Ahmad Sayeed Dildar, Zabihullah Dalil Shinwari, Mohammad Qadim Stanikzai
Volume 5 Issue 1 | Dec 2023
DOI: 10.31841/KJET.2023.32
Views: 170
Total Downloads: 17
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Abstract
The construction industry plays a critical role in a country's development, impacting both its aesthetics and economic growth. This industry in Afghanistan has been experiencing a shortage of steel construction that has hindered infrastructural development. The current study aims to identify the root causes of this shortage, its negative impact on infrastructural development, and potential solutions to promote steel construction within the country. A qualitative approach has been adopted through questionnaires and interviews with over 100 licensed-structural engineers and steel manufacturers in major provinces of the country. The findings reveal that the lack of government attention towards the construction industry, the absence of professional firms and engineers, and the dominance of concrete in the construction industry of Afghanistan contribute to the shortage of steel construction. This has had adverse effects on the country's economy and environment. However, promoting steel construction can improve infrastructural development due to its strength, cost effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, versatility, safety, and speed that invite the engineers to create innovative structural designs. The study contributes to the
understanding of the challenges faced by the construction industry in Afghanistan and offers practical recommendations for promoting steel construction, which can significantly impact infrastructural development and economic growth. Moreover, the research provides insights into potential policy changes, investment strategies, and educational initiatives that can address the shortage of steel construction and promote sustainable development in the country.
Keywords: Steel Construction, Construction industry, Sustainability, Infrastructural development, Economic growth