#construction equipment market size

[mordormr]

Building a Giant: The Indian Construction Equipment Market Gears Up

India's infrastructure development is on a fast track, and the construction equipment market is the engine powering this growth. Mordor Intelligence's latest report delves into this dynamic market, analyzing its current status, future potential, and key trends shaping its trajectory.

A Market on the Rise: Building a Brighter Future

The Indian construction equipment market is estimated to reach a value of USD 10.90 billion by 2029, driven by a projected CAGR of 8.30% during the forecast period (2024-2029). This growth surge is fueled by several key factors:

Infrastructure Boom: The Indian government's ambitious infrastructure development plans, encompassing roads, railways, ports, and urban development projects, are creating a significant demand for construction equipment.

Rising Urbanization: Rapid urbanization across India is driving the need for residential and commercial construction, further pushing the demand for construction machinery.

Increasing Investment: Growing investments in the construction sector, both from the public and private sectors, are providing the necessary capital for equipment procurement.

Focus on Efficiency and Productivity: Construction companies are increasingly seeking efficient and high-performing equipment to optimize project timelines and costs.

Beyond the Basics: A Diverse Market

The Indian construction equipment market caters to a wide range of machinery:

Earthmoving Equipment: Excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and graders form the backbone of construction projects, responsible for excavation, material handling, and site preparation.

Concrete Equipment: Concrete mixers, batching plants, and pumps play a vital role in mixing, transporting, and placing concrete for various structures.

Lifting Equipment: Cranes of various capacities, along with forklifts and aerial work platforms, are essential for lifting and transporting heavy materials at construction sites.

Road Construction Equipment: Asphalt pavers, rollers, and milling machines are crucial for constructing and maintaining roads and highways.

A Competitive Landscape: A Mix of Local and Global Players

The Indian construction equipment market is a diverse landscape with both established global players and prominent domestic manufacturers:

International Giants: Leading international companies like Caterpillar, Komatsu, and JCB hold a significant market share, known for their advanced technology and reliable equipment.

Domestic Manufacturers: Indian manufacturers like Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Ashok Leyland, and Escorts are making their mark on the market, offering competitive pricing and catering to specific user needs.

A Look Ahead: Embracing Innovation and Sustainability

The future of the Indian construction equipment market promises exciting advancements:

Focus on Rental and Leasing: The rental and leasing model for construction equipment is expected to gain traction, offering greater flexibility and affordability for contractors.

Adoption of Green Technologies: As environmental concerns rise, the demand for fuel-efficient and emission-reduction technologies in construction equipment will increase.

Rise of Digitalization: The integration of digital technologies like automation and telematics into construction equipment will enhance efficiency and improve fleet management.

[automotivetransportationresearch]

Global Construction Equipment Industry Valued at $194.7 Billion by 2030

The construction equipment market is projected to grow from USD 149.7 billion in 2023 to USD 194.7 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 3.8%. The construction equipment rental business is picking up steam and seems to be having a positive impact on the global construction equipment market which will offer promising growth opportunities for the futuristic growth of the market. Based on Region, it is…

[machineryandparts]

Sustainability in the Machinery and Parts Market

The Machinery and Parts Market is undergoing significant changes in response to sustainability considerations and environmental concerns. This executive summary provides an overview of the current trends and statistics in sustainable manufacturing and product design, highlighting the importance of environmental considerations in the industry.

Sustainable Manufacturing and Product Design

Sustainable manufacturing and product design are becoming increasingly important in the machinery and parts market. According to a study (2003), sustainable product development and manufacturing involve considering environmental requirements throughout the product and manufacturing process. This includes minimizing energy consumption, reducing waste generation, and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials and processes. The study (2010) highlights the modeling and optimization challenges in sustainable manufacturing at the product, process, and system levels. The authors propose a more robust structure of interlinked pillars of sustainability to offer appropriate options to stakeholders, including over-consumption, resource utilization, pollution, and overpopulation.

Environmental Considerations in Manufacturing

Environmental considerations are becoming a crucial aspect of manufacturing in the machinery and parts market. Companies are recognizing the need to commit to strong environmental, health, and safety records in the most cost-effective manner. This includes investing in sustainable technologies, operations, and supply chains, as well as adhering to environmental manufacturing standards and regulations.

According to a study by McKinsey, the 2020s may mark the beginning of a new era in sustainable manufacturing, with companies increasingly focusing on reducing energy consumption, waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. This trend is driven by consumer demand for sustainable products and processes, as well as the need to address environmental and social issues in the industry.

Eco-Friendly Products and Services

The Machinery and Parts Market is also seeing a growing demand for eco-friendly products and services. Companies are increasingly focusing on developing and promoting environment-friendly products and services over the entire product life cycle, from raw material procurement to product disposal. The Kubota Group, for example, conducts environmental assessments of products in the design and development stages and promotes environment-friendliness over the entire product life cycle. The company internally certifies exceptionally environment-friendly products as Eco-Products and is working to expand its lineup of certified products.

Conclusion

sustainability and environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important in the machinery and parts market. Companies are recognizing the need to invest in sustainable technologies, operations, and supply chains, as well as adhering to environmental manufacturing standards and regulations. The demand for eco-friendly products and services is also growing, with companies focusing on developing and promoting environment-friendly products and services over the entire product life cycle. By prioritizing sustainability and environmental considerations, companies in the machinery and parts market can not only meet consumer demand but also contribute to protecting the global environment and solving social issues.

[luckydige45]

According to the latest research by nova one advisor, the global construction equipment market size was exhibited at USD 198.97 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit around USD 411.19 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.4% during the forecast period 2023 to 2032.

[mysticalpersonakingdom]

Construction Equipment Market - Size, Share & Industry Trends

[kadambarimmr123]

Global Construction Equipment Rental Market is expected to reach US$ 152.79 Bn. by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.2% throughout the forecast period.

[marketsndata]

[aimarketresearch]

Construction Equipment Rental Market Size, Share, Trends, Key Drivers, Growth Opportunities and Competitive Outlook

Global Construction Equipment Rental Market' the new research report adds in Data Bridge Market Research's reports database. This Research Report spread across 329 Page, 53 No of Tables, And 244 No of Figures with summarizing Top companies, with tables and figures. The Construction Equipment Rental market research report presents a comprehensive study on production capacity, consumption, import and export for all the major regions across the world. By keeping in mind the end user's point of view, a team of researchers, forecasters, analysts and industry expert's work in-depth to formulate this Construction Equipment Rental market research report.

Construction Equipment Rental Market research report provides data and information about the scenario of  industry which makes it easy to be ahead of the competition in today's speedily altering business environment. Analytical study of this market report aids in formulating growth strategies to augment sales and build brand image in the market. The report underlines historic data along with future forecast and detailed analysis on a global, local and regional level. The winning Construction Equipment Rental Market report also takes into account an analysis of existing major challenges faced by the business and the probable future challenges that the business may have to face while operating in this market.

Global construction equipment rental market was valued at USD 98.22 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 140.75 billion by 2029, registering a CAGR of 4.60% during the forecast period of 2022 to 2029. The market report curated by the Data Bridge Market Research team includes in-depth expert analysis, import/export analysis, pricing analysis, production consumption analysis, and climate chain scenario.

Access Full 350 Pages PDF Report @

Key points covered in the report: -

The pivotal aspect considered in the global Construction Equipment Rental Market report consists of the major competitors functioning in the global market.

The report includes profiles of companies with prominent positions in the global market.

The sales, corporate strategies and technical capabilities of key manufacturers are also mentioned in the report.

The driving factors for the growth of the global Construction Equipment Rental Market are thoroughly explained along with in-depth descriptions of the industry end users.

The report also elucidates important application segments of the global market to readers/users.

This report performs a SWOT analysis of the market. In the final section, the report recalls the sentiments and perspectives of industry-prepared and trained experts.

The experts also evaluate the export/import policies that might propel the growth of the Global Construction Equipment Rental Market.

The Global Construction Equipment Rental Market report provides valuable information for policymakers, investors, stakeholders, service providers, producers, suppliers, and organizations operating in the industry and looking to purchase this research document.

Table of Content:

Part 01: Executive Summary

Part 02: Scope of the Report

Part 03: Global Construction Equipment Rental Market Landscape

Part 04: Global Construction Equipment Rental Market Sizing

Part 05: Global Construction Equipment Rental Market Segmentation by Product

Part 06: Five Forces Analysis

Part 07: Customer Landscape

Part 08: Geographic Landscape

Part 09: Decision Framework

Part 10: Drivers and Challenges

Part 11: Market Trends

Part 12: Vendor Landscape

Part 13: Vendor Analysis

The investment made in the study would provide you access to information such as:

Construction Equipment Rental Market [Global – Broken-down into regions]

Regional level split [North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa]

Country-wise Market Size Split [of important countries with major market share]

Market Share and Revenue/Sales by leading players

Market Trends – Emerging Technologies/products/start-ups, PESTEL Analysis, SWOT Analysis, Porter’s Five Forces, etc.

Market Size

Market Size by application/industry verticals

Market Projections/Forecast

Some of the major players operating in the construction equipment rental market are:

H&E Equipment Services, Inc (U.S.)

Cramo Group (Finland)

Ramirent (Finland)

Maxim Crane Works, L.P. (U.S.)

Kiloutou Group (France)

Sarens NV (Belgium)

Taiyokenki Rental Co., Ltd. (Japan)

Boels Rentals (Netherlands)

Speedy Hire Plc (UK)

United Rentals Inc. (U.S.)

Ashtead Group Plc (UK)

Loxam (Paris)

Herc Holdings Inc. (U.S.)

Aktio Corporation (Japan)

Nishio Rent All Co. Ltd. (Japan)

Kanamoto Co. Ltd.  (Japan)

Nishio Rent All Co. Ltd (Japan)

Mitsubishi Corporation (Japan)

Ahern Rentals (U.S.)

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[prenasper]

GCC Construction Equipment Market Share, Industry Size, Revenue, Growth Drivers, Upcoming Trends, Challenges, Business Opportunities and Forecast 2033: SPER Market Research

The term "construction machinery" describes a wide range of strong tools made for different construction jobs, which greatly boost the output and advancement of building projects. On building sites, these instruments are especially made to do labor-intensive jobs including grading, lifting, excavating, and moving materials. Cranes, loaders, bulldozers, excavators, and concrete mixers are typical examples. Bulldozers are needed for grading and earthmoving, while excavators are multipurpose tools with a bucket for lifting and digging tasks. Loaders help move things throughout the site, but cranes are required for lifting and positioning heavy items. The right mixing of the components of concrete is ensured by concrete mixers. Modern technologies that rely on efficiency and precision, like GPS systems, have been made feasible by advancements in construction machinery.

According to SPER market research, ‘GCC Construction Machinery Market Size - By Machinery Type, By Application Type - Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecast to 2033’ state that the GCC Construction Machinery Market is predicted to reach USD 6.86 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 3.38%.

The market is anticipated to rise as a result of the region's expanding construction industry, rising crane demand, and growing inclination toward automation and telematics for market advancement. Nonetheless, the region's capacity to develop and market new construction equipment may be hampered by the rising demand for rental services.

Due to the numerous ongoing construction and water projects in countries like Oman and the United Arab Emirates, cranes are predicted to dominate the machinery market. However, it is projected that the construction industry will benefit from the government's increased infrastructure investment and the initiation of development projects in the upcoming years.

The shifting conditions in the GCC Construction Equipment Market are influenced by a number of challenges. Many GCC countries rely mostly on oil money to pay their construction projects, thus fluctuations in the economy, particularly those related to oil prices, provide a serious difficulty. Geopolitical disputes in the area may also impede construction efforts. The machinery industry is impacted by changes in standards and compliance requirements, which also increase the complexity of the regulatory environment. One recurring problem that makes it difficult to fully utilize modern construction equipment is the lack of skilled labor. Although increasing output is the goal of these robots, a lack of skilled operators could lead to project delays and higher running costs.

Request For Free Sample Report @ https://www.sperresearch.com/report-store/gcc-construction-machinery-market.aspx?sample=1

The COVID-19 pandemic had a detrimental effect on the market under review, mostly as a result of the construction and manufacturing industries ceasing. The governments of the Middle East also stopped expanding the pipeline and cut employees at the locations. As a result, the output of buildings has decreased. However, the market is expected to see significant expansion throughout the estimated period due to the increase in building activities, which is probably mostly caused by greater government backing and the global revival of construction activities.

GCC Construction Machinery Market Key Players:

Furthermore, The construction machinery industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is predicted to develop at the quickest rate among Middle Eastern countries, as the construction sector is a vital driver for the UAE's economy. Additionally some of the market players are: JCB, Kobelco Construction Machinery, Komatsu, Liebherr International AG, Mitsubishi, Sumitomo Construction Machinery, Volvo Construction Equipment Corp., Wirtgen Group, Others.

Middle East Construction Equipment Market Segmentation:

The SPER Market Research report seeks to give market dynamics, demand, and supply forecasts for the years up to 2033. This report contains statistics on product type segment growth estimates and forecasts.

By Machinery Type: Based on the Machinery Type, GCC Construction Machinery Market is segmented as; Crane, Excavator, Loaders and Backhoe, Motor Graders, Telescopic handles, Others.

By Application Type: Based on the Application Type, GCC Construction Machinery Market is segmented as; Concrete Construction Equipment, Earth Moving Equipment, Material Handling Equipment, Road Construction Equipment.

By Region: This research also includes data for Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Rest of GCC Countries.

This study also encompasses various drivers and restraining factors of this market for the forecast period. Various growth opportunities are also discussed in the report.

For More Information, refer to below link:-

Middle East Construction Equipment Market Demand

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Sara Lopes, Business Consultant – U.S.A.

SPER Market Research

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+1-347-460-2899

[mordormr]

Navigating Growth: Insights into the European Construction Equipment Market

The European construction equipment market is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, and robust infrastructure projects. As The Europe Construction Equipment Market Size is projected to be valued at USD 50.92 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 71.30 billion by 2029, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.96% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2029.

Key Market Overview

The European construction equipment market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, primarily fueled by government initiatives aimed at infrastructure development, an increase in urbanization, and a growing focus on green building practices. According to industry research, the market is projected to grow substantially, reflecting a strong recovery post-pandemic.

Key Trends Shaping the Market

Technological Advancements: The integration of advanced technologies like telematics, IoT, and AI is revolutionizing the construction equipment sector. Smart machinery equipped with real-time data analytics enhances operational efficiency, reduces downtime, and improves safety on job sites.

Sustainability Initiatives: As Europe emphasizes sustainability, construction equipment manufacturers are increasingly focusing on eco-friendly machinery. The demand for electric and hybrid equipment is on the rise, reducing emissions and energy consumption.

Infrastructure Development: Major infrastructure projects across Europe, including transportation networks, renewable energy facilities, and urban redevelopment, are driving the demand for construction equipment. Government investments in these sectors are bolstering market growth.

Rental Market Expansion: The rental market for construction equipment is gaining traction as companies seek to reduce capital expenditure and increase flexibility. Renting equipment allows firms to access the latest technology without the burden of ownership costs.

Labour Shortages: The construction industry faces labour shortages, prompting the need for automated equipment that can perform tasks with minimal human intervention. This trend is pushing manufacturers to innovate and develop machinery that enhances productivity.

Challenges in the Industry

While the market presents significant opportunities, it also faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, regulatory compliance, and the need for skilled operators. Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustaining growth in the competitive landscape.

Conclusion

The European construction equipment market is on a growth trajectory, driven by technological innovations and a commitment to sustainability. As the industry adapts to changing dynamics, companies that embrace advanced technologies and prioritize eco-friendly practices will be well-positioned to thrive. Keeping an eye on emerging trends will be essential for stakeholders to capitalize on the opportunities within this evolving market.

For a detailed overview and more insights, you can refer to the full market research report by Mordor Intelligence https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/europe-construction-equipment-market  

[ace1995]

ACE mobile cranes are one of the most reliable pick-and-carry cranes. We offer 10+ segments of mobile cranes in India that are most suitable for loading, unloading, moving, shifting, and erecting material. Our 15XW Pick-N-Carry is one of the best mobile cranes, with 15 tons of lifting capacity and a powerful engine of 48 BHP. 15XW mobile crane makes sure to make your lifting experience easy.

[vynzresearchreport]

Global Heavy Construction Equipment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Equipment Type, Application, End-Use Industry, and Region - Forecast till 2030

Global Heavy Construction Equipment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Product (Earth Moving Machinery, Material Handling Machinery, Concrete & Road Machinery, Others), by Application (Infrastructure, Real Estate, Commercial Buildings, Residential Buildings, Others), by End User (Oil & Gas Industry, Construction Industry, Military, and Mining), and Segment Forecasts, 2022–2030

The global heavy construction equipment market size is expected to reach USD 277.5 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 5% from 2022 to 2030. The growth of the market is driven by the rising construction activities in developing countries, increasing infrastructure investment, and growing urbanization.

Get a free sample copy of the research report: https://www.vynzresearch.com/automotive-transportation/heavy-construction-equipment-market/request-sample

Segmentation

The global heavy construction equipment market is segmented by product, application, end-user, and region.

By Product

The earth-moving machinery segment is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. This is due to the increasing demand for earth-moving equipment in infrastructure projects, such as road construction, building construction, and mining.

By Application

The infrastructure segment is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. This is due to the increasing investment in infrastructure projects by governments and private sector organizations.

By End User

The construction industry is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. This is due to the increasing demand for construction equipment in the construction of roads, buildings, and other infrastructure projects.

By Region

Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. This is due to the increasing infrastructure investment in countries such as China, India, and Indonesia.

Key Players

The key players in the global heavy construction equipment market are Caterpillar Inc., Komatsu Ltd., Volvo Construction Equipment AB, Terex Corporation, Liebherr AG, Hitachi Construction Machinery Co. Ltd., John Deere, Zoomlion Heavy Machinery Co. Ltd., CNH Industrial.

Market Trends

Some of the key trends in the global heavy construction equipment market include:

Increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly equipment

Growing adoption of automation and robotics in construction

Development of new technologies, such as 3D printing and augmented reality

Expansion of the market in developing countries

Market Drivers

The growth of the global heavy construction equipment market is driven by the following factors:

Rising construction activities in developing countries

Increasing infrastructure investment

Growing urbanization

Technological advancements

Increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly equipment

Market Challenges

The growth of the global heavy construction equipment market is challenged by the following factors:

The economic slowdown in developed countries

Fluctuation in raw material prices

Stringent environmental regulations

Opportunities

The global heavy construction equipment market offers the following opportunities:

Expansion of the market in developing countries

Growth of the infrastructure sector

Development of new technologies

The report also provides the following insights:

Competitive landscape of the global heavy construction equipment market

Market share analysis of the key players

Strategies adopted by the key players

Market forecast for the next 10 years

About Us:

VynZ Research is a global market research firm offering research, analytics, and consulting services on business strategies. We have a recognized trajectory record and our research database is used by many renowned companies and institutions worldwide to strategize and revolutionize business opportunities.

Source: VynZ Research

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Charlotte Clymer at Charlotte's Web Thoughts (10.15.2024):

This morning, the Harris-Walz campaign announced an extensive economic plan for rural communities. It’s a deeply impressive vision for working class families in these parts of the country. Given that much—perhaps, most—of political media will not adequately report on this and inform voters of what Vice President Harris plans to do for Rural America, I’m gonna take the rare step of publishing her plan, in full, as a blog post. I’m doing this because Lord knows we’re all more likely to see an intellectually dishonest column in The New York Times about Vice President Harris ignoring rural voters than we are to see significant reporting and analysis on her proposed policies for rural voters.

[...]

Vice President Harris and Governor Walz believe in rural communities and understand that supporting locally led solutions is key to rural prosperity. Their administration will make it a priority to equip the nearly 50 million rural Americans with the tools and resources they need not just to get by, but get ahead. Today, Vice President Harris and Governor Walz are announcing a plan for rural America. The key elements will:

Increase access to affordable and high-quality health care in rural communities—by adding 10,000 health care professionals, expanding telemedicine, cutting the number of ambulance deserts in half.

Support the sandwich generation to care for elders at home, lowering the cost of childcare and increasing the number of providers, and expanding the Child Tax Credit to provide tax cuts up to $6,000 for families with newborns.

Lower the costs of buying a home, starting and expanding a business, and raising a family—by sparking the construction of 3 million new housing units, providing up to $25,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers, increasing the small business tax deduction for startup expenses 10-fold to $50,000.

Invest in the future of American agriculture by boosting access to credit, land, and markets, building new markets and streams of income for small- and mid-sized farmers and producers, and supporting the rise of the next generation of American farmers and ranchers.

Donald Trump will turn back the hard-earned progress that rural communities are making. As President, he tried to repeal the Affordable Care Act and vows to terminate it if reelected, stripping protections from people with pre-existing conditions and devastating rural hospitals and care services. He will ban abortion nationwide, threaten access to contraception and IVF, and force states to monitor women’s pregnancies and report women’s miscarriages and abortions to the federal government.

Want a candidate who has real plans to help Rural Americans instead of bluster and grievances? The Kamala Harris and Tim Walz ticket have lots of great plans to help rural folk.

[charlesandmartine]

Sunday 17th November 2024

As we sat having breakfast in our little back garden and reading the UK news on our phones, we note all the similarities here. Midwives are threatening industrial action over pay, politicians are admitting taking freebies, trade tariffs with Trumps USA are a worry, housing shortage, 3 year waiting time for operation on public health system, banning under 16s from using social media, high inflation, moaning about paying £1/ litre for petrol/ diesel..... The list goes on.

The next stop is Cloncurry, only a couple of hours up the road, through endless outback with nothing of note on route. Except for Mary Kathleen. In the late 1950s, this was a town, an almost utopian town.

On Sunday 4 July 1954, Norm McConachy and John Walton were making their way along a dry creek when their truck broke down with a loose lead on a spark plug. McConachy is said to be the one who actually took the Geiger counter out of the truck and turned it on. As he continued walking up the dry creek bed, the instrument needle reportedly went off the scale. McConachy then called John Walton who was coaxing their broken-down vehicle back to life. The ore body was then discovered by following a 1.5 kilometre trail of radioactive boulders along the drainage system. The claim was pegged, and an application for a mining lease was lodged at the Mining Warden's office in Cloncurry

The deposit was named Mary Kathleen in honour of Norm McConachy's wife, who had died shortly before their discovery. And so it was that the very valuable commodity Uranium was discovered. The town of Mary Kathleen was constructed in just one year to serve the mining operation which commenced in October 1956 with the treatment plant commissioning in June 1958. The contract was to supply UK Atomic Energy Authority with £40M worth of Uranium Oxide. In the first five years, 4080 tonnes were produced, shipped in 44 Gallon drums to England.

The community built in Mary Kathleen comprised 1,100 families and 200 single men. The town was well equipped with an Olympic size swimming pool, schools, churches, pubs, restaurants, library, cinema, sporting club, general stores, two banks, milk bar, cafes, and hospital. They really did have a modern town, with everything they needed. Rio Tinto, their employer, charged families $8 per week for a 2 bedroomed house, free electricity, no rates, free amenities, and good pay. During the years 1956-1963, a 23 acre market garden was established to provide fresh fruit, veg, and eggs for the town. All they had to was go mine large quantities of a nasty radioactive substance like Uranium.

By 1963 the contract with the UK had been satisfied. A second phase of mining was completed between 1974 and 1982 shipping Uranium Oxide to Japan. After that, the production finished, the buildings were dismantled and sold leaving empty streets of concrete slabs, dwarf walls, tumble weed and a monument to the town's completion. Very little now remains that could demonstrate the vibrant town that once stood there, the lives that it would have represented, the vitality of human day to day existence, testimonies of happy enriched lives, or even tales tinged with sadness, gone with so little to show for it.

Once again, Mr Europcar would've slept uneasily as we followed the brown sign and uphill to the quarry along a very poor road, partially paved, partially unpaved, but together with the grandaddy of all potholes. The nuts and bolts shuddered and shook until we reached a distance of 6km and felt compassion for the Ford and completed the rest of the journey on foot. So we trudged, hatted, up the stony road a further kilometre until the vista opened and there in its glory was the long disused quarry with its pyramid stepped sides of sheer granite leading down and down to assure blue waters, lying so still far below us. The use of this place was dissolved in 1982 and has lain undisturbed, dormant, relatively unvisited ever since. Apart from 4x4 vehicles, it is unapproachable, largely unsigned, on the tourist trail, but difficult to find or access. In the time we were there 3 other 4x4s managed the distance and poor roads. But for us, the experience was well worth the effort, to see the abandoned town where the people who worked this place lived their lives and then the relic of their labours now living its eternity in peace and tranquility now the big earth/ rock movers, the dust, the dirt have now long gone, a monument that tells its own story if anyone can get to listen to it.

Completing our journey to Cloncurry was simple once we managed to find our way out of the abandoned town. In their flight, all signs back to the Barkly Highway had gone!

Happy Birthday, Karen x

ps. We went out for a little walk around the little town at around 8.30 tonight, so warm, and it's like a ghost town. All shut up for the night. These Aussies really are party animals. Worst thing is the Cloncurry Baker's. We'd heard nothing but good things about the famous Cloncurry Curry Pie. Disastrously, the appalling news stuck to the baker's window stated that due to some miscreant member of staff not showing up and letting everybody down, let alone the whole town down, the Cloncurry Bakers will remain closed!!! Bang goes my pie then.

pps. It has to be stated firmly here that this is definitely a neat, tidy, clean, and comly town of charming character. It is a complete surprise and exceeds our expectations by quite a long way. We shall do well here, I feel on our two nights.

[acerathia]

pink camellias

pairing: Bakugou Katsuki / Female Reader

length: 3.2k || Chapter 1: purple hyacinth

summary: Stuck as an heiress to the marquisate, you desperately wished to escape for an adventure. So the moment you heard of the recruitment for the war, you took the opportunity and went instead of your father. Equipped with your trusty sword, you thought yourself prepared for every possible situation. Until Bakugou appeared.

tags/cw: romance, Alternate Universe - Victorian, aged up characters, Minor Character Death, Original Character Death(s), Light Angst, Childhood Friends, Inspired by Mulan (Disney Movies)

This work is inspired by the in cinders au by andypantsx3 go check it out!!

You opened the windows as soon as you woke up. As the soft sunlight warmed your skin, you watched the breeze rustle the flowers of the garden. 

Beyond that garden was a beautifully constructed posh house, barely blocking your view to the adjacent village. The rows of different houses gave the scenery a special kind of feel. The view was breathtaking, the bustling of all these people making you feel alive under your skin. 

You stood by the window, trying to discern the lives of the common people below you in the valley. There was a small stripe of forest bordering the village and the mansion, which stood atop a hill. 

“I wonder how life is down there”, you mumbled before looking back to your bed.

The softest of fabric was spread over the king-sized bed and you slowly stepped closer, your hand enjoying the feel of silk between your fingers. Then with a tiny jump you threw yourself onto the mattress, sinking deeply in its comfort and warmth.

With a sigh, you tried to imagine living in such a village. Maybe you would operate a bakery, making tasty bread and confects. You would wake up early, which you usually would never even think about, but this was only imaginary. If you were lucky, you could watch the sunrise for some time, while waiting for the dough to rise. Your hands would be kneading and caressing the dough into different, but nonetheless tasty goodies for the day, the lit oven warming your back with a gentle sigh. It would hug the soft dough and prepare it for the day.

After the bread and sweets would be ready, you would open up the shop, awaiting the first jingle of the door. You would, as usual, greet the oncoming customers, the ones you saw regularly with some deep questions, and the newer ones with some welcoming small talk. Your heart would beat in happiness every time something of yours would find its home somewhere else. And if everything got sold, you would close the shop and head to the market to replenish some of your necessities. If not, you would go around and give the bread to someone who would need it at the moment, not wanting to let anyone go hungry. 

You imagined such a routine to be relaxing and enjoyable, especially connecting with so many people. The wish to go out and change something for yourself lit a spark, even if the possibility of leaving this place without guard would never happen. 

Some day you would wake up with the hope of appearing in another place, like the characters in your stories. Landing inside a novel with the knowledge of every scenario, being actively a part of some grand scheme or an adventure. But no matter how long you kept your eyes closed, you stayed in your little bland life. 

Sometimes you would dare to write down some ideas, with your scrawly font. And while doing so you blamed yourself for not listening to your teacher when learning how to write. But you wrote. You wrote every little idea that emerged in your little head. Huffing and puffing when the intricate dreams vanished after waking up. 

With a low grumble, you stared at your ceiling. You grew weary of only imagining things and felt the urge, the desire to actually live your own adventure. 

“My Lady, I’ve brought water to wash up”, the voice of your maid Hana sounded before she entered the room. 

You furrowed your brows, wondering how long you had been lying there, and if you would succeed in sneaking out, if your maid wouldn’t be so punctual. But you only greeted her and rolled from the bed to walk towards a stool.

While you were washing your face, Hana brushed your hair gently and got rid of all the knots taking residence on top of your head. You looked into the mirror, feeling the soft towel on your skin. 

This was your face, even if you wished you were another person. No matter what you think, the baby fat on your face would not dwindle until much later. For a moment you wondered how soon your birthday was. 

“You should go to the dining room to eat some breakfast, my Lady.”, Hana told you, after helping you into a simple baby blue wrapper. Something simple for your indoor endeavors, as you did not plan on leaving this mansion any time soon. 

With a nod you made your way to the dining room, greeting your father, who was leaning over some papers spread over the table. 

“Good morning sweetie, did you sleep well?”, he asked while stretching his arms for a hug and a kiss on the cheek. 

“Yes, thank you for asking, Father.”, you smiled with a slight crook, before turning to greet your mother the same way. 

After the greetings, you took a seat and started eating your breakfast. 

Despite the current silence at the table you were quite attached to your parents, as they were to you. They both were loving and warm and so doting on their only daughter. And who were you to resist getting spoiled like that? You would do anything for your parents, and even if you longed to go outside and experience new things, you were aware how your disappearance would break their hearts, and yours. 

“Ah, we’re supposed to return to the palace today, did you prepare your luggage, or did you forget again?”, your mother started speaking with an amused smile after finishing the meal.

“Mother! Of course, I prepared everything! But, I’m still going to ensure that everything has its place.”, you hurriedly responded and jumped from your seat. Soft chuckle followed you out of the room. 

How could you forget the return to the palace? Your father was the marquess and your mother attended to the queen herself. And despite your current young age, you wanted to make a good impression on the people living there, even if they may have already formed one around your person. But nothing speaks against working to better those impressions. 

With the help of your maid, you threw everything you may need in that visit into a tiny case, fitting for your tiny stuff. And when Hana suggested you take your stuffed cat with you, you vehemently refused. Because what if someone saw it and thought of you as inferior? Especially little kids your age, they were usually the most vicious and you refused to be the victim of their bullying. 

After making sure everything was in order, you let your maid help you into some outdoor gown with the same blue color as the other one. With a fitting pair of gloves and a bonnet, you were ready to leave your home for your stay at the palace. 

Clutching Hana’s hand you made your way outside to the awaiting carriage. The coachman already heaving their luggage into its respective space. But you didn’t need his help to get into the carriage, not even Hana’s help. You grabbed some of the fabric of your dress and took the large step with one stride. The next step let you tumble into the insides of the carriage, where you immediately acted like everything went as planned. 

Hana took the seat in front of you and the car slowly left the property. You knew that your parents were in the carriage in front of yours, so you did not fret and simply enjoyed the passing sights of the marquisate.

After a couple of minutes, someone slightly shook you and you blearily opened your eyes. You didn’t remember closing them in the first place. Did you already arrive at your destination? That was weird, you thought the way would take some hours. But beggars shouldn’t be choosers and you didn’t mind that very convenient time skip of sleep. Even if you now felt tired and grumpy. 

With half-closed lids you let Hana lead you to the inside of the palace, where you already occupy a room. This wasn’t the first time your character visited the palace, but every time felt like it was. And no matter how much you wanted to look around, you felt drained and wanted nothing more than to continue your nap in peace. 

The moment you stepped into the room, you threw yourself onto the bed, without care of your bonnet falling off your head. But for some reason you could not fall asleep again, making you whine into the soft pillows, before sitting up. 

And before you could even plan anything for the afternoon, someone started knocking on your door. 

“Hello! We were wondering if you wanted to play knights with us?”, a boy your age with bright green eyes, Izuchan,  asked you with a smile, the moment you opened the door. Another was lingering with crossed arms and a slight scowl. 

You turned to look at Hana, who just nodded with a sigh before you also nodded to the boys in front of you. “Yes! I’d love to participate in a game!”

With that, you followed them outside, where the sun shone upon your heads and warmed you slightly. 

They immediately started clashing their wooden swords and began screaming something about ‘villains’ and ‘crime’. You wondered when it would be your turn, but you didn’t hold a wooden sword in your hands. 

For some reason you felt the need to fix it, so you started wandering to the training camp of the real knights, looking for some kind of sword you might be able to use. 

The only thing you discovered were of course actual knights in training. Their movements and the swing of the sword in their hands were mesmerizing and you could not help yourself but stare. Their flow seemed like a hidden dance, its steps only obtained by the truly worthy. 

You felt trapped in watching the blades clash, eliciting bursts of tiny stars. A desire to wield this magic grew in you and a grin formed itself across your face. Now you fully understood the reason everyone admired knights. And you desired to be one. 

You barely managed to rip your gaze from their dangerous dance only to see the object you were seeking only minutes ago. Without a second thought, you grabbed the wooden sword to return to the fighting boys. Only to see them running towards the training grounds, their gaze focused on something behind you. 

And what were you supposed to do but follow them? So you ran with them towards a group of people converging around a massive person. 

“Allmight!”, Izuchan gasped and started talking about the best knight in this whole kingdom and you couldn’t do anything but listen with rapt attention and interest. 

Kacchan tried to get to the overrun knight, but before he had the possibility of reaching him, Allmight found the right timing to detach himself from the crowd and thus was missed when the boy finally broke through. 

The blond started raging, concealing his disappointment in a fit of anger and screams. The other boy tried to calm him down, yelling ‘Kacchan’ to get his attention.

Undeterred by his outburst you gripped the wooden sword tighter in your hand and declared something to him, maybe you hoped to calm him down or to distract him from his missing hero. 

“I am going to be a knight! One better than you!”, you declared war on these two young boys, who were supposed to be your friends, but your ambitions seemed to destroy any semblance of kinship. 

“Hah? A girl can’t be a knight, are you stupid?”, Kacchan immediately replied, his anger only simmering, but directed at you nonetheless. 

“You’re stupid!”

While you could have replied with a better comeback, annoyance made your brain empty, only the desire to show him filling you to the brim. 

Without waiting for the next words of this brash boy, you turned and ran towards the toy dummy, which has been abandoned offside the actual training grounds. You didn’t care if your dress stained, the seams filling with mud, as you hit the dummy repeatedly, acting as if you were already a seasoned knight. 

The two boys joined you soon after. And while the blond and you could not do anything but push each other into anger, you still played with your wooden swords, even if any of you would have dared to say that it has been a fight for life and death. 

And if your maid clicked her tongue and reprimanded you for ruining your dress, you only responded with your dreams and hopes of becoming a knight. Out of necessity, your maid had, soon after that conversation full of sighs and aspirations, sewn you some proper clothing resembling the ones of a knight. 

With your pants and shirt, you continued to fight your friends at every possibility, even if it meant getting stained in blue blood underneath your skin and ripped hair between your fingernails. 

***

The seasons have passed and you still lived at the palace with your mother. You spent your daily life studying everything this place had to offer and everything your duty obliged you. But the moment you managed to free yourself some time, the people found you in a pair of pants, swinging that old wooden sword with your friends. 

Finally, you had finished your reading for the day, getting some free time for your extracurricular activities. But before the teacher could properly dismiss you, your maid knocked and entered the room, a grave expression marring her face. 

“Miss, I’m afraid, your mother is at death's door…”, she started speaking, but you jumped from your chair, grabbing the fabric of your dress to allow you to run as fast as you managed. 

Your mother, your dear, loving mother, laid there, unmoving in her too-big bed. Her pale frame almost sunk into the soft fabric of the bedding and you were afraid. You were so afraid to step too close and to hurt her. 

Still, you carefully sat at the end of the bed, taking her hand in yours, as soft as your rough hands cared to achieve. You only had eyes for her, everyone around you nothing but a blur. Nonetheless, you caught some pieces of information from the people hurrying around you in a senseless frenzy. The white plague. Your mother has been suffering under the act of consumption for longer than any of the people around her anticipated. Her paleness mistaken for lack of sun and worry. Her feverishly red cheeks and lips simply for a mistake in the chosen shade. 

You wondered how long she had been plagued by this illness. How long had she been suffering without anyone taking notice? Had she already known prior to this? 

Suddenly her lack of presence in your life in the last couple of months started to make sense. She knew you would have noticed her lack of energy immediately. How could you not? Your mother used to be the sun in any dark room. Her presence soothing and warm, even if bright. This woman in front of you was nothing but a pale, sick shadow of her old self. And it hurt you.

It hurt to see the most important person in your life suffer and on the brink of death. Oh, how you would do anything to soothe her aches and take her pains away. 

Something cold dripped onto your hands, but you were not able to find the source of those tiny drops. Not until you took a shuddering gasp and a sob broke free, your lungs yearning to scream and cry. 

Even if you grew weary and bored of your life, you cared for this woman, it drove you crazy. How were you supposed to move on after this? 

People grabbed your sobbing shoulders, but you refused to let go of her frail hand. Someone was whispering empty words into you and you didn’t react with anything but a heartbreaking wail, lowering your head against her hand, pressing her cold skin against your cheeks. 

Despite your vehement protest, someone managed to loosen your grip around your dead mother, leading you into your room. After getting pushed onto your own bed, everything became a blur. 

You barely noticed getting moved around or getting into a carriage. The only thing you numbly remember was the regret of not telling your friends about your hasty departure. Even if you yourself had not known about it until you arrived back at the mansion you used to live at. You supposed this was your actual home, even if the palace felt more like it. 

After your arrival at the mansion, you refused to eat and did not leave your room under any circumstance. At some point, your father's worry grew and he started trying to lure you with different things. Most of them got no reaction from you at all. 

“Hello dear. How have you been?”, he asked with a soft voice, taking a seat at the end of the bed. You gave him a tired smile as an answer, your voice itching and scratching. 

“Good, good.”, he nodded, taking your hand in his. “I know I have said it multiple times already, but you need to get out a bit… I know, I know. But she would not want you to suffer in such a dark room.” He tried to persuade you, already knowing your answer, even just with your nonverbal facial expressions. 

“How about this: You still want to be a knight, don’t you? Well, then we shall get you some proper sword master to teach you. Can’t have you swing a wooden sword without instructions forever.”, and his suggestion made you perk up. 

You still wanted to master swordsmanship, but your father had never supported that particular endeavor of yours. Until to this day, it appeared. Even if the circumstances should have been better, your mother should have been there to celebrate that milestone with you. Still, you knew she would have wanted you to run towards your dreams, even if she wasn’t there. You decided to dedicate this work of life to her before you agreed to your father's suggestion with a slight nod and a hesitant smile. 

And your agreement seemed to spark some happiness in the eyes of your old man, as his smile gained that special depth. Without further words, because you simply didn’t need to, he pecked your forehead, before standing up. And if he pulled the curtains open and let you bask in the warmth of the estranged sun before he left your room, then so be it. Because this time, the sun didn’t symbolize another day without her, but a new opportunity dedicated to her, in remembrance of her. Starting with that day, you promised yourself to think of her every time you held a sword. Your dear beloved memories with her would lend you whatever strength you would have needed in any possible situation. 

Your gaze wanders out of your window, into the beautiful garden. And you were mesmerized by the whipping flowers, almost like it was your first time seeing them. With this breathtaking, familiar view you held your promise close to your heart and planned on never letting go.