The widespread reverse migration of migrant labourers from metropolitan cities during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the need for affordable rental housing on a mass level. Besides, the steady levels of urbanisation also exasperate the demand for affordable housing. The same is being facilitated via governmental schemes and the adoption of contemporary construction technologies, among others.
Like every other sector, Indian real estate took a significant blow due to the nationwide lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, due to the mass exodus of migrant labourers, the plight of the labour force’s housing needs became apparent. Today, rural migrants are rapidly streaming into burgeoning developing cities, and if affordable rental homes are not developed, the number of urban slums will proliferate. Such lack of housing for the migrant population has highlighted the need for the Central Government and the various State governments to provide more incentives to real estate developers to build low-cost and affordable rental housing for the masses.
The staggering task of urban expansion requires long-range sustainable planning solutions for creating housing, open spaces, and adequate civic, social, and transport infrastructure. However, the traditional approach of the evolution of cities that urban population growth entails cannot be contained merely by the horizontal expansion of residential structures. Instead, the approach must make sufficient room to facilitate housing through more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable models.
The Central Government has taken various measures to meet the increased demand for affordable housing. It emphasises the need for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Public Sector Units (PSUs) to develop such accommodation. With schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Affordable Rental Housing Complex (a sub-scheme under PMAY), and the Deen Dayal Jan Awas Yojna (DDJAY), the affordability of residential units is on the rise.
With the introduction of efficient and innovative design solutions, the value of these affordable homes could be increased. In addition, the evolution of construction technology has reduced costs. It is speeding up the building process dramatically.
Therefore, the acceptance of newer construction technologies is also a key driver in accelerating the affordable housing supply. For example, through the use of certain technologies, a model project could be developed with dwelling units designed as per the approved proposal and built using recommended construction methods. Though a typical design will be followed to maintain cost efficiency, adequate measures could be kept in consideration to modify them as per local climate and context. Additionally, the structural details would be designed to meet the durability and safety requirements of applicable loads, including earthquakes, cyclones, and floods, according to the applicable Indian and/or international standards.
In conclusion, one of the most prominent questions raised in the construction industry today is how rapid urbanisation will shape the face of real estate development in India. The issue of prime concern today is to not lose out on an opportunity to create a better future for the masses. It is crucial that developers and architects carefully address the concept of high-rise structures while incorporating good construction practices that govern the upcoming development. Even though the pandemic has adversely impacted the housing industry, it has significantly changed how we perceive our residential spaces. The growing importance of homeownership and shift in housing requirements will undoubtedly lead to better days and a quicker pace of revival in the coming years.
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