Bengaluru significantly impacts Karnataka’s economy, contributing 43.65% to the state’s GSDP and 8.2% to the national economy. As India’s largest market for ready-mix concrete, Bengaluru accounts for one-third of the country’s total consumption of 3.5 million cubic meters. The city is experiencing a surge in construction activities across both commercial and residential sectors. Additionally, Bengaluru has seen the registration of approximately 900,000 MSME units, attracting talent from other states due to its high employment elasticity. The adoption of green building materials and advanced technologies like BIM and 3D printing is transforming the local construction landscape.
The show preview of World of Concrete India 2024, held in Bengaluru, showcased the city’s pivotal role in the sector. This event provided a glimpse into the advancements and innovations that will be featured at the main exhibition, highlighting Bengaluru’s position as a leading hub for the concrete and construction industry.
10th Edition of World of Concrete India to Showcase technologies Set to Shape the Future of Construction Industry
• The 10th Anniversary edition of World of Concrete India 2024 set to take place during 16-18 the October 2024 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai
• As a Preview, the Show held an insightful roundtable discussion with Key Industry Speakers in Bengaluru
• The event is estimated to attract over 300 Exhibitors, 15,000 trade visitors, esteemed policymakers, decision-makers, influencers, technical experts and professionals.
Bengaluru, 12th Sep 2024: Informa Markets in India, a leading trade exhibition organiser, hosted an exclusive roundtable discussion today at The Park, Bengaluru, as a preview to ‘World of Concrete India 2024,’ the most significant event in the concrete and construction industry. The event is scheduled to take place from October 16th – 18th October 2024, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. With India’s construction sector currently valued at USD 639 billion and expected to grow at a CAGR of 6%, it is projected to reach USD 1.4 trillion by 2025, underscoring the importance of this expo for industry stakeholders.
The roundtable discussion in Bengaluru brought together a panel of esteemed industry leaders, including Mr. Gopinath Krishnan, Managing Director of Ardex Endura; Mr. Subodh Nene, Infrastructure Head at MAPEI; Ms. Saranya Subramanian, CEO of Merlin Automation Solutions; Mr. Manoj Rustagi, Chief Sustainability and Innovation Officer at JSW Cement; Mr. Raj Pillai, Founder, Coherent Engineering Services, Mr HalarameshwaraChannaveerappa, Founder of DU Buildsure and Honorary Secretary of NARDECO Karnataka State Chapter and Member of Governing Council NARDECO National and Mr Rajneesh Khattar, Senior Group Director, Informa Markets in India. The panel delved into the evolving landscape of the concrete and construction industry, focusing on key areas such as sustainable practices, innovation in green concrete, and the industry’s future outlook. The discussion also highlighted the challenges posed by regulatory policies and the need for a collaborative approach to drive technological advancements and eco-friendly solutions, ensuring long-term growth and resilience in the sector.
Mr. Manoj Rustagi, Chief Sustainability and Innovation Officer (CSIO), JSW Cement, said “The recent focus on sustainability, particularly within cement and concrete, has driven a deeper commitment to the cause, with efforts concentrated on reducing CO2 emissions and enhancing energy efficiency.
India’s annual consumption of cement stands at approximately 440 million tons, 100 million tons consumed by the U.S. and the less than 200 million tons used by all of Europe. However, India’s current consumption is still far below China’s 2,000 million tons. With India aspiring to be a developed nation by 2047, the potential to reach similar levels is significant, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, housing, and commercial development.
India currently leads in energy efficiency, with specific CO2 emissions at 530 kg per ton, lower than the global average of 580-590 kg. Yet, there is a long journey ahead, with a vision to reduce emissions further in alignment with India’s net-zero goals for 2070. The roadmap is supported by collaborations with organizations like GCCI, CII, FICCI, and NITI Aayog.
Mr. Gopinath Krishnan, Managing Director, Ardex Endura, said” India’s urban infrastructure, while progressing, still faces significant gaps when compared to global standards in areas such as safety, hygiene, and longevity. The primary issue lies in planning, where there has been an overwhelming focus on cost-driven innovation. India is at a pivotal moment, with its young population creating significant markets and a growing global presence. The shift towards India as a hub for capability centers, R&D, and manufacturing positions it as a strong competitor in the global arena, especially with the “China plus one” strategy gaining momentum.
The focus must now shift to building long-lasting infrastructure. Frequent repairs compared to countries with durable solutions highlight the need for a life cycle approach, rather than just cost-cutting. Sustainability is key, with carbon credits soon playing a major role. The World of Concrete India offers a vital platform to address these challenges and drive innovation in sustainable infrastructure.
Mr. HalarameshwaraChannaveerappa, Founder of DU Buildsure, said, “The National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) is crucial in bridging technological gaps by collaborating with government bodies and industry stakeholders. NAREDCO is actively engaging with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, through initiatives such as the NIPUN (National Initiative for Promoting Upskilling of Nirman Workers) and NIRED (National Initiative for Promoting Upskilling of Nirman Workers). Despite advancements in construction technologies and materials, a significant challenge remains: the shortage of skilled manpower. Addressing this gap is essential for the industry to keep pace with technological progress.
Developers, particularly those in B and C category sectors, are currently grappling with issues such as statutory compliance, recent RERA regulations, and taxation complexities. While numerous construction technologies are available, the availability of a skilled workforce continues to be the industry’s most pressing challenge.We anticipate that events like the World of Concrete India plays a pivotal role in advancing India’s goal of ‘Housing for All,’ as envisioned by the Honorable Prime Minister. Such initiatives are vital for ensuring that every Indian has access to quality housing.”
Ms. Saranya Subramanian, CEO, Merlin Automation Solutions, said“3D printing technology, still emerging in India, shows significant potential. It enables the construction of structures with minimal deviations (less than 3-4 mm), reducing material waste and improving quality. This layer-by-layer concrete printing process enhances precision and reduces the need for extensive finishing work.
Key projects include the construction of 80 bus stops in Tamil Nadu and the development of educational buildings in Arunachal Pradesh. In Chandigarh, a G+2 structure was completed within one month, while two classrooms in Arunachal Pradesh were built within two months, featuring a unique hornbill design. Notably, 28,000 square feet were constructed using the world’s largest 3D printer. Additionally, the technology has been used to construct 10-50 schools, with the initiative supported directly by the Chief Minister’s office in Arunachal Pradesh
Challenges such as site management and process optimization are being addressed through ongoing innovations, including mobile 3D printing systems and new materials. Support from both central and state governments is crucial for advancing this technology.
Mr. Subodh Nene, Infrastructure Head, MAPEI, said “With over 20 years of experience in the concrete industry, notable advancements in India have been observed. India is at the forefront of concrete innovation, setting global standards in both product development and sustainable practices. Efforts are focused on reducing carbon dioxide emissions by utilizing auxiliary cementitious materials and exploring complete replacements for traditional cement. This approach aims to lower the environmental impact of concrete production.
Ongoing innovations in supplementary materials are enhancing concrete properties without compromising quality. India’s leadership in these advancements highlights its significant role in shaping global concrete industry practices.”
Mr. Raj Pillai, Founder, Coherent Engineering Services, said “The evolution of technology from roadside mixing to modern truck systems has been remarkable. India is poised to experience significant growth in construction, potentially leading to global development over the next few decades.Current infrastructure needs are extensive, including roads, highways, airports, and housing. Despite advancements, challenges remain in delivering world-class quality and ensuring that end users receive the benefits they deserve.
The focus should be on adopting global benchmarks in construction. Issues such as low-bid contracts and regulatory hurdles undermine quality. By aligning with international standards and practices, India can advance its infrastructure and achieve superpower status. World of Concrete India serves as a platform to showcase global practices and set new benchmarks for construction quality in India.
Mr. Rajneesh Khattar, Senior Group Director, Informa Markets in India, said“Infrastructure development is vital for India’s economic growth, with road networks serving as the backbone of logistics and commerce. The Government of India’s Sagar Mala project focuses on coastal port development, while efforts to enhance airports and create 100 smart cities aim to improve connectivity and urban infrastructure. The real estate sector, driven by the ‘Housing for All’ initiative, supports residential, commercial, and industrial growth, reflecting the interconnected nature of infrastructure and real estate demands.
Technological advancements like 3D printing in concrete are transforming construction, though adoption in India is still emerging compared to global leaders. Embracing sustainability through energy-efficient practices and reducing environmental impacts is crucial for long-term progress. India’s construction market, the third largest globally after China and the US, is growing rapidly but must address workforce challenges and ensure proper training and fair labour practices.This commitment to advancing infrastructure and sustainable practices highlights India’s progress on the global stage while addressing national priorities.”
Building on the success of previous editions, the 10th Anniversary edition of the World of Concrete India is set to be a pivotal event for the construction industry. This year’s exhibition will gather over 15,000 industry professionals and feature more than 300 brands and exhibitors from around the world, from countries such as Germany, Italy, USA, Kuwait, South Korea, Finland, Japan etc. Showcasing a wide range of products and technologies related to concrete, masonry, and construction, the event highlights its growing significance within the industry. It serves as a critical platform for networking, where construction professionals can engage with suppliers, manufacturers, and industry experts to exchange ideas, knowledge, and innovations. Attendees will include end-users such as contractors, sub-contractors, purchasing and construction managers, and project managers. Influencers, including architects, consultants, structural and civil engineers, as well as buyers from real estate, government, municipal authorities, state corporations, investors, and planning engineers, will also be present.
Centred on the themes of innovation and sustainability, World of Concrete India 2024 will run over three business-packed days, offering a significant platform to highlight advanced concrete technologies, equipment, and game-changing industry innovations. This event will include an extensive three-day knowledge forum and conference, focusing on emerging trends such as digital transformation and sustainable construction techniques. Attendees can expect a range of activities, including an inaugural ceremony, dynamic panel discussions, exclusive CEO and CTO conclaves, Women in Construction session, product showcases, masterclasses, B2B meetings, and specialized pavilions. The event will also recognize industry achievements through prestigious awards, creating a holistic experience that encourages innovation, explores future trends, and celebrates excellence in the construction sector.
Speaking on the announcement of the 10th Anniversary Edition of World of Concrete India, Mr Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India said, “India’s concrete industry is central to our nation’s infrastructure development and economic growth, with promising advancements on the horizon. The revised GDP forecast of 7% for FY2024-25, driven by increasing rural consumption and robust domestic demand, reinforces India’s position as the fastest-growing major economy among emerging markets. As sustainability becomes paramount, the emphasis on eco-friendly and energy-efficient concrete solutions is crucial. World of Concrete India 2024 offers a significant platform for networking and business development, making it an indispensable event for staying abreast of the latest trends and innovations in the construction sector” he added.
This year, the expo will see participation from brands such as Reliance, Adani Cement, Asian Paints, Ammann, Ardex Endura, Thermax, Honda India, Zydex Industries, Mapei, MYK Arment, UltraTech and many more. Additionally, the event will be supported by prominent associations such as the Builders Association of India, the Indian chapter of the American Concrete Institute, RMCMA, and Drycotec – Dry Mortar Association. Industry Awards will also be presented, recognizing excellence within the sector.
