UPSC Notes

Construction Technology for Affordable Housing

PYQs

6

Articles

1

Momentum

17

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

This concept highlights the application of science and technology for socio-economic development, specifically in infrastructure and housing. UPSC values understanding how technological innovations can solve pressing societal problems and the barriers to their widespread adoption.

Innovative construction technologies are vital for addressing the housing deficit, particularly for economically weaker sections, by offering methods to reduce costs, accelerate construction timelines, and improve structural efficiency. These advancements are crucial for scaling up affordable housing projects.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Shear Wall Technology

Uses formworks (plastic, aluminium) filled with cement and embedded steel rods/mesh, allowing simultaneous casting of walls and roof.

Benefits

Significantly reduces construction costs (potentially within ₹5 lakh subsidy) and shortens construction time (15-30 days vs. months).

Challenges to Adoption

High initial investment for formworks, project-specific design, difficulty in modifications, and contractors demanding upfront payment.

Suitability

Economical for repetitive, mass-housing projects (e.g., 200+ repetitions or 500+ identical units) and in areas with land scarcity.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaPhysics & Materials Science

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
Telangana Housing Corporation Limited (TGHCL)Explores
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Multi-statement analysis

Prelims angle: Conceptual understanding

Quick revision

  • Shear wall technology reduces construction cost and time.
  • Involves formwork systems for repetitive concrete construction.
  • High initial investment and design rigidity are drawbacks.
  • Requires early structural and architectural coordination.
  • Potential for mass housing, but faces upfront payment issues.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

Physics & Materials Science

Dream homes, mounting debts in Telangana

14 Aug 2026 · Shear wall technology offers a cost-effective and rapid construction method for affordable housing, using formworks for simultaneous wall and roof casting. Despite benefits like reduced costs and time, its adoption faces hurdles such as high initial investment, design inflexibility, and upfront payment demands from contractors.

Read article

Related topics

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 6 linked questions on Construction Technology for Affordable Housing in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Construction Technology for Affordable Housing

Practice official previous year questions asked by UPSC related to this concept.

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