Bhubaneswar's Skyward Surge: A Call for Cutting-Edge Construction Techniques

In 2020, Bhubaneswar's real estate landscape underwent a transformative shift with the relaxation of Floor Area Ratio (FAR) regulations. Previously capped at 2.75, the FAR was increased to an impressive 7, one of the highest permissible ratios in India. This landmark policy change dramatically increased the allowable built-up area relative to plot size, enabling developers to construct much taller and denser buildings than ever before.

For a city historically characterised by mid-rise structures and horizontal growth, this new FAR policy has ushered in an era of vertical expansion, redefining Bhubaneswar’s skyline and paving the way for ambitious high-rise projects. However, with this newfound opportunity comes a pressing challenge: can local developers and contractors rise to the occasion with the expertise, technology, and materials needed to construct safe, sustainable, and high-quality skyscrapers?

This question is critical because while FAR relaxation unlocks immense potential, the execution of these high-rise projects requires the adoption of cutting-edge construction techniques and technologies. Without them, the quality, safety, and longevity of these buildings could be compromised, leading to structural issues that may surface during construction, at completion, or even years later.

Prefabrication and Modular Construction: The Future of Efficiency

Prefabrication and modular construction are revolutionizing the building industry in cities like Hyderabad and Mumbai, offering solutions that Bhubaneswar can readily adopt. By manufacturing components off-site and assembling them on-site, these techniques provide:

• Faster Project Delivery: Modular construction reduces on-site work, enabling quicker completions. In a market like Bhubaneswar, where timely delivery is a competitive edge, this efficiency is invaluable.
• Enhanced Quality: Controlled manufacturing environments ensure precision and consistency, mitigating the risks associated with on-site errors.
• Sustainability: Prefabrication reduces material wastage and energy consumption, aligning with global green building practices.

For example, Mumbai’s Lodha Group has successfully integrated modular construction in its premium residential projects, achieving reduced timelines and higher quality standards. Bhubaneswar’s developers can emulate such strategies to stay competitive.

Aluminium Formwork Technology: Precision Meets Speed

Aluminium formwork systems, popularised by brands like Mivan and Knest, are transforming high-rise construction. Already a staple in Hyderabad's and Mumbai’s real estate markets, this technology offers:

• Accelerated Construction Cycles: Faster assembly and disassembly help reduce project durations.
• Smooth Finishes: Aluminium formwork ensures uniform wall and slab surfaces, reducing the need for additional plastering or finishing work.
• Cost Efficiency: With reusability as a key feature, this technology cuts down on material costs over multiple projects.

Local developers can adopt aluminium formwork to manage the rising demand for premium projects while maintaining high-quality standards.

Jumpform Technology: A Skyscraper’s Best Friend

Jumpform technology is specifically designed for high-rise construction, addressing the challenges of vertical expansion. This technology allows for:

• Continuous Vertical Construction: Ensuring uninterrupted progress, which is crucial for skyscrapers.
• Improved Safety: By reducing the need for scaffolding, jumpform enhances worker safety.
• Resource Efficiency: Minimal reliance on cranes and manual labour for repetitive tasks reduces costs.

Cities like Hyderabad have deployed jumpform technology in iconic projects such as the Phoenix Trivium towers, setting benchmarks for speed and safety. Bhubaneswar developers can replicate this success to cater to the growing demand for commercial and residential skyscrapers.

High-Strength Materials for Resilient Structures

The use of advanced materials like high-strength concrete and cross-laminated timber (CLT) can revolutionise construction in Bhubaneswar.

• High-Strength Concrete: Widely used in high-rise projects, it offers better load-bearing capacity and resistance to environmental wear and tear.
• Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT): Though less common in India, CLT presents an eco-friendly alternative, offering excellent strength-to-weight ratios while promoting sustainability.

Cities like Bangalore have successfully integrated high-strength concrete into their projects, showcasing its potential to improve structural integrity and longevity. For Bhubaneswar, adopting such materials will not only future-proof buildings but also contribute to creating a modern, sustainable skyline.

Overcoming Challenges in Adopting Modern Techniques

While these technologies promise significant benefits, their adoption in Bhubaneswar faces challenges, such as:

• Skill Gaps: Local contractors may lack the technical expertise to implement these techniques effectively.
• Cost Perception: Initial costs for advanced technologies may deter developers despite long-term savings.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Building codes and local regulations may not fully accommodate innovative materials and methods.

To overcome these barriers, developers can:

1. Invest in Training: Partnering with global technology providers to upskill the local workforce ensures effective implementation.
2. Engage Experts: Collaborate with experienced consultants who specialise in high-rise construction technologies.
3. Leverage Incentives: Work with government bodies to secure incentives for adopting sustainable and advanced methods, as seen in other progressive Indian cities.

Conclusion: Building Bhubaneswar’s Future

As Bhubaneswar continues its vertical expansion, embracing cutting-edge construction techniques is not merely a choice but a responsibility. Technologies like prefabrication, aluminium formwork, and jumpform can transform the city's construction landscape, ensuring projects are completed faster, safer, and with greater quality. By prioritising modern materials and methods, Bhubaneswar can position itself as a leader in sustainable and innovative urban development.

The time to act is now. Developers must look beyond traditional methods and adopt future-ready approaches to build a skyline that reflects not only ambition but also resilience and vision.