Construction Costs Rise 11% in 2024, Driven by Labour Expenses

19 Nov 2024 CW Team

The cost of construction in India increased by 11% over the past year, primarily driven by a 25% rise in labour expenses, according to Colliers India. While prices of key materials like cement dropped by 15% and steel saw a marginal 1% decrease, the surge in labour costs stretched construction budgets across sectors.

“Labour, which constitutes over a quarter of construction costs, has seen significant inflation due to the demand for skilled workers and associated training and compliance costs,” said Badal Yagnik, CEO of Colliers India.

The residential segment experienced the sharpest cost escalation due to a growing focus on quality construction and demand for gated communities. Meanwhile, commercial and industrial real estate remained resilient, with 37 million square feet of office space and 22 million square feet of warehousing space completed in the first nine months of 2024.

“Despite rising costs, investments in automation and training are helping developers address manpower challenges and streamline project timelines,” said Vimal Nadar, senior director at Colliers India.

With labour costs continuing to influence overall construction expenses, developers are exploring strategies to optimize operations and mitigate rising costs.

Resources

29 May 2026

KBL Launches Smart Skid Mounted Fire Pump Set

Kirloskar Brothers (KBL) has launched its Smart Skid Mounted Fire Pump Set, an integrated fire protection solution designed to improve operational efficiency, remote monitoring and installation flexibility. The system was inaugurated by Ms Madhuritai Misal, Hon. Minister of State for Urban Development, Government of Maharashtra.The Smart Skid Mounted Fire Pump Set is a factory-tested, pre-packaged solution that combines FM/UL-certified motor and engine pump sets with IoT-enabled remote monitoring. Designed to deliver a flow rate of 170 m³/hr at a head of 100 metres, the system aims to provide..

Senior Living Shifts Beyond Retirement Housing

Senior living in India is increasingly being positioned as a lifestyle-driven housing segment rather than conventional retirement accommodation. Across projects in Bengaluru, Pune and the NCR, developers are focusing on wellness ecosystems, assisted independence and active ageing, reflecting changing perceptions of later life among urban affluent buyers.The shift is being driven by financially secure seniors seeking socially engaged and professionally managed communities instead of ageing in large family homes. Developers are also moving away from standalone retirement campuses, particularly i..

Antica Ceramica Launches Heritage-Inspired Terracotta Tiles

Antica Ceramica has launched a new terracotta tile collection inspired by India’s architectural heritage and designed for contemporary interiors and exteriors. The range combines handcrafted aesthetics with modern functionality, bringing warmth, texture and cultural character to residential and hospitality spaces.Drawing inspiration from traditional courtyards, verandahs and heritage homes, the collection features terracotta tones, handcrafted motifs and customisable patterns aimed at transforming flooring and surfaces into design elements. The launch reflects growing demand for natural mate..