India's construction industry faces productivity challenges

Over the past five years, the industry has grown steadily, and it continues to be the largest employer and a major pillar of the economy. Poor labor productivity is one of several significant concerns associated with the Indian construction sector.

India's construction sector suffers from poor labor productivity quite often, but the underlying reasons are rarely explored.

Main Causes of Low Production Rate in India

Companies and contractors also hesitate to use the most recent technologies and tools due to costs, fear of being unable to manage changes, and additional training requirements.

Construction productivity in India is limited due to several factors. One major reason is the ratio of in-house and contracted labor. In addition, skilled labor is in short supply & there are no labor welfare policies in place. It is also important to focus on safe working conditions.

About 48,000 deaths occur at workplaces in India every year, and 38 fatal accidents occur on Indian construction sites every day. The above numbers are alarming in and of themselves, but accident related stoppages, inspections, and investigations also pose a significant productivity challenge.

Solution of Low Production Rate in India

Proper Onsite Training

Construction workers will also be more motivated and productive when they know and understand tools, compliance requirements, safety practices, and techniques.

1. With the advent of technologies and tools, such as Building Information Modeling, modular construction, and off-site construction, construction workflows have been undergoing major changes.
2. It is only through the adaptation of construction workers and other stakeholders to these technologies and tools that they can use them effectively. It is imperative that those affected by the changes are explained what the changes mean. They are made aware of how such automated and computerized systems can help them achieve their performance goals.
3. The goal of improving productivity on India's construction sites requires effective workplace training in the long run. Educating employees on the latest tools and techniques, workflows, health and safety measures, and communication strategies can help ensure high productivity and efficiency.

Remote Tracking & Digital Tools

Technology can detect issues, such as the possibility of an accident, improper usage of construction tools, or lack of workers in a particular area, and rectify them.

1. The safety situation of construction tools & equipment can also be determined with the help of automated trackers and performance measurement tools.
2. The details captured can develop and implement smart maintenance schedules for construction equipment. In addition to reducing workplace accidents, improved tools and equipment will increase productivity.
3. Construction managers and leaders can use technology to resolve productivity issues and reap other benefits. Continuously Monitoring the construction site and ongoing activities is essential to identifying and fixing gaps.
4. Indian construction sites can benefit from drones and body cameras, technological innovations that can enhance safety. Managers will be able to access site information in real time using these devices.
5. Managers cannot physically be present on construction sites all the time due to their large locations. Managers and leaders can benefit from such digital tools. Also, these can help reduce productivity gaps, leading to better productivity.

Key Communication

Cost overruns of twenty to twenty five percent are common in Indian construction projects. In many cases, cost overruns are associated with and accompanied by time slippages. Construction security in India has suffered massive losses due to poor productivity and unexpected cost increases.

1. It is effective to resolve such concerns by maintaining information transparency. Nonstop connectivity and information sharing can be achieved with integrated project management systems, automated control systems, and intuitive communication tools.
2. Construction managers can update site information by using remote monitoring and tracking tools. Workers' concerns can be resolved in real time using digital communication tools on construction sites.
3. Collaborative decision making with BIM can result in quicker resolution of problems and increased productivity through frequent status reporting and information sharing.
4. When workers encounter poor working conditions or concerns about the site, they can contact the Chief Engineers and Architects.
5. BIM platforms allow all team members to work on the same information, which improves team collaboration and transparency.

Wrapping it Up

The site productivity improvement will be accomplished through effective communication using technologies and modified strategies.

Several challenges face construction sites in India, but productivity concerns top the list. Productivity can be improved through a combination of measures and strategies. It is possible to make a huge difference using digital tools for tracking, monitoring, and communication.

While using project management tools, automated control systems, and performance measurement applications, equipment will be more accessible and usable and facilitate better clarity and quicker resolution. Health and safety conditions will be improved by proper maintenance and workplace training. You can combine these factors to get a comprehensive strategy to boost construction productivity.