CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS & PROJECT MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE · Vol. 2021

Exploring the use of Drones for sustainable construction in developing countries

Dillip Kumar Das and Ayodeji Olauntji Aiyetan

Keywords: Construction, Developing countries, Drone, Sustainability, Unmanned aerial vehicles

Abstract

Construction is faced with the challenges of economic and environmental ailments in developing countries. Low productivity in construction work, delays in construction, occurrence of accidents, and environmental pollution are experienced. Despite using various strategic measures and technology to plan, design, execute, monitor and control, construction related challenges continue to occur. It is argued that the use of Drone can enable alleviating various construction related challenges and assist in achieving sustainable construction. Using the context of South Africa and India's construction industry, this study explored for what purposes Drones can be used in construction and how they can contribute to the sustainability of construction in developing countries. A survey was conducted among various construction industry stakeholders, such as construction industry professionals and Drones technology experts, to obtain data. The collected data was analysed by using relevant descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings suggested that Drones can be used in several construction activities in developing countries and offer significant advantages such as gathering real-time information and tracking construction activities, virtual accessibility of non-accessible areas, obtaining high-resolution and 3D images. However, lack of knowledge, competency and trained personnel, Government regulations, piloting license requirements etc. are major barriers. The use of Drones can have significant implications on the construction industry, such as reduction in delay and cost and assisting in real-time decision making.