ACE Update April 2015

MAHENG/2011/38968

Vol 5 Issue 3 • Pages 44 • April 1, 2015 • `100/-

A C E UPDATE ARCHITECTURE

CONSTRUCTION

ENGINEERING

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Green living A critical look at today’s sustainable architecture

An I-Tech Media Publication

News analysis on construction & infra

COVER STORY

Interview

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Elevator market in India sets to elevate Sebi Joseph, MD, Otis Elevator, explains how they’re planning to strengthen their position

Special Report

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Green Architecture

CONTENTS

A critical look at today’s sustainable architecture

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Green buildings to be the way of life Ar. Prem Nath talks about his responsibility to create liveable, sustainable development

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Green design isn’t catchphrase but a belief Ar. Ria Talati shares how she successfully implements the green design principles while looking at the future

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Green architecture and its socioeconomic impact Ar. Alankrita Soni shares what is green architecture and how it benefits people, nation and environment

Industry analysis

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A budget with long-term growth picture for India An analysis on how the Budget 2015 has affected the real estate as well as infrastructure sectors

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Going green with glass An detailed analysis on how glass has become an indispensable material in green design

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Painting green An market analysis on how going green has catch up the paint and coating industry

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Cement your business relationships further A report on how the use of concrete is steadily gaining pace as the most viable option to speed up construction

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Insulation and green building An analysis on why building insulation has become a key enabler in designing green

Project review

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Green, clean and innovative sanitary Why Navi Mumbai Municipal Corp. headquarter has been awarded the prestigious LEED Gold certification

Promotional Feature

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K-Lite inspires city beautification Tekla improves construction project workflows

News Update

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Inland waterways bill to be passed in current session of Parliament: Gadkari SHEL bags order worth `122.02 cr AAI initiates flight calibration at Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, West Bengal

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CASE Construction Celebrates 25 Years in India Volvo sells 4.7% stake in Eicher for ` 1,920 cr

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JCB launches its ‘Made-In-India’ gensets for Indian market

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Brick Eagle acquires TMC housing project IBM partners with Sheltrex to build smart homes Mahindra Lifespaces launches second phase of Happinest

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Dow Corning introduces sustainable building facades Dr. Fixit presents Waterproof World in Mumbai

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Projects

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Tenders

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Editorial

Green design: what and how?

A green building is underlined by superior indoor air quality, control over thermal comfort, and a high level of energy, resource conservation and efficiency. In order to achieve this, a building needs to be designed and executed keeping in mind that it does not disturb nature in any way.

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On this note, this time we bring to you a special issue on green architecture. Apart from the detail analysis on design methods, we have discussed on the socio-economic and environmental impacts of green architecture.

Environmental Architect Alankrita Soni described architecture as an indispensable ground for sustainable innovation and an interface among the environmental, economic and socio-cultural dimensions of sustainability in the built environment. Highlighting the most important characteristics of green architecture she said, “Green architecture considers the entire life cycle of the building and its components as well as its social, economic and the environmental impact.”

Architect Prem Nath adopts the conventional principles of environment-based design with cross ventilation and natural light while designing sustainable architecture. He asserts that his projects not only depict what is green in design but also speak of zero depletion, renewable energy, thermal comfort and low VOC materials.

In keeping with the increasing emphasis on green architecture, there is a shift in demand pattern for architectural and interiors products and solutions. Thus, critical analyses have been carried out on the products and technology development in this field.

Though there is a lot of talk about the usage of glass that cuts natural ventilation, solar control glass claims to play a key role in making a building green. Today single-glazed and double-glazed products are preferred for their superior thermal performance. Experts from Saint Gobain and AIS talked about the important glass products for green designs.

Water is a limited resource, and efficient management of water is a critical area to achieve green. With increased focus on ‘green’, today sanitary ware are being developed that can help in optimum use of energy, water and space. Experts from leading brands such as Duravit India, Kohler India and Roca expressed their views on the sanitary products and technology that are promoting green.

Hope you’ll enjoy reading this issue as always.

We are keen to hear your comments. Please write to us at editor@aceupdate.com

Printed and published by Subhajit Roy on behalf of I-Tech Media Pvt Ltd. and printed at Print, Process Offset Printers, B-23, Royal Industrial Estate, 5-B, Wadala, Mumbai-400031 and published from I-Tech Media Pvt Ltd. 1, Gayatri, Karumari Amman, Chheda Nagar, Chembur (West), Mumbai - 400089. Editor: Subhajit Roy All rights reserved. While all efforts are made to ensure that the information published is correct, ACE Update holds no responsibility for any unlikely errors that might occur. The information on products and services / technology on offer is being provided for the reference of readers. However, readers are cautioned to make inquiries and take their decisions on purchase or investment after consulting experts on the subject. ACE Update holds no responsibility for any decision taken by readers on the basis of information provided herein. Tel.: +91-22-32682214/15, +91-9821667357

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Infra Inland waterways bill to be passed in current session of Parliament: Gadkari Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said that the Centre has submitted a bill in the Parliament to convert 101 important rivers to inland waterways and hopefully it would be passed in the current session.

The 10-member Mohandas Pai Committee formed by the government for carrying out technology initiatives for roads, highways and ports sectors would submit its preliminary report within one month’s time, Mr Gadkari said at an Assocham event held in New Delhi.

“We have assigned Mohandas Pai the work to see how e-governance mechanism can lead to good governance in both our departments and what will be the e-solutions and e-recommendations for the same,” said Mr Gadkari.

“He is studying on NHAI, our new corporation for northeast, Ministry for Surface Transport, Shipping and Ports and to make our work more effective, the preliminary

SHEL bags order worth `122.02 cr Sunil Hitech Engineers Limited (SHEL), EPC company focused on infrastructure projects, has announced that the company bagged a order of ` 122.02 crores from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways - Government of India for Rehabilitation and Upgrading to 2 lanes/2 lane with Paved shoulders configuration and strengthening of Madhugiri –Chikkaballapura – Mulbagal Section Road in the State of Karnataka.

The order was bagged by company as the lead member in the M/s SHEL – Assignia (JV) and the work is expected to be executed in around 24 months.

This is the first major project that the company has received in the road EPC space and is in line with the company’s future philosophy to be an active player in the road sector on the EPC front. This order further showcases the steps the company is taking to step up business in other Infrastructure verticals such as building construction, roads, etc. apart from power related work on the way to become an Infrastructure conglomerate.

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report should be out in a month’s time and we will implement it as per that.”

He also said that the government is making efforts to increase draft depth to 20 meters by utilising newer technologies as it will help in promoting economic viability at ports.

The Minister also stressed on the need to design ships with greater tonnage that can be handled at ports with lower draft as well and promoting use of LNG based engines to bring down the pollution levels at India’s ports.

He also said that the private sector should take ports and shipping sector seriously. “There is much more economic viability, profit, internal rate of return and capital cost is much less in inland waterways and shipping and the industry should take this sector seriously,” he adds.

AAI initiates flight calibration at Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, West Bengal The Indian civil aviation industry witnessed an enthused Airport Authority of India (AAI) operated Beechcraft – 350 aircraft, onboard with engineers and technicians from the Communication, Navigation & Surveillance (CNS) department, headed at India’s first private Greenfield airport at Andal, near Durgapur, West Bengal on March 14. The flight by AAI marked the initiation of a three-day flight calibration schedule of the already installed navigational and meteorological equipment at the physically complete 650-acre Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, the centrepiece of the ` 10,000-crore Airport City by Bengal Aerotropolis Projects Ltd (BAPL), currently in the making.

Confident of clearing all post installation performance checks of the equipment and achieving a favourable report by AAI post calibrating the installed instruments, BAPL envisages that its Airport will attain the formal license by DGCA, and thereby commence full-fledged commercial operation at the earliest. The company on its part has applied for permission to operate Category 4C aircrafts from its airport.

With the calibration exercise being the last significant milestone to be achieved pre-operationalisation of the airport, Partha Ghosh, Managing Director, Bengal Aerotropolis Projects Ltd, commented, “At the juncture of this momentous development, we welcome the AAI engineers who have arrived to initiate the calibration at the Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport. Reaching this stage in the project required a monumental effort which included relocation of the extra high voltage transmission lines.

Equipments CASE Construction celebrates 25 years in India CASE Construction, a brand of CNH Industrial, kicked off its celebration of 25 years in India with its participation in ConMac 2015, one of the most important constructions equipment exhibitions in India organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in Guwahati.

ConMac 2015 was held in North East India, a region with tremendous potential for the construction equipment industry due to the investments in excess of ` 60,000 crores planned for infrastructure development projects.

The exhibition therefore provided CASE India with a perfect platform to start its Silver Jubilee celebrations and showcase its market leading product range, which includes Loader Backhoes, Vibratory Compactors, Motor Graders and Skid Steer Loaders.

On its stand at ConMac 2015 CASE India launched its new own brand Rockbreaker, displayed on the recently launched 851EX Loader Backhoe. The CASE 851EX

Volvo sells 4.7% stake in Eicher for ` 1,920 cr Commercial vehicle major Volvo Group sold around 4.7 per cent stake in Eicher Motors for over ` 1,920 crore.

AB Volvo has divested 12.7 lakh shares, representing approximately 4.7 per cent of Eicher Motors Limited’s equity capital, Eicher Motors Ltd said in a statement dated 4th March.

As a part of the transaction, in addition to acquiring 45.6 per cent of the shareholding of VECV, AB Volvo had also acquired 22.75 lakh shares of EML representing 8.4 per cent of equity capital of the company.

This divestment will have no bearing whatsoever on VE Commercial Vehicles Limited (VECV), which will continue to be governed as an equal partnership venture, the statement adds.

In May 2008 AB Volvo and Eicher Motors Limited (EML) had entered into a joint venture agreement to create VECV.

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runs the reliable and proven 96 horsepower S8000 engine developed by the company’s sister partner FPT Industrial. The engine delivers a powerful performance and fast response time, enabling operators to maximise productivity. This coupled with the exceptional fuel savings of up to 13 per cent resulting from the after cooler system, makes the S8000 Series a reference in the market as the most fuel efficient engine in the country.

JCB launches its ‘Made-In-India’ gensets for Indian market JCB raises the bar in innovation with the introduction of its whole new range of diesel generators in the range of 63-100 kVA. It will subsequently expand its range to over 100 kVa in the coming months followed by 15 Vipin Sondhi, MD & CEO, JCB India and Amit Gossain - 200 kVA during the next year, - Executive Vice President- Sales, Marketing and the company said adding that it Business Development at the JCB Genset launch has been exporting these diesel generators to over 30 countries across 5 continents from India since 2013.

Commenting on the occasion, Vipin Sondhi, MD and CEO, JCB India said, “We have been championing the theme of “Make in India” for a few years now by making global quality products in India. Our world-class range of generators which are highly fuel efficient, compact and reliable are also manufactured on the company philosophy of One Global Quality.”

The JCB ‘Made-In-India’ eco-friendly genset engines, besides being low on fuel consumption and maintenance are compliant with the new environmental norms CPCB II, the company said.

Amit Gossain, Executive Vice President – Sales, Marketing and Business Development, JCB India added, “JCB diesel generators provide 5-star advantages to customers. Along with their highly efficient engine and compact size, they are easy to maintain and offer quality service through our world class JCB dealer network.”

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Real Estate Brick Eagle acquires TMC housing project Brick Eagle has announced the acquisition of the iconic TMC (Tanaji Malusare City) project. The project famed for being the first Indian affordable housing project in the private sector was credited with kicking off affordable housing sector and was awarded the United Nations award for sustainable practices in 2009.

Due to a shareholder dispute and a court injunction, the project was delayed by 5 years leaving over 3,600 house buyers in the lurch. After Brick Eagle’s acquisition in September 2014, the company has moved ahead to complete the project with modern specifications under the design and master plan of Architect Hafeez Contractor.

The project is being developed by Sheltrex, which is an incubated developer of Brick Eagle Group. Delivery would start in April with the first 500 keys. Brick Eagle supports like-minded developers in affordable housing sector. In addition to Sheltrex, Brick Eagle has

IBM partners with Sheltrex to build smart homes IBM has announced a technology partnership with Sheltrex Developers to establish unified city operations to support a new smart housing development in the heart of Oragadam, the fastest growing suburb of Chennai. With most of the top automobile companies having set up operations in Oragadam, it is famously referred to as the Detroit of India.

Spread over 26.6 acres, Sheltrex’s Oragadam project, will buildsmart and cost effective homes targeted at people working in this industrial hub.

The project is strategically located at the State Highway 57 (SH-57), which is just off Grand Southern Trunk (GST) Road in close vicinity to the Automotive Corridor of Southern India, Oragadam and Maraimalai Nagar.

Commenting on this, Goutham Pulimi, CEO, Sheltrex Developers said, “The objective of the IBM partnership for Sheltrex is twofold, one to enrich the daily lives of the residents, and second, for better township management in the longterm.”

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also invested in Playtor in Pune, DBS in Ahmedabad and Olympeo in Mumbai.

Speaking on the occasion Rajesh Krishnan, Founder and CEO, Brick Eagle said, “There are 3,600 customers who have invested their lifelong savings to buy their home at TMC. They have been waiting since 2009. Our first priority is to deliver these units within 24 months.”

While Affordable Housing has always been seen as a pressing social need, Brick Eagle views this as a $100 billion market opportunity.

Mahindra Lifespaces launches second phase of Happinest Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited (MLDL), the real estate and infrastructure development arm of the USD 16.5 billion Mahindra Group, has announced the launch of the second phase of its affordable housing project HAPPINEST - in Boisar, a suburb of Mumbai, on the occasion of Gudhi Padwa. The second phase of the Happinest project, with unit prices starting from ` 11 lakhs onwards is targeted at the rising Indian middle class. This project is aligned with the Mahindra Group’s philosophy of enabling people to ‘Rise’ and driving positive change.

Sriram Mahadevan, Business Head, Happinest, said, “We have received an overwhelming response to our first phase, having sold over 300 flats since the launch in Diwali. Built on the three pillars of Trust, Better Living and Affordability, Happinest is focused on serving the large underserved home ownership market. The launch of the second phase signals our continued efforts to create thriving communities and enable a larger cross section of people to fulfil their dreams of owning a home in a safe, secure and healthy environment.”

Spread over 14 acres, Happinest Boisar offers 1 RK, 1 BHK, and 2 BHK apartments in the range of 351 sq. ft. to 762 sq. ft priced from ` 11 to 24 Lakhs. Centrally located with easy accessibility, the project is in close proximity to the railway station, bus stands, hospitals, schools and colleges.

Building Material Dow Corning introduces sustainable building facades

Dr. Fixit presents Waterproof World in Mumbai

Silicone-based innovative solutions provider Dow Corning has launched Transparent Silicone Structural Adhesive which provides next generation crystal clear bonding for point fixed facades, to help maximise thermal performance enhance design freedom of building facades.

Dr. Fixit, from the house of Pidilite Industries Ltd, announced the launch of Waterproof World in Mumbai. Dr. Fixit is known for its innovation and pioneering solutions for waterproofing problems.

Dr. Fixit is also committed to break common myths and demystify the problems associated with conventional waterproofing practices amongst common people.

The company has also introduced Dow Corning PanelFix System – a cost-effective, easy-to-use alternative to mechanical fixation of facade panels and rainscreens.

In a time when energy performance of buildings needs to be addressed by designers, clients and contractors, the challenge is to attain efficiency in performance, maintain highest quality and timely execution of projects. Silicon-based materials from Dow Corning are versatile and designed into systems that contribute to overall building performance such as structural glazing, insulating glazing, insulation and weatherproofing.

“Dow Corning has harnessed the inherent, unmatched properties of silicone to create modern solutions which enable improved aesthetics and building functionality, to help boost energy efficiency, increase access to natural light for building occupants and enlarge dwelling space,” the company claims.

Furthering this initiative, Dr. Fixit’s Waterproof World, first-of-its-kind retail concept, will aim at educating customer through touch and feel. It will offer an experience zone where-in a customer can get information regarding importance of waterproofing, concept of waterproof envelope, easy steps to waterproof and areas of application like – external and internal walls, terrace and bathrooms. This will also provide a platform to Engineers, Structural consultants and Architects to showcase waterproofing solutions to their clients.

Waterproof World will be exhibited at 7 key outlets in Mumbai. It will be further launched in other centres in the country.

Elevator II Interview

Elevator market in India sets to elevate “Otis has been increasingly focusing on offering complete and reliable solutions looking at the rapid increase in diversity and growth in Indian realty market,” says Sebi Joseph, Managing Director, Otis Elevator Company (India) Ltd. Otis is one of the leading manufacturers and service providers when it comes to elevators and escalators. The company has recently expanded its factory in Bengaluru and added a new test tower which stands tall at a height of 51.2 meters and can test six elevators at a time. It has also launched the new “Gen2 Infinity” product line. In a conversation with ACE Update, Sebi Joseph explains how these expansions will help strengthen their position in the market.

Demand for elevator India will be having 68 cities with populations of about 1 million by 2030 according to McKinsey report. Cities in India are estimated to be home to around 340 million people, or 30 per cent of the population. By 2030, it is expected that cities will house about 590 million people or 40 per cent of the population. As the need for housing grows with increase urbanisation, the markets will continue to grow. Upcoming cities and development in economy hold a lot of potential for infrastructure growth and therefore is a major driver for elevator segment in India.

Currently, the Indian elevator and escalator industry is estimated to be around 42,000 units and expected to grow about 75,000 units in the next couple of years. Today, China’s industry stands at 400,000 units; therefore, the runway for growth of the Indian segment is long. India’s elevator market is the second largest after China.

Gen2 Infinity Recently, Otis has introduced the Gen2 Infinity. This is a high speed (1.75 metres

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per second) elevator that is built on Otis’ flagship technology platform “Gen2”. A passenger elevator, the Gen2 Infinity will cater to mid-rise residential buildings, which are fast becoming a common feature across Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities in the country.

Sectors to focus India has been witnessing tremendous growth in residential complexes. The boost in Indian construction sector and urbanisation has created a huge demand for elevators. Otis has been increasingly focusing on offering complete and reliable solutions looking at the rapid increase in diversity and growth in Indian realty market. Although 75 per cent of the demand is from the residential projects, Otis India also partners on projects from the infrastructure and commercial sectors.

Otis India has a project team which caters exclusively to the infrastructure segment.

The team has specialised projects skills and works closely with customer specifications and requirements. The team offers end-toend project management for metro, railways and airport projects.

The aim is to provide high-quality installation and ensure excellent maintenance throughout the lifespan of the project. In 2013, Otis won the largest elevators and escalators contract for Hyderabad Metro Rail project to supply and install 670 elevators and escalators for the project. During the same year, Otis India was awarded the escalator contract for the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to supply and install 222 escalators (520NPE-L model) for Phase III of the Delhi Metro project.

Expectations A vertical development in the residential and commercial building sector has been gathering momentum across several cities in India. While factors such as rapid urbanisation, access to liveable space and escalating land costs are the key drivers of the high-rise trend, a key enabling factor is the revision and relaxation of the building norms by some of the state governments. The country has also moved up the value chain in terms of greater sophistication in the elevator features, such as energy-efficient elevators, advanced safety mechanisms and improved aesthetics. There is a good opportunity for green elevators, and this is evident from the growing real estate space in green category.

The industry has also expanded, with the entrance of many new offerings. Faster speed elevators are now a norm and technologies supporting the environment are now gaining relevance. The industry has also given birth to a new breed of professionals — the vertical transportation consultant who often liaise between developers and manufacturers, ensuring the best solution and fulfilling the best interests of the customers.

Booming real estate sector, housing shortage, increase in population and foreign direct investment in construction industry are some of the reasons which boost elevator demand. This combined with government investment will translate into growth for elevator industry in India. n

union budget II Special Report

Union Budget 2015 is a “fairly good budget” focused on massive infrastructure development and strengthening of country’s economy

A budget with long-term growth picture for India The Union Budget of 2015-16 was the first full budget presented by the Modi Government, and India Inc. has sky high expectations of reform. The budget, of course, had its own share of drawbacks, but it did not disappoint. Experts feel, the budget gave due importance to all sections of the economy and tried to enhance the ease-of-doing business while keeping its focus on infrastructure development.

The budget provided a perfect balance on policy framework aims in supporting everyone — the common man to the corporate. Let’s discover how the industry has reacted on this year’s budget.

It is a good budget for the economy but lukewarm for the housing sector in the immediate terms. Given that housing growth has a high correlation with economic growth, housing sector will definitely benefit in the medium- to long-term.

Venkatesh Gopalkrishnan, President and CIO, Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate, seems very happy about the budget which focused on propelling investments, increasing liquidity and catalysing growth. He explains, “Clarity has been provided for the direction of the next 2 to 3 years in terms of fiscal deficit and growth. Focus of ease of doing business.

Rationalising the AIF norms and the permanent establishment norms is proof of the same.”

Real estate “The budget has been bittersweet for the real estate sector,” argues Dr Naresh Bharde, Chairman and MD, Excellence Group.

“Although the sector will see a 0.5 per cent rise in property rates and hike in service tax, no tax on property ownership (except the super luxury segment) brings some relief.

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The announcement of the creation 6 crore homes in alignment with the ‘housing for all’ vision will give impetus to projects in the affordable housing sector.”

Interestingly, the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI), the apex body for private real estate developers in India, feels that the sector has not got the desired position of importance in the budget for the fiscal year 2015-16. The real estate sector was expecting that the Modi Government, like last time, would extend the support to this vital sector and iron-out the difficulties faced by the real estate sector to ensure a positive contribution to the development of the country, by providing jobs and achieving the mission “Housing for all by 2022”.

C Shekar Reddy, National President, CREDAI, says, “The Budget quite disappointing for the real estate sector as budget has not given any impetus to the sector. The sector provides much needed employment, which is the need of the

Special Report II union budget hour, yet, the only provisions in the budget for the real estate sector is the pass through tax for investments in the Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and rationalisation of the capital gains for the sponsors exiting at the time of listing of the units of REITs and InvITs. The Government has allocated ` 22,407 crore in the budget for housing and urban development.

The government envisages a plan to construct 2-crore houses in rural India, 4-crore houses in the urban areas towards achieving housing for all by 2022. It is not clear how these targets will be achieved.”

Infrastructure The pragmatic approach taken by the Finance Minister Arun Jaitley can also provide a boost to infrastructure sector. Emphasise on public sector units to step up investments in infrastructure is very well received. “An additional ` 70,000 crore has been earmarked for infrastructure,” explains Hemant Kanoria, CMD, Srei Infrastructure Finance Ltd. “Apart from increased outlays for the rail and road sectors, he [Arun Jaitley] also intends to mobilise resources for rail, road and irrigation sectors through tax-free bonds.”

Mr Kanoria goes gaga over our finance minister. “The mention of how the sovereign must bear part of the PPP project risks reflects his seriousness on how keen he is to make PPP a success story for India’s infrastructure sector,” he remarks. “In addition, Mr Jaitley has announced the setting up a National Investment and Infrastructure Fund with an annual outlay of ` 20,000 crore from the centre which augurs well for the financing of infrastructure given the fact that banks now have limited headroom to increase exposure in infrastructure.”

The budget has a strong rural focus too. “The finance minister has looked into the needs of the rural sector which supports almost twothirds of India’s population and has stepped up investments in rural infrastructure like roads, housing, power supply, hygiene, water supply and cold storages which augur well for a holistic development of rural India,” says Mr Kanoria.

Shashi Kiran Shetty, Executive Chairman, Allcargo Logistic, is also happy for this year’s budget whose proposed reform in infrastructure is one of its key highlight. He believes that a higher allocation of ` 70,000 crore in the infrastructure space over last fiscal will provide further wings to the economy to achieve over 8 per cent growth in the coming years.

Experts

Sunil Mathur Siemens Ltd.

Sunil Mathur, MD and CEO, Siemens Ltd., has welcomed the Budget 2015 with open arms.

He says, “It is consistent with the stated objectives of the government, reinforcing its commitment to realisation of infrastructure projects. With the budget, the government seems inclined to follow its bold path of building infrastructure and improve ease of doing business. Its intention to increase public investments while decreasing corporate taxation over a period of time are also steps in the right direction, and we are sure these steps will further improve the confidence of investors and industry alike.”

Hemant Kanoria Srei Infrastructure Finance Ltd.

C Shekar Reddy CREDAI

Dr. Naresh Bharde Excellence Group

Tushar Mehendale ElectroMech

Even Giles Everitt, Managing Director, CHRYSO India, feels that this budget is encouraging, focused and growth oriented.

“The strong focus on infrastructural development through initiatives like hike in investment in infrastructure, allocation of ` 25, 000 crore for rural infrastructure and building 20 million houses in urban India to realise the dream of a roof for each family in India by 2022, are indicators to a positive growth phase. The government is also looking closely to enhance road and rail services and boost the infrastructure sector.

This will be instrumental to drive the overall growth of the country.”

Giles Everitt CHRYSO India

Shashi Kiran Shetty Allcargo Logistic

He further adds, “Focused disinvestment in loss making PSUs coupled with a contemporary bankruptcy code will definitely aide in cleaning the mess and introducing overall efficiencies in the industry. This will have a long term impact of ensuring the ‘survival of the fittest’ and breed excellence that is much required if India has to emerge as a preferred global manufacturing hot spot.”

Manufacturing Tushar Mehendale, Managing Director, ElectroMech Material Handling Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd. is very excited about the budget and feels that it is a good budget for the economy. “It is heartening to see that the GST rollout date has been committed as April 2016,” he remarks. “This will definitely give a massive fillip to the manufacturing and logistics industry as effective economies of scale can be achieved and processes can be simplified.”

Mr Shetty also feels that this budget will add value to the PM Modi’s “Make In India” mission which showcases strong focus on making India a manufacturing hub of the world.

Overall, this is a positive budget focused on strengthening of country’s economy in order to make India an economic super power.

We are eagerly waiting for action on these proposals. n

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Green Architecture II Cover story

Green living A critical look at today’s sustainable architecture

Green design creates new ways to live and interact with the world, putting thoughtfulness into actions. Green design not only saves energy but also adds luxury. It is far beyond being sustainable. Green design considers the entire life cycle of the building and its components; as well as its social, economic and the environmental impact.

Important characteristics of green architecture Green architecture is not only sustainable but innovative too. The boundaries of architecture need to be pushed with the new consciousness and awareness. “Sustainable architecture, which is a preferred phrase, will create new ways to live and interact with the world as this awareness grows,” says Ar. Ria Talati, Talati and Panthaky Associated Pvt. Ltd. According to Ar. Alankrita Soni, “Green architecture is an approach to architectural

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IIT Building, Chennai (Image courtesy: Architect Hafeez Contractor)

design that promotes energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, and resource conservation. Green architecture also considers environmental impacts and waste minimisation, creates healthy and comfortable spaces, reduces operation and maintenance costs, and addresses urban issues such as historical preservation, access to public transportation and amenities, community infrastructure systems, social inclusion and safety aspects.”

Achieving sustainability in architecture The main objective of sustainable design is to reduce depletion of critical resources like energy, waste and raw material. Most important, green design is not just a catchphrase but a belief and an outlook. “Sustainability in architecture can only be achieved once the mindset of the developers and architects changes and also with support and incentives from the government,” explains Ar. Talati. “One

Cover story II Green Architecture is not possible without the other. Once this is achieved to be truly sustainable, the project has to be looked at as a whole from inception to time after it has been occupied.”

For Architect Prem Nath, Prem Nath & Assoc., sustainability is everything that we need for our survival and well being, either directly or indirectly. On our natural environment, sustainability is important to make sure that we have and will continue to have the natural resources to sustain human health and environment.

An architect owns the responsibility to create livable, sustainable development, and it is not just important for a development to be sustainable, but it should also be green.

Architecture that believes in using the power of natural forces like sun, wind, earth and water to create healthy, comfortable habitat for the people is truly sustainable.

Today, the ecological crisis and dwindling resources present an urgent need to work out a responsible approach to create, construct

Building Materials

Indoor Air Quality

Renewable energy

Day lighting

Efficient water management

and maintain buildings and infrastructure, while minimising negative impact on the environment. Sustainable architecture design plays an important role in addressing these issues.

“Architecture is an indispensable ground for sustainable innovation and an interface among the environmental, economic and socio-cultural dimensions of sustainability in the built environment,” remarks Ar. Soni.

“Sustainability in architecture provides a

kind of balance between built and un-built environment by blurring lines between indoor and outdoor.”

buildings. There are many controversies on LEED certification, which is criticised for poor model of energy efficiency in India. While talking about the acceptance of LEED in India, Ar. Talati says, “LEED started as a system by people who wanted to establish green building as a viable promising market. They came up with a business-savvy strategy where buildings could be environmentally conscientious and also increase efficiency and decrease cost. It initially made a lot of businesses clamour for its long-term cost-saving and PR potential.”

Sustainable architecture involves considering the entire life cycle of buildings, taking environmental quality, functional quality and future values into account.

Green roofs and India Green roofs are a relatively new developing movement in architecture in India. Green roofs don’t just mean installing a rooftop garden.

Green roofs are the effective strategy for beautifying the building and built environment.

Even Prof. Anil Laul, Anangpur Building Centre and ASHRA, shares his concern about LEED certification. He explains, “Green rating systems have been created by group of people who don’t understand green. This business is meant only to make up for consultancy. There is panic in the air and the prices of carbon credits have already taken a severe beating, the warning bells have begun to ring. There are many who raise doubts.”

While talking about the origin of green roofs, Ar. Soni describes, “Origin of greening roof surfaces stretch back into the distant past.

Some experts believe that the custom of ‘planting hanging gardens on arches or roofs’ evolved as early as 900 BC. The most famous example of green roof and vertical landscaping was created in the 600 BC by Assyrian king Nebuchadnezzar — the famous hanging gardens installed for over parts of the palace in Babylon. The gardens were considered as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Many well-known Byzantine and Indian miniature paintings also depict lush roof gardens and patios giving us a rough idea of how widespread the concept of greening the roof surfaces was in the past.”

He continues, “With the recent cold waves, the extended winters and increasing blizzards instead of the onset of spring, the battle cry is one of climate change. Not to be caught in a self-contradictory mode, the gurus of green have attributed these near freezing conditions once again, to global warming. The business of selling these alarmist concepts has seen exponential growth in the recent past, and with each successive conclave that sets out to mitigate these challenges, our problems only seem to be spiraling.”

Green roofs replace a hard infrastructure with one that’s not only more efficient but also beautiful and useful. It is expected that green roofs will find their place on large scale in future, and the green roofing industry is likely to expand in the upcoming years in India.

LEED provides very little room to recognise design that goes beyond the scope of its categories. It works well for those looking to check boxes as well as for those genuinely concerned about the environment. Even though the accreditation can be seen as a status symbol, it does also encourage people to make environmentally conscious decisions to get the certification.

According to Ar. Nath, “Green roofs are the effective strategy for beautifying the building and built environment. It has lots of benefits like absorbing rainwater, providing insulation, creating a habitat for wildlife, increasing benevolence and decreasing stress of the people around the roof by providing a more aesthetically pleasing landscape and helping lower urban air temperatures and mitigate the heat-island effect.

As an environmental architect, Ar. Soni believes it is a must to acknowledge that all these rating systems have been really successful in setting targets for raising awareness about sustainable architecture as well as raising the standards of building design and construction. However, Ar. Soni seems hopeful about the future, and he believes that all these rating systems, including LEED, are in their adolescent stage and improving day by day. n

Controversies on LEED certification Internationally, voluntary building rating systems like LEED have been instrumental in raising awareness, popularising green design, and improving energy and water efficiency in

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Green Architecture II Interview

Green buildings to be the way of life Green buildings are more than just sustainable. They not only save energy but also add luxury. The future buildings would be designed efficiently, taking advantage of natural light and ventilation.

In a conversation with ACE Update, Ar. Prem Nath talks about his responsibility to create liveable, sustainable development.

Important characteristics of green architecture Green is in vogue — every architect is speaking of a LEED-rated project. Every developer is trying to get ahead in the race of providing green homes and healthy living with certification and becoming a show-off and sales gimmick.

“Sustainability is everything that we need for our survival and well being, either directly or indirectly,” says Architect Prem Nath, Prem Nath & Associates Achieving sustainability in architecture There is no need to achieve sustainability in architecture. This is not something new which architects are doing. This is in their routine. For Ar. Nath, sustainability is everything that we need for our survival and well being, either directly or indirectly. On our natural environment, sustainability is important to make sure that we have and will continue to have the natural resources to sustain human health and environment.

changed the climate pattern and is damaging it. Construction activity, pollution and industrial developments, highly automated construction, energy guzzling buildings, controlled environment, overcrowded cities and growing traffic are leading us to global warming which is clearly a danger signal not only for us but for our future generation also.

Green buildings will be the way of life.

Perhaps it will be known as green living — all buildings would be designed efficiently, taking advantage of natural light and ventilation, which was already part of our ancient culture.

Today we are talking about it and more worried about it because it is today’s necessity. Centuries ago, our ancient innovators paid more attention to sustainable features like stepwells which created low-tech “evaporative cooling” of surrounding area, courtyards for internal cross ventilations, and nets which not only gave the decorative effect but helped reduce the heat. Traditionally, we have always gone for eco-friendly structures and countless examples of sustainable composition in our heritage treasure.

As an architect, Ar. Nath owns the responsibility to create liveable, sustainable development. He has been taking lead and put his step forward and conceived various projects such as a green residential township in Punjab, which was added with a lot of value addition in terms of its ecofriendly features and awarded gold grading by the Environmental Ministry, rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment plant, solar water heaters, insulated walls and ceiling, a LEED-rated school in Gujarat, a green SEZIT park, sustainable commercial tower and many more.

It is era of “smart homes” having bio-metric gadgets and sensors that save energy and simultaneously add luxury.

While mimicking the western world, all the above traits were somehow ignored or forgotten. Vast industrialisation has already

Ar. Nath has been practicing green and sustainable architecture as a routine. He adopts the old principles of environmentbased design with cross ventilation and natural light, which is tried and tested method of green design. His projects not only depict what is green in design but also speak of zero depletion, renewable energy, thermal comfort and low VOC materials.

Today people boast of creating gold-rated building, while Ar. Nath has already created a “gold graded township” with multiple structures and infrastructure, and he created ahead of others.

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Now it is the time where we need to go back to our basics and learn from it.

It’s not just important for a development to be sustainable, but it should also be green.

Interview II Green Architecture The development must be able to live the fourth dimension, i.e. test of time.

Green roofs and India Green roofs are the effective strategy for beautifying the building and built environment. It has lots of benefits like absorbing rainwater, providing insulation, creating a habitat for wildlife, increasing benevolence and decreasing stress of the people around the roof by providing a more aesthetically pleasing landscape and helping lower urban air temperatures and mitigate the heat-island effect.

Green roofs replace a hard infrastructure with one that’s not only more efficient but also beautiful and useful. As environmental awareness is increasing worldwide, global warming is becoming major concern. India is also playing a responsible role by using eco-friendly material.

Over a period of time, it is observed that roofing materials and their supporting elements are being considered for lightweight, recyclable and allowing use of natural light source as much as possible.

Green materials • Fly ash bricks for masonry and vermiculite plaster for internal plaster • Ceramic reflective tiles cladding to external surface & glazed tiles on terrace tops • Low VOC paints & sealants • Natural stones viz. pebbles, marble, granite, etc.

• Large Landscaped spaces, including wide courtyards and central green zone between blocks • Rain water harvesting & STPs • Solar panels of around 7.5% (60 KW) of the total electricity consumption

Hmel township near Bathinda

Green materials • Cellular light weight concrete (CLC) • PPC cement • Fly ash bricks • Insulation used for roof & walls with max. U-factor or min. insulation R-values • Double glazing for window to reflect heat • Construction waste in roads and floors • MDF board in place of wood doors • MS shuttering and poles in construction • Low capacity (3-6 litres) flushes in toilets • Nature friendly paints

Therefore, we can expect that green roofs will find their place on large scale in future, and the green roofing industry is likely to expand in the upcoming years in India.

The current exploration of sustainable building designs in modern Indian architecture affirms that the future is likely to be dependent on high-efficiency systems and green design.

LEED - the most favoured rating system Ar. Nath has delivered many projects which got gold and platinum ratings by LEED. The idea of green rating of buildings has taken roots in India. This is in-line with the global trend in which the rating tools set benchmarks for green measures for constructing and using buildings to make them sustainable and to reduce their negative impacts on environment.

points for water conservation in comparison to GRIHA. Also, building commissioning is a mandatory requirement in LEED, but this is not a common practice in India and usually considered an unnecessary expense. These are few issues that one might find frustrating when working with LEED in India.

Both GRIHA and LEED India are operating at the national level. These ratings have a checklist of criteria and points that are assigned to these criteria, based on their relative importance.

GRIHA on the other hand is made in India for India and thus has many criteria that make total sense in the Indian context.

Compliance criteria for worker safety and well being are one such example. India is a tropical region, and we can take advantages of shading devices, cross ventilations and water conservation through which we can save 95 per cent of energy.

LEED is well established and internationally renowned. It is also the most favoured rating system among the private sector. On the other hand, critics call it “too American” as the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) has not allowed it to be indigenised enough for it to work well in the local context. For example, water is a critical resource in India but LEED offers far fewer

The green certification depends on the how much energy one saves through the technique, controversies are just nothing to do with these criteria.

Cygnus World School, Vadodara

Green designs by PNA Prem Nath & Associates is a “complete design organisation” having professional practice in architecture and interior designing, including project management consultancy and MEP services. Its long list of green designs includes LEED Platinum rated school in Gujarat, LEED Gold rated HMEL township in Bhatinda, a micro-township by Ajmera Developers, and Bhakti Park in Wadala. n

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Green Architecture II Interview

“We, at TPA, are committed to the integration of environmental sustainability in our designs,” says Architect Ria Talati, Talati and Panthaky Associated Pvt. Ltd. Sustainable architecture, which creates new ways to live and interact with the world, means putting thoughtfulness into actions. In a conversation with ACE Update, Ar. Ria Talati shares how she successfully implements the green design principles while looking at the future.

Important characteristics of green architecture Green architecture is not only sustainable but innovative too. The boundaries of architecture need to be pushed with the new consciousness and awareness we now have about the impact we make on our environment. Sustainable architecture, which is a preferred phrase, will create new ways to live and interact with the world as this awareness grows. It needs to be a mindset.

This future of architecture needs to be a holistic solution, creating minimum impact while leaving the smallest footprint possible on our world both socially and environmentally. This needs to start from the beginning with building and construction methods (to consider both the environment and interests/safety of the labour) to appropriate material selections that have limited carbon footprints and are locally appropriate. A building is a living breathing

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Nishika Terraces,Worli, Mumbai

Green design isn’t catchphrase but a belief entity, and reducing its consumption imprint of resources like water, electricity and energy through its entire life cycle is the ultimate goal.

Achieving sustainability in architecture Sustainability in architecture can only be achieved once the mindset of the developers and architects changes and also with support and incentives from the government. One is not possible without the other. Once this is achieved to be truly sustainable, the project has to be looked at as a whole from inception to time after it has been occupied.

Green design is not just a catchphrase, but a belief and an outlook. As an architect, implementing the principles of green design or sustainable design means putting thoughtfulness into actions, conscientiously considering the built environment and reversing the havoc we have inflicted on our resources while looking to the future.

Sustainability can only be achieved by commitment and conviction on all fronts and by making sure the entire life cycle of a building is thought through.

Green roofs and India Green roofs are a relatively newly developing movement in architecture in India. It makes

a lot of sense (both environmentally and commercially) to create green roofs in India, especially in urban areas like Mumbai where open space is at a premium. In Mumbai it is 1.1 square metres a person, less than even Mexico City and Tokyo.

It can also help manage storm water and moderate the heat intensity we suffer due to our environment.

India has opened up considerably in the fields of design, architecture and construction in the last few years with the immense international exposure and interest that has befallen the country. The possibilities are now limitless and this new exposure can now be used to its maximum with a little bit of imagination and innovation, and many architects are adopting green roofs and sustainable design as a way to make buildings more efficient and ecological as well as improve the quality of our urban experience.

As far as green roofs go, one cannot be considered “green” by solely installing a rooftop garden. For example, if it has materials air lifted from China and poorly insulated windows, its poor use of resources would suggest it’s really not that “green” at all.

Interview II Green Architecture LEED provides little room There has been a lot of concern about stated energy use versus actually energy with LEED certifications. But there is no way to accurately predict a building’s energy use if it hasn’t been built — that’s why LEED relies on energy models. If an owner changes the hours of the building operation, the energy use goes up. It is very difficult to be accurate.

LEED started as a system by people who wanted to establish green building as a viable promising market. So they came up with a business-savvy strategy where buildings could be environmentally conscientious and also increase efficiency and decrease cost. It initially made a lot of businesses clamour for its long-term costsaving and PR potential.

But LEED provides very little room to recognise design that goes beyond the scope of its categories. It works well for those looking to check boxes as well as for those genuinely concerned about the environment. Even though the accreditation

can be seen as a status symbol, it does also encourage people to make environmentally conscious decisions to get the certification.

As part of a huge bureaucratic structure that takes years to update, LEED cannot help but be perennially stuck in the past. Hopefully, it will improve its bureaucratic complexity and cost and encourage a more nuanced understanding of context, and – critically – allow more room for innovation that will lead us into the future.

Green designs and Talati and Panthaky Associated Green building is the undeniable future in every urban area — not only in this country but all over the world. Architects should be sensitive to not only the latest trends in sustainable design such as solar panels or green roofing but also need to be acutely aware of our unique Indian climate, lifestyle and the local materials. Context is very important. For decades, TPA has been pulling in its fenestration to provide flowerbeds. This is not only for the beauty of the building but also to practically reduce

Nishika Terraces,Worli, Mumbai

the suns intensity and therefore keeping the interiors cooler and consequently reducing the air-conditioning requirements. Its project Palais Royale is on track to being the first LEED Platinum certified residential building in the world, and TPA is committed to the integration of environmental sustainability in its designs. n

Green Architecture II Interview

Green architecture and its socio-economic impact “Sustainability in architecture provides a kind of balance between built and un-built environment by blurring lines between indoor and outdoor,” says Environmental Architect Alankrita Soni Architecture is an indispensable ground for sustainable innovation and an interface among the environmental, economic and socio-cultural dimensions of sustainability in the built environment. In an interview with ACE Update, Ar. Alankrita Soni shares what is green architecture and how it benefits people, nation and environment.

Characteristics of green architecture Green architecture is an approach to architectural design that promotes energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, and resource conservation. Green architecture also considers environmental impacts and waste minimisation, creates healthy and comfortable spaces, reduces operation and maintenance costs, and addresses urban issues such as historical preservation, access to public transportation and amenities, community infrastructure systems, social inclusion and safety aspects. Green architecture considers the entire life cycle of the building and its components; as well as its social, economic and the environmental impact. Most important characteristics of green architecture are: • Climate responsive building design • Passive solar design • Energy and water efficiency • Energy-efficient lighting and appliances • Minimal harm to the natural habitat • Use of alternate power sources • Efficient use of space • Flexibility and adaptability • Healthier indoor spaces • Natural daylight and ventilation • Water efficient landscape design • Use of local, regional materials and

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technologies • Reducing-reusing-recycling materials.

Achieving sustainability in architecture Architecture is an indispensable ground for sustainable innovation and an interface among the environmental, economic and socio-cultural dimensions of sustainability in the built environment. Sustainability in architecture provides a kind of balance between built and un-built environment by blurring lines between indoor and outdoor.

For architecture to be truly sustainable, it is very important that architects and designers understand new global and environmental challenges ahead of them and design buildings which address those challenges with minimum mechanical intervention and reduced impact on the environment.

Architecture that believes in using the power of natural forces like sun, wind, earth and water to create healthy, comfortable habitat for the people is truly sustainable.

Today, the ecological crisis and dwindling resources present an urgent need to work out a responsible approach to create, construct and maintain buildings and infrastructure, while minimising negative impact on the environment.

Sustainable architecture design plays an important role in addressing these issues.

The main objective of sustainable design is to reduce depletion of critical resources like energy, waste and raw material. Sustainable design also prevents environmental degradation and create livable, comfortable, safe and productive environment.

Sustainable design is an opportunity to use resources efficiently while creating healthier

buildings. It provides cost savings through improved human health and productivity, lower cost building operations, and resource efficiency and it moves us closer to a sustainable future. The idea of sustainability is to ensure that our actions and decisions today do not inhibit the opportunities of future generations. Sustainable architecture involves considering the entire life cycle of buildings, taking environmental quality, functional quality and future values into account.

Green roofs and India Green roof replaces traditional roofing with a living system of soil, compost and plants, creating natural green skin atop of a building. Green roofs have become a very important component of sustainable urban fabric. Nowadays green roofs and rooftop gardens can be seen as a part of urban fabric in most cities, benefiting the urban environment and its inhabitants. Green roofs have yet to catch up in a big way in India.

Real benefits of green roof systems are still unexploited to its maximum potential, especially in warmer climates like India.

Green roofs consist of following layers: • Mother slab-concrete • Layer of waterproofing • Root barrier • Layer of drainage • Geo-textile filter • Lightweight and water retaining growing medium - soil • Plantation (grass, sedums, herbs etc.).

Benefits of green roofs are: • A well-designed green roof can provide

Interview II Green Architecture

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greater energy savings compared to a cool roof or even an insulated roof due to better insulation properties Green roofs can retain rainwater and also delays the runoff, reducing the pressure on storm-water drains Through evapotranspiration, plantation on the roof can cool the city in the hot summer months and help reduce urban heat island effect.

Green roofs increase biodiversity; it can sustain a variety of plants and invertebrates and provides a habitat for various bird species.

Green roofs can be designed as small organic food gardens to promote urban agriculture.

By preventing large temperature variations, green roofs are less likely to crack and increase life span and durability of roof surfaces.

Plantation on green roofs helps capture airborne pollutants and atmospheric deposition as well as filters noxious gas and hence improves air quality.

Green roofs help visually in enhancing the cityscapes by providing aesthetically pleasing spaces.

Green roofs are known to reduce the electromagnetic radiation.

Green roofs have excellent noise attenuation as well as can reduce noise penetration.

Origin of greening roof surfaces stretch back into the distant past. Some experts believe that the custom of “planting hanging gardens on arches or roofs” evolved as early as 900 BC. The most famous example of green roof and vertical landscaping was created in the 600 BC

by Assyrian king Nebuchadnezzar — the famous hanging gardens installed for over parts of the palace in Babylon.

The gardens were considered as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

Many well-known Byzantine and Indian miniature paintings also depict lush roof gardens and patios giving us a rough idea of how widespread the concept of greening the roof surfaces was in the past.

Exceptional efforts were made in past few decades by well-known architects and urban planners to promote roof gardens. In fact, architect Le Corbusier is considered as one of the first systematic roof greeners. Le

Corbusier designed large number of spacious roof patios in most of his projects. Despite of fact that all these master architects recognised the potential and importance of using roof areas as green gardens, the idea did not take hold due to extra costs of construction associated with it and fear of serious structural damage that worked against its wider application. Today manufacturers and suppliers of green roof are creating a surge of innovative inspiring research encouraging development in green roof materials and technologies.

New aspects related to green roofing like its climatic effects, energy- and watersaving benefits, environment-friendly techniques as well as solutions related to substrate, drainage and irrigation are being examined. It seems that people are finally realising the opportunities and benefits offered by green roofing systems.

Green roof surfaces not only visually improve the cityscape but also improve the quality of life by providing cleaner and greener spaces in the urban environment, positively impacting the human health and psychology.

A building is assessed based on its performance over its entire life cycle — inception through operation. The main objective of the rating systems is to help design green buildings and evaluate the “greenness” of new and existing buildings.

The rating systems follows best practices along with national as well as international codes that are applicable to achieve the intent of sustainable green development.

It is important to understand that LEED rating system emphasises on various aspects of green development and is not an exclusive building energy rating system.

LEED rating system addresses various green building aspects, including energy and water efficiency, indoor air quality and holistic design. It encourages life-cycle analysis of development to help developers make an informed choice of construction process, material selection and technology application as well as achieve maximum efficiency in design.

Nowadays we see growing number of people who appreciate the ecological and economic value of greening roof surfaces and the whole idea of bringing nature back in the built environment.

Green roof surfaces not only visually improve the cityscape but also improve the quality of life by providing cleaner and greener spaces in the urban environment, positively impacting the human health and psychology. Greening roof surfaces has a long tradition and will continue to evolve.

Greening roof surfaces in our green-starved city scrapes is the most appropriate way of replacing lost nature from our modern day concrete jungles.

LEED doesn’t always guarantee energy efficiency Internationally, voluntary building rating systems like LEED have been instrumental in raising awareness, popularising green design, and improving energy and water efficiency in buildings. LEED is a tool for measuring and rating a building’s environmental performance. Its rating systems have a predefined set of criteria, and there are points for each one of these criteria. The projects are required to fulfil the defined criteria and achieve a certain number of points to be green rated. Depending on the number of credits achieved, project may earn a rating and certification at one of four levels (certified, silver, gold, or platinum).

Regarding energy efficiency, there are some disadvantages too. As LEED is a point-based rating system, it doesn’t always guarantee energy efficiency. All these rating systems, including LEED, are in their adolescent stage and improving day by day. As an environmental architect, Ar. Soni believes it is a must to acknowledge that all these rating systems have been really successful in setting targets for raising awareness about sustainable architecture as well as raising the standards of building design and construction. n

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Green Architecture II Industry analysis

Going green with glass With the growing trend of green design, glass has become an indispensable material Green architecture emphasizes the maximum use of natural daylight. No doubt, glass is an indispensable material for green building.

Its transparency allows lighting to the interiors and integrates the interiors with the exteriors.

Approach green design India is focusing on going green like never before. A long list of Indian glazing firms strongly believes in building a sustainable habitat for the future. “In such a scenario, it is our responsibility as the world’s oldest and largest glazing solutions and building materials solutions provider to focus on ‘green’ in a holistic manner,” explains R Subramanian, Enhance range from Ecosense is a Solar Control glazing solution that allows you to build a world that’s closer to nature

Managing Director - Glass and Solutions, Saint-Gobain India Pvt. Ltd. Ever since Saint-Gobain India-Glass Business (SGGI) starts its presence in India, it has expanded its horizons in creating indigenous products for the needs of the Indian resident, including aesthetics, functionality, experiential comfort and energy conservation.

Then there is Asahi India Glass Ltd. (AIS), India’s one of the leading integrated glass companies, which has been at the forefront of moving towards an eco-friendly future. “It has pioneered innovations in glass coating and processing technology to develop both single-glazed and double-glazed products with the best ‘green’ parameters,” remarks

Using energy-efficient glass also helps in ensuring that the occupants of the home feel more comfortable

Somasundaram Senthilkumar, Business Head – Projects, AIS

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Somasundaram Senthilkumar, Business Head – Projects, AIS. “This is giving developers and architects greater choice and ability to explore possibilities. These solutions enhance the aesthetics, efficiency and economics of commercial and residential spaces, compared to conventional building materials.”

AIS is also popular for its 4G solutions which include glass selection, glass product, glass processing and glass integration. Its technical team conducts building simulations to help architects as well as consultants select the right building material and improve energy efficiency.

Important glass products for green designs For greater choice and ability to explore newer possibilities, architects prefer singleglazed and double-glazed products. These solutions enhance the aesthetics and efficiency of commercial and residential spaces. They also present builders with viable, attractive and economical alternative to traditional building materials.

“Energy-efficient glass ranges from AIS, under the brand name of ‘Ecosense’, provide the benefit of reducing the heat gain in buildings due to its excellent energy-saving properties without compromising on the natural light coming inside the building or the brilliant aesthetics that add value to the façade,” says Mr Senthilkumar.

Industry analysis II Green Architecture “And in winter, they ensure solar gain. So that no matter what the season, people inside stay comfortable at all times. Using energy-efficient glass also helps in ensuring that the occupants of the home feel more comfortable.”

Ideal for solar and thermal insulating parameters, Ecosense combines aesthetics with environmental sensibility and conforms to all international and national green standards, making it the natural choice as a green building solution.

While talking about the effectiveness of the Saint-Gobain products and solutions, Mr Subramanian adds that they not only contribute to reduce the carbon footprint but also to create healthy living environments to ensure the well-being of any building’s residents. He continues, “With the larger picture in mind, Saint-Gobain has strategically focused on transforming all its products to contribute to sustainability and energy conservation, and the result is the largest range of sustainable products for buildings, being made locally available in India. Added to add, most of the SaintGobain products are ECBC compliant and GRIHA certified.”

India being a tropical country needs a glass solution that can let in abundant light and at the same time cut the heat ingress. SaintGobain’s range of advanced coated glass bring in excellent energy efficiency in façade glazing applications by letting in natural light but not heat. Similarly for interior applications, its lacquered glass products are completely devoid of VoCs and help keep the interior environment vibrant, safe and hygienic.

Achieving sustainability in architecture Sustainable architecture only advocates best building practices in terms of design and execution. It does not suggest products or solutions. At a macro level, green codes (LEED/GRIHA) refrain from offering product solutions. They do not promote the usage of any material as a green building friendly product.

According to Mr Subramanian, “The focus should be in achieving sustainability from within which extends to the methodologies deployed for creating eco-friendly products.

The other aspect is to spread the green

The focus should be in achieving sustainability from within which extends to the methodologies deployed for creating ecofriendly products.

Commerzone Building No.4, Pune (Image courtesy: Saint-Gobain)

R Subramanian, Managing Director Glass and Solutions, Saint-Gobain India Pvt. Ltd.

word — increase awareness ongoing green.

Today there is a strong need for knowledge and skills amongst stakeholders to go the sustainable way.”

avoiding the risk of resource depletion It can offer a structural strength that is comparable with a brick wall coupled with very good sound insulation and fire rating The product has the unique property of letting in natural light which is so essential for enhancing the living conditions inside the building As it occupies less space, it gives more manoeuvrable space inside the building and also brings down the dead load weight of the building marginally The embodied energy of glass is much lower when compared with aluminium, cement or paint. This is made possible because of improvement in manufacturing techniques and also of the long life span that glass offers.

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He continues, “SGGI spearheads several initiatives in making this happen. We make energy-efficient products in the most ecofriendly way possible. On the knowledge and skills, a lot of empowerment activities are undertaken on ground: technical papers presentation in green building seminars, reaching out to large groups of stakeholders through website, enabling skilling in sustainable architecture through glass academy courses, and involving students of architecture and interior design through transparence design competition.”

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While talking about green building norms like GRIHA and LEED, Mr Senthilkumar remarks, “These green building norms only give a broad framework for achieving sustainable and eco-friendly buildings, which is expected to have minimal disturbance on the environment thereby maintaining the harmony.

He continues, “The green concept is essentially a result of wanting to make the planet a safe and healthier place to live in.

Energy is just one facet of the issues that are being addressed through this. The others include site selection, water conservation and recycling, material usage and indoor environmental quality.”

LEED certification and poor model of energy efficiency Nothing is perfect and everything comes with its own drawbacks. All the ratings available today have their own pros and cons. “On a broader perspective, the ratings have to be taken as guidelines and benchmarks,” Mr Subramanian. “Going forward, the energy efficiency of the building largely rests on the running or maintenance of the building. A large part of this too rests on the integration of building products from the design stage itself. Today when becoming obsolete is a daily phenomenon, the available ratings are constantly undergoing changes to suit the dynamic ecosystem they are operating in.”

Benefits of glass Glass has a list of inherent benefits as a building material. These are: • The product is 100 per cent recyclable • The source of making glass is silica sand, which is available in abundance,

Achieving green buildings meant shelling out something extra. It is a combination of efficient designs and right products that will help improve the building performance, and everybody has a choice to use glass intelligently and live a green life. n

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Green Architecture II Industry analysis

Painting green Going green has catch up the paint and coating industry too The highest goal of green architecture is to be fully sustainable. That’s why achieving sustainability in architecture is a prime objective. Due to this the paint and coating industry is giving a due importance to sustainability too. Most of the companies are supporting green building through their eco-friendly finishing applications, ongoing research and eco-friendly business practices and facilities.

Going green “Green architecture should remain close to nature,” opines Mahesh S Anand, President – Decoratives, Nippon Paint India Pvt. Ltd. “Use only green products which protect the environment and improve the standard of living. Energy efficiency over the entire life cycle of a building should be the single most important goal.”

As a founding member of IGBC, Nippon Paint advocates and promotes green wherever it is present. The company takes green philosophy very seriously, right from its manufacturing practices to products.

Even Kansai Nerolac is one of the pioneers in development of eco-friendly product

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portfolio. “Recognised among global leaders in product innovation and widely reputed for an unmistakable conviction about environment sensitivity, Kansai Nerolac commands a principal position in providing state-of-the-art solutions in both its décor and industrial applications,” claims Yatnesh Pandey, Chief Manager Marketing, Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd. “Through our product portfolio and customer awareness campaigns to promote environment sensitivity, Kansai tries in its own way to gift a sustainable future.”

Managing environment From its approach towards water, waste and energy management, Nerolac is one the pioneers in making efforts towards having a sustainable future. Its approach towards water management is guided by initiatives for reduction in water consumption, for which water usage monitoring is done by installing water meters at the water source across all KNPL major facilities. In many cases, effluent water from one process might be perfectly suitable for reuse in another process somewhere else on the site. Based on this thought, Nerolac has implemented various initiatives to reuse and recycle water

so as to reduce fresh water consumption and recirculate treated water into processes or suitable applications. With efforts to achieve overall efficiency in sustainability, Nerolac has also taken some steps toward energy management. All these efforts have helped it become more efficient and elevate its environmental responsibility, thereby being the front runner in the paint industry to encourage and practice steps to provide a sustainable future to the country.

For Nippon Paint, commitment to the environment also remains a top priority. The

Through our product portfolio and customer awareness campaigns to promote environment sensitivity, Kansai tries in its own way to gift a sustainable future.

Yatnesh Pandey, Chief Manager Marketing, Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd.

Industry analysis II Green Architecture company is all about creating sustainable futures for everyone. Its paints are formulated and crafted with careful attention to the needs of the environment, good health and well-being. As a result, Nippon has a range of water-based paints with no added lead and mercury, and near-zero volatile organic compounds (VOC) coatings.

Green products Nippon’s products are green with VOC either low or ultra low. However, Nippon Paint Odourless Aircare is a speciality product which abates formaldehyde present in the interiors using active carbon technology.

It is also a near zero VOC product. Its anti-

Energy efficiency over the entire life cycle of a building should be the single most important goal.

Mahesh S Anand, President – Decoratives, Nippon Paint India Pvt. Ltd.

Earth Matters In its continual strive to contribute to sustainable living, Nerolac initiated an online platform in the paint industry named Earth Matters, which has garnered tremendous popularity and traffic amongst industry personalities. It is a page especially designed for architects and designers to promote sustainable development as well as a common platform for general masses to interact, learn and get firsthand information directly from the experts themselves. This thought-provoking initiative was launched to help raise awareness on issues about the environment and its impact on architectural design keeping in mind that the social role of people as consumers and decision makers about sustainable architecture has been ignored. Earth Matter emphasises on the need for change in attitude and gives the architects, engineers and interior designers an opportunity to learn more on methods of sustainable practices toward building environmentally responsible buildings.

bacterial emulsion is unique of its kind which is most suited for hospitals, day care centres and old-age homes.

Nerolac’s impressions eco-clean range for interior wall paints and the excel total range for exterior paints are two range of products that are eco-friendly as they have zero VOC and are lead-free. These products do not emit harmful gases that damage the environment, thereby reducing indoor and outdoor air pollution caused by regular emulsions.

Impressions Eco Clean, an interior premium emulsion paint, has been developed to have superior stain resistance quality and excellent washability with HD technology that gives walls a brighter and vibrant look. Excel Total range exterior emulsion paint is formulated with Japanese technology of weather defence formula, which delivers the all-important consumer benefits of excellent dust resistance and high water repellency. It also provides excellent algae resistance and rich sheen.

As for decorative paints, Kansai has initiated and popularised the concept and campaign called “Healthy Home Paints” to contribute towards a sustainable future. Nerolac’s pioneering efforts have also been recognised by renowned bodies like GRIHA, GS-11 and LEED.

Towards tomorrow Nippon is looking into other avenues like painting services and accessories. The company has also plans to launch few products which could be first of its kind like “virus guard emulsion” and “anti-mosquito paint”. n

Cement your business relationships further An increased investment in infrastructure development is the focus of the present government and this segment has now captured the intense attention from top policy makers of the country. As India builds its infrastructure, use of concrete is steadily gaining pace as the most viable option to speed up construction. All of the infrastructure sectors present excellent opportunities, with roads and highways, bridges, ports and airports, railways and power standing out as particular bright spots, with staggering sums of investment planned in these core sectors. As new construction opportunities emerge, promising growth is expected for concrete and allied products manufacturing companies. Concrete Show India is expected to be the platform for some noteworthy concrete products, equipment and technology introductions.

The 3rd edition of Concrete Show India will be held between 7th and 9th May at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon, Mumbai. Exhibitors from China, Greece, Hong Kong, Korea, Italy, Taiwan, Germany, Turkey and India have confirmed their participation.

Senior professionals comprising of a qualified audience from major infrastructure, equipment and end-user companies have pre-registered to visit Concrete Show India 2015.

A conference with an overview of concrete industry and challenges ahead will deliberate and discuss current topics such as concrete high rises: future trends; infrastructure projects in metropolitan cities; latest technologies, solutions for concrete road design and construction; how to improve and maintain the quality of concrete; sustainability as central to concrete

construction; role of advance concrete and more.

The co-located Bridges India event aims to bring together key project personnel with the objective of bridging the gaps in project execution, efficiency, and sustainability in the construction of bridge and to address various daunting engineering challenges. The conference will feature topics such as designing world-class bridges to transform the region’s landscape and development ambitions; understanding and overcoming the challenges of delivering mega-infrastructure projects; learning from advanced techniques and methodologies in bridge design and construction and more. n

For more details, visit www.concreteshowindia.com

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Green Architecture II Industry analysis

Insulation and green building With the growing importance of going green, building insulation is getting wider acceptance Green design is the new benchmark of sustainability. Green design is the new style statement. Green design is the new requirement. Building insulation is a key enabler in designing green.

Approaching green design Most of the insulation companies are engaged in green, energy-efficient construction as well as participating in drafting energy-efficient building code. U.P. Twiga is one such name which carried out year-long study on the effect of roof and wall insulation. Since then Twiga came up with several energy-efficient insulation products in HVAC. “Today Twiga is involved in green building movement as a founding member of IGBC,” says Biswajit Roy, Manager - Building Solution, U.P. Twiga Fiberglass Ltd. “Twiga is now also certified by GRIHA. Twiga has also become a member in Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC) as the brand is well accepted abroad for energy-efficient construction.”

Twiga Insul fibreglass wool is also tested for all hazardous content and VOC emission criteria as per the green building product’s assessment guideline issued by Singapore

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Green Building Council (SGBC).

Then there is Lloyd Insulations, which has been in business for over 56 years in India and heavily influenced by sustainability issues as a habit. Its line of business includes thermal insulation, noise control and acoustical engineering, which are major contributors to comfort of the occupants of the built environment. “We are pioneers of insulation industry in India whose major role is energy conservation,” explains N. Srinivas, Mentor, Lloyd Insulations (India) Ltd. “We have propagated the value of thermal efficiency even when energy costs were low. We contributed towards upgrade of insulation standards by the user industry in this country.”

Product and process development activities of Lloyd are aimed towards their contributing least detriment to environment. Hazard-free and safe disposal of manufactured materials and maximum use of recycled raw materials (like slag from foundries and steel plants) are primary concerns at all times. Mr Srinivas adds, “We have contributed to instil the concept of scientific evaluation and bench marking of insulation performance by large

Sustainability in architecture can only be achieved through sustainable material and sustainable practice.

Biswajit Roy, Manager- Building Solution, U.P. Twiga Fiberglass Ltd.

users of our products and systems. The company has contributed to drawing up every national standard for materials and application codes in the fields of thermal insulation and acoustics.

“Environmentally harmful asbestos products which were specified and regularly imported by large users like ship builders and railway coach plants during the 60s and the 70s in the country. As leading applicators, we were instrumental in educating specifiers of the detrimental issues related to asbestos to the health of applicators and users, thereby

Industry analysis II Green Architecture Design and detailing capability assumes a significantly prominent position as we go forward.

N. Srinivas, Mentor, Lloyd Insulations (India) Ltd.

being instrumental in discontinuation of this genre of materials by developing safe alternatives offering superior performance.”

Lloyd is one of the pioneers in working towards replacement of ozone depleting substances in manufacture of polyurethane products.

It has adopted these environmentally safer substitutions way ahead of time limits of the Montreal Protocol. “We have promoted ‘dry’ construction concepts with our PEB for building structures, pre-insulated building panels, dry wall construction offerings minimising or eliminating use of construction water,” shares Mr Srinivas.

“Lloyd Insulations, therefore, has all the check boxes ticked as far as green issues are concerned.”

Taking businesses to the next level In order to take any business to the next level, an organisation needs focus on several; different things: leadership, marketing, innovative products and so forth. According to Mr Roy, “Knowledge sharing is the key.

Twiga actively participate extensively in technical meetings and exchange knowledge with various other insulation manufactures from different developed countries.”

Twiga has adopted optimum design to achieve best available solution. In next 5 years Twiga will venture in all probable segments of insulation.

“Being a technology partner of Isover Saint Gobain, Twiga’s quality assurance policy is quite strong, and we will maintain the same,” assures Mr Roy. “The R&D centres in Twiga’s facility consistently test the products to check fibre distribution, loss of ignition, density and lamination quality as well as develop upon more user-friendly and tailor-made solutions for projects. Twiga

also is instrumental in promoting special lightweight insulation products for marine and industry segment.”

does not affect the performance parameter or performing life of the material in long run.”

Important products for green designs Lloyd Insulations has a long list of products for exceptional thermal insulation. Its metal faced pre-insulated building panels with this highly efficient and structurally strong core are self-supporting and easy to erect in place. They afford exceptionally short building completion schedules. Insitu application capability of this family of materials eliminates use of adhesives, which are normally solvent dispersed. Buildings featuring spray applied polyurethane with ETICS represent the most energy-efficient roofing solutions to built environment.

Lloyd Insulations — in order to take the business next level — works with leading designers and architects to create environmentally better and thermally more efficient built environment to match standards that are evolving in the field.

“Design and detailing capability assumes a significantly prominent position as we go forward,” says Mr Srinivas.

Sustainability in architecture There is no substitute to being fully conscious of sustainability issues as an organisation proceeds in any field, primarily in activities related to creation of built environment for the future. Profligacy of past practices cannot be sustained in the context of increasing population, depleting resources and higher usage of products and services by the generations to come. “We have to recognise that what we create today would survive for the next 40 to 50 years, performing efficiently if we build them right or wastefully otherwise,” explains Mr Srinivas. “It is our responsibility to see that they consume resources like energy at levels no higher than the optimum all through their service life. How to create sustainability is dependent on the passion with which we pursue our actions. It can offer fairly high levels of excitement to an otherwise dull profession.”

Lloyd’s major products are PEBs, which are pre-fabricated and capable of being resited easily; mineral wool insulation, which is manufactured with naturally occurring minerals and partly recycled materials; and polyurethane products.

While talking about green products for building insulation, Mr Roy talks not only about products but also about the solutions: l Building envelope: Twiga products like faced and un-faced fibreglass wool insulation boards are suitable for underdeck, cavity wall, wall lining and facade assembly. l HVAC:

Twiga Insul is recommended for duct wrap and pipe insulation for central air conditioning systems. Twiga also provide flexible insulated or un-insulated ducts and prefabricated non metallic duct boards against conventional metal ducting plus insulation.

“Sustainability in architecture can only be achieved through sustainable material and sustainable practice,” believes Mr Roy. “In some developed countries, it called passive architecture that uses insulating material like fibreglass wool for improving energy efficiency. Right from the building envelope design to reduce temperature loss in a HVAC duct or chilled/hot water pipe insulation material contributes a lot towards efficient use of energy and reduction of CO2 emission.”

He continues, “Material selection is also quite important as embodied energy and performing life of various materials can be widely different. Inorganic material’s manufactured from abundant raw materials and that devoid of petroleum by-products should be considered more. On the other hand materials with recycled content should be encouraged provided the recycled content

l Drywall

partition: Low density resilient fibreglass wool helps achieve high acoustic isolation in dry wall partition without increasing the load in the assembly.

l Pre-engineered

factory buildings and light gauge/pre-fabricated structures: Tough and flexible insulation blankets of customised length with special facing and tabs are applicable for metal building roof and wall insulation. The product is easy to handle, install and meets best thermal, acoustic and fire-safety features.

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Green Architecture II Industry analysis

Representation only Image courtesy: Roca

Green, clean and innovative sanitary The awareness of sustainability and green living has influenced the sanitary ware world to go for new development Time has changed. With time, lifestyle has also changed. Not only that, people have changed the way they use water and energy.

These all cumulatively pave the way to green building. The sanitary ware industry also evolved with the time and requirement.

Role in green buildings Duravit is one such company which has grown up with time. “Already for decades, the company’s history has been shaped by the awareness for sustainable values and actions,” remarks Asutosh Shah, Managing Director, Duravit India. “The responsible use of resources has become an essential part of every new development. This continues to give rise to new product ideas that contribute to a responsible future.”

Kohler isn’t fall behind either. The company has contributed strongly in this area through

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products which are designed for green rated buildings. “We have WCs which are designed to perform while saving on water (lesser water consumption),” explains Salil Sadanandan, Managing Director, Kohler India. “Also, we have faucet products like showerheads which are designed to deliver same quality showering by using lesser water. This is done by innovatively designing the waterways in the showerheads.”

Roca is also committed to the environment in terms of both its products and its production processes. Pau Abello, MD, Roca, claims, “We are keenly aware that water is a unique and limited resource, and have therefore spent over 50 years developing water and energy-saving devices for our products, thereby contributing to more balanced and sustainable co-existence

with the environment. Our products exemplify the commitment to energy and water saving and their use can help real estate developers meet the most stringent of green building rating systems across the world.

Together all stakeholders can ensure usage of materials and products that are eco-friendly and can achieve an eco-system that is highly sustainable.

Pau Abello, MD, Roca

Industry analysis II Green Architecture

Katalyst technology injects 2 litres of air into the water flow per minute, making every drop bigger and more luxurious whilst saving water.

Salil Sadanandan, Managing Director, Kohler India

Promoting green buildings In general, the sanitary industry has been making a decisive contribution in terms of global sustainability targets for many years.

According to Mr Shah, “The upcoming challenge will be developing innovative solutions and to optimise existing technologies that are already on a very high level today. That includes water saving as well as energy saving and environmentally friendly production processes.”

It’s the sum of various actions that makes the difference, and that’s why Duravit is dedicated on investing in modern technologies to provide the structural framework for sustainability efforts.

Achieving sustainability in architecture Going green is the new buzzword. Not only that, it has also become necessity for the better future. “Over the last few years, the architect community has begun to vehemently lay emphasis on sustainability when constructing new real estate projects,” explains Mr Abello. “Customers too have begun to see the long-term benefits of

Already for decades, the company’s history has been shaped by the awareness for sustainable values and actions, Asutosh Shah, Managing Director, Duravit India

green buildings. Together all stakeholders can ensure usage of materials and products that are eco-friendly and can achieve an eco-system that is highly sustainable.”

thermostatic faucets that are equipped with temperature control and waterless urinals with electronic flush systems are some of the unique Roca products that amalgamate innovation with eco-friendly technology. “We also have revolutionary products like the W+W (integrated wash basin and water closet) which helps save space and water both,” claims Mr Abello.

“This is a single unit that filters the wastewater from the basin and reuses it in the discharge of the cistern.”

While talking about Roca and its role in sustainability, Mr Abello says that Roca works with the conviction that technological innovation constitutes an essential element for achieving progressive development and this also holds the key to full sustainability.

Keeping this goal in mind, Roca uses stateof-the-art technology in all subsidiaries and all phases of its production process.

Duravit, which has become a legent in bathroom ceramic with history of two century, is one of the leading suppliers of bathroom ceramic, bathroom furniture and accessories. The Duravit Rimless technology offers an efficient solution wherever optimum hygiene is required. Its innovative and effective flushing technology delivers optimum flushing results with small water volumes as 4.5 litres. And thanks to the open rim less cleanser is needed. The McDry urinal and the Architec Dry urinal even operate without any water. “A purely plantbased and thus biodegradable sealing liquid effectively prevents unpleasant odours,” says Mr Shah. “The siphon, like the urinal itself, is made from robust, durable sanitary ceramic.”

Future with India With the new Modi-fied government and several optimistic policies, the India Inc. is cruising smoothly towards the future, and sanitary ware market is also positive about its future. “India is an important market for us, and we continue to increase our focus on products and services in the country,” says Mr Sadanandan. “We aim to increase our footprint across the country with increased penetration through launching showrooms.

Keeping with the Indian consumer’s preferences, we will launch innovative products that are high on technology, luxury and design. Some products like Pureclean are targeted at bringing about a habit change in the consumer, thus setting new trends in bathware and sanitation.”

It would be incomplete without mentioning Kohler and its sanity products that are essential for green designs. Its Brive toilet combines superlative design with superior flushing capabilities to provide the best category experience. Super engineering enables twin streams of water to be channelled along either side of the rim till they merge in front. The resultant wave is so powerful that it removes bulk and light waste in one go while consuming less water.

Then there is Katalyst, a revolutionary patent-pending air induction technology that maximises the air-water mix to deliver a dense invigorating showering experience.

Mr Sadanandan informs that Katalyst technology injects 2 litres of air into the water flow per minute, making every drop bigger and more luxurious whilst saving water.

However, Kohler doesn’t have any specific investment target. It is going to continue to expand. It has well over a $100 million dollars invested in India. Kohler is going to continue to expand our facilities here in India.

Essential products for green buildings Roca has positioned itself as a reference point for design, technology and sustainable development. Its Roca L20 with cold start system is one of its most important products for green design. The eco-click water saving system, allows one to cut water consumption by up to 50 per cent. The frontal cold water start system effectively helps save energy by preventing the boiler from firing up when not needed. Adjustable flows from 0-100 per fect, controllable levers, automatic shut offs, electronic faucets with intelligent systems that limit the flow of water to 6 litres per minute,

Kohler has a fabulous product names Steward waterless urinal which can help a building earn water-efficiency points in the LEED certification. n

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Green Architecture II Project review

Green Municipal Headquarter Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation headquarters receives LEED Gold Certification The new headquarter of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), located at the Killa junction across Palm Beach Road in Belapur, has been awarded the prestigious ‘gold’ certification under LEED India new construction rating system by Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for its commitment to sustainable development.

The building has a total built-up area of 33,258 sq.m. and houses various administrative, engineering departments, political head offices and general body hall under one roof. The project was visualised as imposing and expressive, an identity of the corporation which has proved itself successfully in a very short time span.

Uniqueness of this project can be defined through various aspects right from location and site character to planning concept, structural system, use of materials, sustainable technologies for

essential services and aesthetic approach.

The project was completed in 2014 and symbolises the NMMC’s move towards an environment friendly future. The features in this building are: • Efficient building envelope with high performance glazing • Efficient lighting system • Energy efficient water-cooled chiller • Variable speed chilled water pumping system • Variable frequency drives on air handling units • Low-flow plumbing fixtures • Water reuse • Rain water harvesting • Native and adaptive vegetation consuming less water • Ample landscape • Use of low-VOC paints, adhesives, sealants.

Green Building Consultancy Services, one of the lines of businesses of Electricals & Electronics Division at Godrej & Boyce NMMC headquarters in Belapur

Mfg. Co. Ltd. was the Green Building consultant and Hiten Sethi Associates (HSA) was the Architectural Consultant on onboard for the project.

Speaking on the achievement, George Menezes, Chief Operating Officer, Godrej Electricals & Electronics Division said, “It’s a matter of great pride for our Green Building vertical, which played a pivotal role in getting the ‘gold’ certification for this iconic building, a first of its kind in the municipal corporations, where on such a large-scale all tenets of sustainability have been so nicely woven into the building’s design, construction and operations.”

H.N. Daruwalla, Executive Vice President, Godrej Electricals and Electronics Division commented, “The project will be saving 22 per cent on energy and 43 per cent on potable water every year and at the same time provide excellent indoor air quality for the health of employees as well as improve efficiency levels by providing green environment.”

Rumi Engineer, Business Head, Green Building Consultancy Services, Godrej Electricals & Electronics Division said, “It’s really a commendable achievement by the entire team involved in the design and construction of NMMC headquarters. This project will definitely pave way to more sustainable development by government and municipal councils across India.”

Apart the ‘green’ certification the project has few other achievements in design and construction as well viz. world record for “longest post tensioned PT beam slab system”, national record for “largest Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) dome (37.314 metres diameter and 16.409 metres height)” and national record for “tallest national flag at 222 ft” awarded by Limca Book of Records. n

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Promotional Feature

K-Lite inspires city beautification K-Lite surface mounted Giraffe pole, integrated with Hamal / Jamal luminaire is an exclusive choice of designers for city beautification lighting. It is designed for flexibility in the contour of arm, height, overhang and multiple arms.

Giraffe pole is continuously tapered and has two stepped spacer with conical top to accommodate multiple lighting arms.

The lighting arms are slide fit on swaged mountings. The lighting arms are braced with aesthetically contoured plates, which can also display the monogram or names.

The tapered polygonal pole, stepped spacer and conical top with swaged mounts is auto welded and hot dip galvanised – both internally and externally with 80 microns coat as per IS 4759. Specially contoured lighting arm is made of heavy-duty GI pipe and swaged on top to accommodate Hamal / Jamal luminaires. The mating portion is step less and sleek.

The complete pole is treated with zinc phosphate penetrating primer and finished with polyurethane-based premium coat with choice of colour. The pole is supplied

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with necessary foundation bolts and nuts for normal soil condition Hamal / Jamal luminaires, suitable for mounting on a Giraffe pole, is a compact, integral type, Hamal cut off type lighting system using 70 to 400 watts metal halide lamp suitable for E27 and E40 base. Jamal cut off type lighting system using 70 to 250 watts metal halide or high pressure sodium vapour tubular lamp suitable for E27 and E40 base.

The luminaire allows adjustment of the whole luminaire assembly in the horizontal plane to match the lighting distribution requirement. The luminaire is IP 65 protected. The body is made of die cast aluminium with seal-safe toughened glass diffuser. The control gear assembly is accessible through the bottom cover with hinged arrangement. The anodised reflector is a specially designed one for ensuring high photometric performance.

The luminaire is complete with all accessories and suitable for operation on 240 V AC and comprises of following: • Heavy-duty copper ballast, low loss type ATCO (Australian-make) or BAG

hamal adjustable

jamal adjustable

Electronic (German-make).

• Superimposed igniters ATCO (Australianmake) or BAG Electronic (German-make).

• Step brand capacitor to IS 1569 for power factor improvement.

• Loop in and loop out arrangement suitable upto 4 sq.mm. cable with WAGO German-make terminal blocks.

• Gear tray completely wired with heat resistant cables.

Contact K-Lite Industries Tele: +91-44-26257710 Mobile: +91-9500079797 Email : info@klite.in, sales@klite.in www.klite.in

Promotional Feature

Tekla improves construction project workflows TS21 Better concrete pours

Tekla Structures 21 brings advanced collaboration with architects and plant or MEP design engineers Tekla, a Trimble company, recently introduced Tekla Structures 21, the latest version of its Building Information Modelling (BIM) software for the engineering and construction markets. With advancements in interoperability, drawing control, usability and performance, Tekla Structures 21 improves industrial and commercial construction project workflows across construction disciplines, delivering benefits to structural steel and precast concrete designers, detailers and fabricators, concrete and general contractors, and enhanced collaboration with Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) and plant design engineers, architects and others. In conjunction with Tekla Structures 21, Tekla has also launched two new and unique services, Tekla Model Sharing and Tekla Warehouse.

“After a decade in use, Tekla Structures continues to further the evolution of BIM from an experimental to an essential part of designing, engineering and building all types of buildings and structures,” said Risto Räty, Executive Vice President, Deputy CEO of Tekla and General Manager of Trimble Buildings Structures Division. “Tekla Structures 21 reduces the time between concept and construction by enabling more advanced project team collaboration and productivity, enabling free flowing communication between all project stakeholders. The end result is the efficient design and building of better structures.”

Enhanced collaboration and workflow Improved reference model handling: Collaboration with other trades is easier with

Tekla Structures 21’s improved reference model handling, whether the reference model’s file type is IFC, DGN, DWG or SKP. Better industrial project workflow: Integration with industrial plant design software improves interoperability for plant or offshore construction projects while the improved link with Intergraph Smart 3D means better model information transfer and the new bi-directional link with AVEVA PDMS introduces better management of information transfer and changes.

TS21 Simpler efficient modeling Direct Modification

customised company-specific dimensions to their own standard parts, such as bolts and embeds.

Smoother integration and export: Integration with Autodesk’s Revit Architecture and Revit MEP, and Trimble SketchUp Pro offers improved collaboration opportunities between architectural project teams. To smooth project workflows, Tekla Structures 21 automates the export of models and drawings downstream.

Better concrete pours: Tekla Structures 21 makes modelling cast-in-place concrete and modifying pours and pour breaks easier and more reliable. Because concrete pour information is now automatically inherited after a pour break, no vital information will be lost.

Enhanced IFC change management and control: Enhanced IFC change management enables users to detect, manage and accommodate changes with more control.

Simpler, more efficient modelling: Drawing construction lines, circles and points and placing custom parts is straightforward as is editing the positions. In addition, the Organiser allows using accurate, objectbased model data for material quantity takeoffs.

Drawing control and automation: Simplifies the processes of navigating, printing and viewing drawing properties for greater view-level control and allows users to give

Tekla has also introduced two new unique services: Tekla model sharing: This service allows project team members to work on the same Tekla model from any location or time zone for delivering projects faster and with more flexibility.

Tekla warehouse: A free online library of Tekla Structures add-ons, libraries and templates, allowing users to achieve more efficient workflows and higher quality projects. n

For more information and to download Tekla Structures 21, visit www.teklastructures.com.

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tenderS Railways Company Name: Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited Tender Detail: Partial/Full Demolition/dismantling of Buildings/structures identified for acquisition for Phase 2 R4B south extension of North South metro corridor using required cutting tools (like wire saw, wall saw, floor saw, high/long reach machines, etc).

Location: Kanakapura Documentation Sale from: 13 March 2015 Documentation Sale to: 04 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 5,000/EMD: ` 1, 85,000/Closing Date: 11 May 2015 Address: 3rd Floor, BMTC Complex, K.H.Road Shantinagar, Bangalore-560 027 Karnataka.

Tel: 91 80 22969300/301 Direct: 91 80 22969350 Fax: 91 80 22969222 Email: bmrcl@dataone.in Website: www.bmrc.co.in Company Name: Southern Railway Tender Detail: Madurai Division:-Reconstruction of staff quarters Type II-4 units,Type III-3 units & Type IV-1 unit at Pudukottai Type IV-1 unit at Karaikkudi, Type II4 units at Sivaganga and Type IV-1 unit at Mandapam Location: Tamil Nadu Documentation Sale from: 13 March 2015 Documentation Sale to: 13 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 5,480/- EMD: ` 221,150/Closing Date: 13 April 2015 Address: Office Of The Divisional Railway Manager (Works), Southern Railway, Madurai Division, Madurai – 625016, Tamil Nadu.

Tel: 91 452 2308402 Fax: 91 452 2308400 Website: www.sr.indianrailways.gov.in

Power Company Name: Power Grid Corporation of India Limited Tender Detail: Transmission Line Tower Package Tw01 Including Supply of Earthwire, Hardware Fittings and Accessories for Conductor and Earthwire For 400kv D/C Transmission Line From Kota Lilo Point To Jaipur South Gantry.

Location: Rajasthan Documentation Sale from: 03 March 2015 Documentation Sale to: 17 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 25,000/EMD: ` 2, 64, 18,000/Closing Date: 20 April 2015 Address: Saudamini, 3rd Floor, Plot No-2, Sector-29 Gurgaon -122001 Haryana Tel: 91 124 2571700-19, 2822376/ Mobile: 91 8130990572/9910379464 Fax: 91 124 2571 831 Website: www.powergridindia.com Company Name: Madhya Pradesh Power Generating Company Limited

Tender Detail: E-tender - Annual work contract for Operation and Maintenance of Coal Mill reject handling system of Boiler of Unit # 1 & 2 as per Scope of Work at 2x600 MW, SSTPP MPPGCL Dongalia Distt Khandwa (M.P) Location: Khandwa Documentation Sale from: 23 February 2015 Documentation Sale to: 06 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 5,250/- (Inclusive of VAT) EMD: ` 221,000/Closing Date: 06 April 2015 Address: Office of the Superintending Engineer (P&W), Shree Singaji Thermal Power Project, MPPGCL, Dongalia, Khandwa - 450110 Madhya Pradesh Email: sepnw.sstpp1@gmail.com Website: www.mppgenco.nic.in Company Name: Power Grid Corporation of India Limited Tender Detail: Composite Insulator Packages CIS01 and CIS02 for 765/400 KV TL IN NRI associated with inter-regional system strengthening scheme for WR And NR-Part-B Location: Orai Aligarh Documentation Sale from: 02 March 2015 Documentation Sale to: 16 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 3,503,000/EMD: ` 7,076,000/Closing Date: 17 April 2015 Address: Powergrid, Saudamini, Plot No 2, Sector-29, Gurgaon-122001 Haryana Tel: 91 124 2822336/2368/2377 Fax: 91 124 2571831 Website: www.powergridindia.com

Documentation Sale to: 13 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 30,000/EMD: ` 100,000/Closing Date: 13 April 2015 Address: Deen Dayal Nagar (Near Office of Executive Engineer, NH Division, Ranchi) Booty Road, Ranchi-834008 Jharkhand Tel: 91 651 2360428/2400922/2361304 Fax: 91 651 2360428 Website: www.jharkhand.gov.in

Water & Sewerage Company Name: Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board Tender Detail: Plugging of sewage outfalls and diversion works in the Buckingham Canal Basin in Chennai City water ways by carrying out Enlargement of Sewage Pumping Main, improvements to sewage pumping stations.

Location: Chennai Documentation Sale from: 26 February 2015 Documentation Sale to: 07 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 5,250/EMD: ` 11, 89,000/Closing Date: 8 April 2015 Address: O/o Superintending Engineer C and M CMWSSB, No 1, Pumping Station Road, Chindatripet, Chennai-600002 Tamil Nadu Tel: 91 44 28451300 Fax: 91 44 28458181 Website: www.tangedco.gov.in

Construction

Highways Company Name: National Highways Authority of India Tender Detail: Request for Proposal for “Development of Six-Lane Eastern Peripheral Expressway (NH No. NE-II) in the States of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh from Km 93.000 to Km 114.000” Package-V on Engineering, Procurement & Construction (EPC) Mode - on e-basis.

Location: Haryana and Uttar Pradesh Documentation Sale from: 25 February 2015 Documentation Sale to: 14 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 70,000/EMD: ` 66,500,000/Closing Date: 15 April 2015 Address: Expressway Division, National Highways Authority of India, G-5 & G-6, Sector 10, Dwarka New Delhi-110075 Delhi Tel: 91 11 25074100 (Extn 1407) Email: rajeevyadav@nhai.org Website: www.nhai.org Company Name: State Highways Authority of Jharkhand Tender Detail: CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR AUTHORITY’S ENGINEER FOR SUPERVISION OF Construction work of High Level Bridge (with approach road) Over Koel River in Sundipur Pansa Road ON EPC MODE. Documentation Sale from: 10 March 2015

Company Name: Government of Odisha Tender Detail: Restoration of disturbed stone packing in the upstream slope from RD 1.20km to 1.50km. Left Earth Dam under DRIP on e-basis.

Documentation Sale from: 02 March 2015 Documentation Sale to: 17 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 6,000 + (5% VAT) EMD: ` 35,900.00/-(Bid security) Closing Date: 17 April 2015 Address: Office of the Executive Engineer, Main Dam Division, Burla, Sambalpur - 768017 Odisha Tel: 91 663 2430101/2430452 Website: www.odisha.gov.in Company Name: Government of Odisha Tender Detail: Restoration of downstream apron with cavity filling of left spillway of Hirakud Dam under DRIP. Location: Hirakud Documentation Sale from: 02 March 2015 Documentation Sale to: 17 April 2015 Documentation Fees: ` 6,000 + (5% VAT ) EMD: ` 46,400/- (Bid security) Closing Date: 17 April 2015 Address: Office of the Executive Engineer, Main Dam Division, Burla, Sambalpur- 768017 Odisha Tel: 91 663 2430101/2430452 Website: www.odisha.gov.in

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A C E UPDATE april 2015

ARCHITECTURE

CONSTRUCTION

ENGINEERING

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Arier Natura Pvt. Ltd..................................................... 41 BASF India Limited......................................................IFC Fair Mate Chemicals Pvt. Ltd ���������������������������������������42 Gayatri Enterprises ...................................................... 13 Glass Wall Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd............................... 3 K-Lite Industries......................................................... IBC Premier Bars Pvt. Ltd...................................................FC Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers Ltd......................... BC Shree Sai Enterprise.................................................... 23 Tekla India Pvt. Ltd........................................................11 True Wall Specialities Pvt. Ltd........................................ 9 Vashi Electricals Pvt. Ltd................................................ 7

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