PWD Minister Singh reviews 3D printing-based building construction technology at IIT, Chennai

 

 

 

As per the vision of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, Public Works Department Minister Rakesh Singh visited Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), Chennai, to review 3D printing-based building construction technology. During the visit, the Minister closely observed future ready construction systems and held detailed discussions with technical experts. Singh said that 3D printing technology has the potential to significantly speed up construction while ensuring better quality and precision. He noted that for mega events such as Simhastha Kumbh Mela to be held in Ujjain in 2028, where rapid construction of infrastructure is required under time bound conditions, 3D printing based construction could prove to be highly effective.

 

Singh stated that the Public Works Department is making continuous efforts to adopt new technologies, innovations and best practices in the State. The study visit to IIT Madras was organised as a part of the initiative. Earlier, PWD delegation had also studied modern construction techniques and work systems in Gujarat, Telangana and Maharashtra. Singh himself had led the Gujarat study tour. Explaining the technology, the Minister said that 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing is different from conventional construction methods. In the process, a digital design of building is first prepared on a computer, after which special machines print concrete or other construction materials layer by layer to create the structure.

 

He added that while conventional construction often takes several months, many structures can be completed within days using 3D printing. Factors such as weather conditions, labour availability and shuttering requirements have limited impact on this technology. It can be especially useful for disaster-affected areas, emergency housing, schools and health infrastructure. During the visit, Singh also reviewed new road safety technologies and data-driven, hyperlocal intervention based work systems. Discussions were held on accident prevention, black spot analysis and data based decision making. IIT Madras road safety division head Professor Venkatesh Balasubramanian and Engineering Design Division Head Professor Jaikanthan, along with senior PWD officials were present on the occasion.