also speeding up, with thousands of kilometres of roads being built every year. Projects like dedicated freight corridors and metro rail expansions highlight the scale of growth. However, experts say that the long-term strength of these projects depends on key components that often go unnoticed, such as bridge bearings and railway parts that reduce vibration and can handle earthquakes, extreme temperatures, heavy loads, and environmental damage.
Companies that make non-tyre rubber products are playing an important role in supplying these components. For example, Ameenji Rubber Limited manufactures different types of bridge bearings that help manage load and movement. These are made using materials like rubber, PTFE, and steel, and are designed to work in India’s diverse weather and terrain. The company also produces railway-related items such as rubber sole plates, fire-resistant vestibules, and rubberised level crossings.
Mufaddal Deesawala Ameenji, Chairman and Managing Director of Ameenji Rubber Limited, said that “infrastructure is not just about what people can see, but also about the strength of the engineering behind it”. He stressed the need for innovation and strict quality standards to ensure long-lasting performance.
These products must meet strict standards set by organisations like the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Indian Roads Congress (IRC), and the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO). Many suppliers also follow ISO and NABL testing standards. Proper inspection and maintenance are important, as good-quality bearings can last 25 years or more, reducing repair costs and disruptions over time.
The overall bearings market in India is also expected to grow, with projections showing an increase of about USD 853.9 million between 2024 and 2029, driven by rising demand from infrastructure and industrial sectors.
Ameenji claims to make bridge bearings using materials like high-quality rubber, PTFE and special steel parts. These materials are chosen because they can resist wear, rust and damage from the environment over years.
With continued high government spending, including record railway budgets in recent years, experts believe that focusing on quality materials and reliable components will be key to making India’s infrastructure projects successful in the long run. As construction speeds up, the focus is now shifting towards building durable structures that require less maintenance over time.
