The challenge of providing adequate classroom infra has always been a tough one for India. Policymakers and educators alike haven’t entirely figured out the solution, YET. Here’s Modular Construction – a game changing solution. This has brought in a wave of efficiency, sustainability and cost effectiveness that traditional construction can never offer.
So, what exactly is modular construction? Simply put, it’s like Legos for grown-ups. These buildings are constructed from prefabricated modules, built in a controlled environment, away from the building site. The modules are then transported and assembled on-site, just like putting together puzzle pieces.
Modular classrooms are a scalable solution to the shortage of classroom infra. They can be custom-designed to meet the specific needs of educational institutions, whether it’s a small rural school or a large urban campus.
According to a 2023 report by the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE), over 25% of government schools in India still operate with less than four classrooms. In rural areas, this number is even higher, often due to the lack of funds or difficult terrain that makes traditional construction projects unfeasible.
Especially for areas with harsh climates or unreachable access, Modular classrooms come to the rescue. These structures are particularly beneficial in regions that are hard to access or have harsh climates. They provide a viable alternative to building traditional brick-and-mortar schools, which can be both time-consuming and labor intensive.
.According to data from the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), the cost of constructing a modular classroom can be 20-30% lower than that of a traditional classroom. At its cost, a modular classroom can be delivered within 6 to 8 weeks of order placement, while traditionally it would take at least 6 months. This is a perfectly viable option for disaster hit areas and growing neighborhoods.
Environmental Impact
30% percent of the total solid waste produced in India comes from construction. Traditional construction is a huge contributor to solid waste. With precise planning and the reuse of materials, modular construction minimizes waste effectively. Moreover, modular spaces are usually designed to be scalable, making them easy to relocate. All this only speaks volumes about the low environmental impact that modular construction has and why this is the future of construction – a future that has already arrived with MODULI..
Case Studies: Modular Classrooms in Action
India’s stride towards modular construction has already proved successful in multiple places. For example, in Assam, where flooding frequently disrupts school operations, modular classrooms have proven to be a lifesaver. The state government, in collaboration with local NGOs, has set up modular classrooms on stilts to protect them from floodwaters, ensuring that students can continue their education even during the monsoon season.
Similarly, in urban areas like Delhi and Mumbai, where real estate is expensive, modular classrooms have been instrumental in expanding existing schools without requiring to buy more land. These classrooms are often installed on the rooftops of existing buildings, making efficient use of vertical space and addressing the issue of overcrowded classrooms.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Although the benefits of modular classrooms are clear, there is still a need for greater awareness and acceptance of modular construction methods among policymakers and educators.
With increasing government investment in education, the adoption of modular classrooms is inevitable. The Union Budget for 2024 has allocated ₹1.12 lakh crore for education, a 10% increase from the previous year, signaling a strong commitment to improving school infrastructure. If a portion of these funds is directed towards modular construction, the impact could be significant.
Prefabricated modular construction is more than just a trend; it’s a paradigm shift. By offering speed, efficiency, and superb customization capacity, it’s transforming the way we build across a wide range of industries.
If this is something your business could benefit from, get in touch with us today and MODULI will surely help.