Shahid Hussain, CMD, Lohaar Engineering and Constructions Pvt Ltd says PEB is extensively used in the construction of warehouses and opines a single window clearance system for PEB contractors is need of the hour.

What are some of the core areas in construction and infrastructure where PEB can be preferred?
PEB can play a role in modern construction especially areas like warehousing and godowns. Especially with the rise of e-commerce the needs for warehouses and godowns has shot up. Likewise during execution of huge infrastructure projects too it is necessary to have similar facilities. How can PEB for mass accommodation address the infrastructural needs in areas prone to rough weather? While making PEB structures you don’t have to face these problems related to rough weather as it is based on a very strong foundation. The problem arises when construction is taking place in rough weather areas. During construction process, you have to supply concrete, mixture, civil construction materials but in PEB, only erection process of bridges is required, so it can be directly transported to the site without any problems.

How do you see the availability of quality steel and accessories in India for building reliable PEB construction?
Most companies who produce PEB are ISO certified and follow its rules and regulations. The material used is also top notch and PM 350 material is used. It all depends on the erectability of the structure and what components you are using. We are also evolving with changing times and adapting to new techniques for our latest projects.

What are the hurdles which need to be addressed improve per capita steel consumption?
I want to convey to our government that it should focus on smaller industries since they too play a major role in revenue generation which ultimately contributes to the growth of Indian economy. The policies of govt need to improve and relaxations have to be given to the MSME sector.

There are many associations such as CII, IBBS, IIA, who have many clients but the main roadblock in implementing the project is the flawed policies and it affects the execution. The government on one hand, talks about there should be no bribery and we support that but also work has to be done and in a time bound manner.

How PEB makes structures seismic proof?
It is possible but one has to work very closely with the architects and engineers to ensure that all the process and specs desired to make the end structure seismic proof is followed to the tee. Moreover design of the PEB structure too matters. At Lohaar we are always looking for solutions to make PEB structures seismic proof. We have already ventured into the creation of LGFS (Light Guage Steel Framing) buildings to address this issue.

How is the warehousing sector scaling up the demand for PEBs?
PEB plays a vital role in the warehousing sector. It is one of chief catalyst for the growth. We need more warehouses in India. Likewise in the global markets too there is a lot of opportunity. There is much work to do in the Middle East and countries like Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Kenya, and Ethiopia for sugar plants, but there aren’t many facilities for PEB contractors to get clearances or any single window system for their projects. The government can play a constructive role in ensuring that the Indian PEB players get access to such global projects.

Shahid Hussain, CMD, Lohaar Engineering and Constructions Pvt Ltd