The High Life

A deep look into the construction of high-rises and its nuances

- Jayashree Kini Mendes

Technology is an amazing game-changer. What seemed impossible a few decades ago has trans-formed into something routine. So is it with India’s rapidly changing skyline that has witnessed the emergence of high-rises. The successful construction of these structures can be largely credited to modern technologies, and also green that has evolved.

High rise buildings are becoming prominent these days due to scarcity of land, and increasing demand for business and residential space. There has also been technological advancement and innovations in construction methods which are being adopted. Rakesh Reddy, director, Aparna Constructions & Estates, says, “From an engineering perspective, as high-rise buildings get taller, their design becomes increasingly influenced by factors that are otherwise less significant for shorter buildings. The structural systems of high-rise buildings must carry vertical gravity loads, as well as lateral loads, such as those due to wind and earthquakes.”

Adding to the construction of high-rises, Sachin Bhandari, CEO, VTP Realty, says, “While constructing tall buildings, concrete caisson columns bearing on rock or building on exposed rock itself is used along with bearing piles and floating foundations. The lateral stiffness is a major consideration in the design. Another factor is creep and shrinkage due to climatic conditions of the location, and the cumulative vertical movements that could cause distress in the structure and induce forces into horizontal elements especially in the upper regions.”

High-rise buildings are typically over 15m in height, and are exposed to both static and dynamic loads. There are safety measures for the building and occupants as well.