Tata Steel’s Q3, FY06 production of hot metal at 1.25 mt, crude steel at 1.13 mt, and saleable steel at 1.14 mt, registered an increase of 13 %, 7 %, and 9 %, respectively, as compared to the figures of the corresponding period of last year. The gains are significant since this quarter had the maximum number of shutdowns for planned maintenance and up gradation to 5 mt capacity.

The mid term repair of the steel plants third largest blast furnace was completed in a record time of 44 days. One of its two billet casters, has been upgraded from 0.6 mtpa to 1 mtpa capacity, and can now cast both 130 mm & 150 mm sections, at enhanced speed. It is expected to ramp up to its rated capacity by end of January’ 06. The commissioning trials of the 0.6 mtpa New Bar Mill is progressing well. This mill will produce only rebars now, to cope with the increased demand of the construction and infrastructure sector.

The third quarter sales at 1.12 mt have recorded an increase of 11 %, as compared to that of the corresponding period of last year. Tata Steel has yet again established itself as a pioneer with the opening of “ steeljunction” in Kolkata on 12th December’ 05, the first organized steel retail store in the country. The initial consumer response to this has been euphoric with highest sale on a single day. Tata Steel also launched a new brand “Tata Structura” keeping in view the company’s long-term commitment towards providing solutions to the construction and the infrastructural needs of the country, as also with a view towards equipping the architect , engineering and the consultant fraternity with a new age and a contemporary construction product.