DESIGN STRATEGIES FOR CONSTRUCTION WORKERS' HOUSING

Abstract

Large scale construction projects in India lead to an exponential increase in the workforce demand, subsequently creating an interlude in the supply of housing for the construction workers, who often end up in dystopic and appalling conditions. This study aims to design strategies for migrant contractual workers, by studying on- site labour housing projects - that correspond to construction project dynamics, labour management and social wellbeing. Textual data was consolidated and analyzed from standards, contracts and tender documents; which was further validated in the field observations carried out for labour settlements in public and private projects (workforce of 100-1000 labourers) located in the states of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, India. Additionally, spatial assessment and social surveys further provided inputs for framing observations, which were used to propose relevant strategies. The labour settlements were found to be of an incremental nature, with constant modification and reinvention, through the practice of various cost - efficient indigenous interventions. There exists a disparity between previous housing schemes, studies and their onsite implementation; due to lack of finance and feasibility. The provision of necessary services and infrastructure was found key to the success of the project, as it reflects on the productivity and health of the workforce. Adaptability and flexibility of spaces is seen as positive drivers for a meaningful design approach, which tries to optimize infrastructure, housing demand and innovation. The study concludes with suggestion of quantitative and qualitative strategies that are to be considered by architects, contractors, developers and workmen while establishing their settlement at a particular project site.