How AI-powered design and construction can revolutionise Bangladesh’s construction industry

A prototype of an AI-powered robot builds a two-story structure in Austin, US. Using such technology can cut construction waste by 25%. Photo: Bloomberg

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the design and construction industry is a transformative force that has the potential to reshape global economies. In Bangladesh, where infrastructure development is a key driver of economic growth, AI-based design and construction, combined with Building Information Modeling (BIM), can ignite an economic revolution. 

AI technologies in the global construction industry are expected to grow exponentially, with a projected market value of $10.3 billion by 2026, up from $1.2 billion in 2020. AI-powered tools are automating repetitive tasks, improving resource management, and optimising project timelines. For example, McKinsey reported that AI adoption in construction could reduce costs by 20% and enhance project efficiency by 30%.

Countries like the USA and China are leading the charge, with AI applications in smart cities, predictive analytics for building maintenance, and autonomous construction equipment. China's AI-powered construction market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 35% from 2023 to 2030, driven by government initiatives to build "digital twin" cities.

AI applications also extend beyond cost savings. In the UK, 90% of major construction companies use AI-driven BIM for sustainable designs, reducing energy consumption by up to 40%. BIM's integration with AI has demonstrated a potential to cut construction waste by 25%, according to the World Economic Forum.

The construction industry contributes around 8% to Bangladesh's GDP, employing over 3.5 million people. However, inefficiencies, delays, and cost overruns continue to plague the sector. Traditional construction practices result in 30% material wastage and delayed project completion by an average of 50% of the original timeline.

AI can help resolve these challenges by streamlining workflows, predicting risks, and optimising resources. AI tools like OpenSpace, for instance, can use computer vision to track progress and identify delays, potentially saving 20-30% of time in Bangladesh's infrastructure projects. AI algorithms can also analyse historical data to predict structural risks, which is especially crucial for Bangladesh, given its vulnerability to natural disasters like earthquakes and floods.

BIM, already adopted in major urban development projects like Dhaka's Metro Rail, can be enhanced with AI to foster collaboration and precision. AI-powered BIM can generate 3D models, automate clash detection, and provide real-time updates. For instance, integrating BIM in government projects could reduce construction costs by 15%, translating into billions of savings annually.

AI-driven BIM plays a key role in the development of smart cities. In Dhaka, traffic congestion costs the economy approximately $4.4 billion annually. AI has the potential to optimise traffic flow and design more efficient road networks, as demonstrated by Singapore's AI-based smart city planning, which reduced traffic delays by 20%. This model could be replicated in Bangladesh to address its own traffic challenges.

AI can also significantly impact affordable housing projects by optimising designs and reducing material waste. India's adoption of AI and BIM in low-cost housing under the "Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana" saved 25% on project costs. Bangladesh's "Ashrayan Project" could similarly benefit, facilitating the creation of cost-effective housing for marginalised communities.

AI and BIM can contribute to the green building movement as well. Globally, AI-integrated BIM has reduced building energy consumption by 30% in projects like California's Salesforce Tower. In Bangladesh, where energy efficiency is critical, these technologies can help ensure compliance with green standards, ultimately reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

AI algorithms are also valuable for simulating natural disaster scenarios, assisting engineers in designing resilient structures. For instance, Japan has used AI to create earthquake-resistant buildings, reducing disaster-related fatalities by 70% in the past decade. Bangladesh, located in a seismically active region, could leverage AI to design structures that prevent catastrophic losses during natural disasters.

However, the adoption of AI and BIM in Bangladesh faces several challenges. One such obstacle is the skill gap, as less than 10% of Bangladeshi engineers are trained in AI and BIM technologies, according to BASIS. Additionally, the high initial costs associated with implementing these technologies may deter small construction firms. Moreover, the absence of a robust digital infrastructure policy hinders the public sector's ability to adopt AI effectively.

Despite these challenges, the potential benefits are immense. AI is projected to create 97 million new roles globally by 2025, including positions in design and construction. In Bangladesh, professionals skilled in AI-BIM integration could command salaries 50% higher than the average engineer. Additionally, Bangladesh's AI expertise could position it as a global hub for outsourcing design and construction services.

By adopting AI, Bangladesh could increase its GDP by 10-15% by 2035, similar to India's projected 12% GDP growth through AI. To unlock this potential, Bangladesh must establish AI-BIM training programs in collaboration with universities and international firms like Autodesk and Trimble. 

Public-private partnerships should be fostered to fund AI adoption, and policy reforms should include tax incentives for digital transformation. Pilot projects, such as AI-driven BIM for large-scale infrastructure like the Padma Bridge II or smart township development in Purbachal, should also be launched.

AI and BIM are not just tools; they are catalysts for economic transformation. Through strategic adoption, Bangladesh can tackle inefficiencies, enhance sustainability, and position itself as a leader in the global construction industry. The integration of these technologies will modernise the sector and elevate the nation's economic standing.

The time to act is now. By embracing AI and BIM, Bangladesh can ensure a prosperous, resilient, and technologically advanced future. 

S M Muhaiminul Islam is a researcher & member at Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB)

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.