Understanding the Causes of Project Delays and Cost Overruns in Construction: A Comprehensive Analysis across Literature, Surveys, and Case Studies
Keywords:
Construction delays, cost overruns, design changes, poor planning, resource shortagesAbstract
The construction industry serves as a cornerstone for economic development, driving infrastructure growth and societal advancement. However, it faces persistent challenges in the form of project delays and cost overruns, which hinder its potential to contribute optimally to national economies. These issues are particularly acute in the Indian construction sector, where rapid urbanization and infrastructure demands magnify their impact. Addressing these inefficiencies is crucial to ensuring the timely delivery of projects within budgetary constraints. This research investigates the underlying causes of delays and cost overruns in Indian construction projects through a multifaceted approach, combining a thorough literature review, industry surveys, and case study analyses. The study aims to identify, categorize, and analyze key factors contributing to these challenges. Survey data collected from industry professionals highlight issues such as frequent design changes, inadequate planning, and financial constraints as major contributors to project inefficiencies. By employing frequency analysis and validating findings through comparative case studies, the research offers actionable recommendations to mitigate these challenges. These solutions are designed to improve project timelines, enhance cost management, and boost overall efficiency, ultimately supporting the sustainable growth of the construction industry.
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