The integration of AI and Building Information Modeling (BIM) has the potential to revolutionize Bangladesh's construction industry, driving economic growth, improving efficiency and promoting sustainability
A prototype AI-powered robot builds a two-story building in Austin, USA. By using such technology, construction waste can be reduced by 25%. Photo: Bloomberg
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A prototype AI-powered robot builds a two-story building in Austin, USA. By using such technology, construction waste can be reduced by 25%. Photo: Bloomberg
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the design and construction industry is a transformative force that has the potential to reshape the global economy. In Bangladesh, where infrastructure development is a key driver of economic growth, AI-based planning and construction combined with Building Information Modeling (BIM) can spark an economic revolution.
AI technologies are expected to grow exponentially in the global construction industry, with a projected market value of $10.3 billion by 2026, up from $1.2 billion in 2020. AI-powered tools automate repetitive tasks, improve resource management and optimize project schedules. For example, McKinsey reported that using AI in construction could reduce costs by 20% and increase project efficiency by 30%.
Countries like the US and China are leading the way with AI applications in smart cities, predictive analytics for building maintenance and autonomous construction equipment. China's AI-powered construction market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 35% from 2023 to 2030, driven by government initiatives to build “digital twin” cities.
AI applications also go beyond cost savings. In the UK, 90% of large construction companies are using AI-driven BIM for sustainable designs, reducing energy consumption by up to 40%. According to the World Economic Forum, integrating BIM with AI has the potential to reduce construction waste by 25%.
The construction industry contributes around 8% of Bangladesh's GDP and employs over 3.5 million people. However, inefficiencies, delays and cost overruns continue to plague the industry. Traditional construction practices result in 30% wasted materials and delay project completion by an average of 50% of the original timeline.
AI can help solve these challenges by streamlining workflows, predicting risks and optimizing resources. For example, AI tools like OpenSpace can use computer vision to track progress and detect delays, potentially saving 20-30% of time on infrastructure projects in Bangladesh. AI algorithms can also analyze historical data to predict structural risks, which is particularly important for Bangladesh given its vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods.
BIM, already used in major urban development projects such as Dhaka Metro Rail, can be augmented with AI to promote collaboration and precision. AI-powered BIM can generate 3D models, automate collision detection, and provide real-time updates. For example, integrating BIM into government projects could reduce construction costs by 15%, resulting in billions of dollars in annual savings.
AI-driven BIM plays a key role in the development of smart cities. In Dhaka, traffic congestion costs the economy about $4.4 billion annually. AI has the potential to optimize traffic flow and design more efficient road networks, as demonstrated by Singapore's AI-based smart city planning, which reduced traffic delays by 20%. This model could be replicated in Bangladesh to address its own transport challenges.
AI can also have a significant impact on affordable housing projects by optimizing designs and reducing material waste. India's adoption of AI and BIM in low-cost housing under the 'Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana' saved 25% of the project cost. Bangladesh’s “Ashrayan Project” could also benefit and facilitate the creation of low-cost housing for marginalized communities.
AI and BIM can also contribute to the green building movement. Globally, AI-integrated BIM has reduced building energy consumption by 30% in projects such as the Salesforce Tower in California. In Bangladesh, where energy efficiency is critical, these technologies can help ensure compliance with green standards and ultimately reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
AI algorithms are also valuable for simulating natural disaster scenarios and helping engineers design resilient structures. Japan, for example, has used AI to build earthquake-resistant buildings, reducing disaster-related deaths by 70% over the last decade. Bangladesh, located in a seismically active region, could use AI to design structures that prevent catastrophic losses in natural disasters.
However, the adoption of AI and BIM in Bangladesh faces several challenges. One such obstacle is the skills gap, as less than 10% of engineers in Bangladesh are trained in AI and BIM technologies, according to BASIS. Additionally, the high initial costs associated with implementing these technologies can deter small construction companies. Furthermore, the lack of a robust digital infrastructure policy hinders the public sector’s ability to effectively adopt AI.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits are immense. It is estimated that AI will create 97 million new jobs worldwide by 2025, including positions in the design and construction industries. In Bangladesh, professionals with skills in AI-BIM integration could command salaries 50% higher than the average engineer. Additionally, Bangladesh could position itself as a global hub for outsourcing design and construction services due to its AI expertise.
By adopting AI, Bangladesh could increase its GDP by 10-15% by 2035, similar to India's predicted GDP growth through AI of 12%. To realize this potential, Bangladesh needs to establish AI-BIM training programs in collaboration with universities and international companies such as Autodesk and Trimble.
Public-private partnerships should be promoted to finance AI adoption, and policy reforms should include tax incentives for digital transformation. Pilot projects like AI-driven BIM for major infrastructure like Padma Bridge II or smart township development in Purbachal should also be launched.
AI and BIM are not just tools; They are catalysts for economic change. Through strategic implementation, Bangladesh can eliminate inefficiencies, improve sustainability and position itself as a leader in the global construction industry. The integration of these technologies will modernize the sector and improve the country's economic standing.
The time to act is now. By using AI and BIM, Bangladesh can ensure a prosperous, resilient and technologically advanced future.
SM Muhaiminul Islam is a researcher and member of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB)
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of The Business Standard.