COMPACT LOADER

The backhoe loader is getting facelifts in different ways. The machine is now trendier

- Molly R

Ubiquitous across construction and infrastructure project sites, the backhoe loader is perhaps one construction equipment that is in demand throughout all seasons. With the economy slowly coming back to life, backhoe loader manufacturers are optimistic of demand firming from the third quarter onwards, led by sustained thrust on infrastructure development. A sizeable part of the fresh offtake will be through materialization of pent up demand with construction activities resuming in infra projects such as rural housing, and roads. The backhoes with new attachments are also finding application in irrigation and watershed developments; and a good monsoon could herald new investments by farmers in backhoes for use in their farmlands.

Two years ago the government announced emission norms for commercial vehicles and construction equipment and tractors. Dates were revised due to the pandemic and new emission norms for construction equipment vehicles and tractors came into force from April 2021 and October 2021, respectively. The R&D and subsequent actions meant that ultimately the prices of the equipment would go up.

The BS norms were instituted by the government to regulate emission of air pollutants from motor vehicles and protect the environment. BS-IV engine in terms of efficiency will offer better performance and mileage. It will also reduce PM emissions, which is a main constituent for outdoor air pollution, by over 80% in diesel engine vehicles.