Ashish Anupam – constructsteel Vice-Chair
Steel: A necessity for growing requirements of sustainable infrastructure
Steel has played a pivotal role in the building of structures, bridges, roads, and many other important infrastructure projects for decades. As our cities grow and develop, the future of construction is shifting towards – faster, safer, smarter, and sustainable practices.
Steel is essential for the construction industry because of its high strength, durability, and adaptability to different needs. From skyscrapers to transport networks, steel helps to make our infrastructure more stable and long-lasting. Growth in steel consumption between 2023 and 2040 from infrastructure comes from both developed and developing countries with large planned investments, energy transition and mega infra projects. The main factors influencing this change are growth in renewable energy sources, increasing transportation and utility needs. To fulfil the growing steel needs for infrastructure, we need to invest in improving steel production and processing technologies. By using innovative methods and following sustainable practices, we cannot only satisfy the current demand for steel but also ensure a more effective and environmentally friendly manufacturing process.
We can see the impact of growing needs of Infrastructure play out in India very clearly. India is in a strong position to continue its impressive economic performance and currently the fastest rising economy. The Government of India has embarked on an ambitious journey to revolutionise the country’s infrastructure landscape, aiming to bolster economic growth, enhance connectivity, and improve the quality of life for its citizens. From the development of highways, railways, and airports to the promotion of waterways and ropeway systems, these efforts are aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable development across the nation. India has achieved significant milestones in infrastructure development, including the inauguration of the world’s longest highway tunnel, the Atal Tunnel, the construction of the world’s highest railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge and embarked on transformative projects like the Zojila Tunnel, Asia’s longest tunnel, for all-weather connectivity in Ladakh.
Tata Steel continues to partner in these iconic nation-building projects of India, with more than 30 construction service centres spread all over the country providing solutions catered to various project requirement. Tata Steel’s Nest In solutions offers offsite prefabricated construction solutions for end to end needs of customers. Furthermore, collaboration between governments, industry stakeholders, and academic institutions is essential. constructsteel and Tata Steel are playing an important role with Indian stakeholders is this regard – whether it is to promote benefits of zero energy buildings or advocating benefits of inclusion of LCCA in bridges.
In conclusion, the growing steel requirements for infrastructure development present us with both challenges and opportunities. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, we can ensure a steady and reliable supply of steel for the construction of vital infrastructure projects that will benefit generations to come. Let us work together towards a future where our cities are built stronger, safer, smarter and more resilient with the help of steel.