Large-scale Infrastructure Projects Research Articles

Model of cost management for the Jakarta Bandung High Speed Railway Project

The completion of the Jakarta-Bandung High-speed railway (JBHSR) project in 2023 marks a significant milestone for Indonesia, showcasing enhanced connectivity between two cities of Jakarta and Bandung. Despite facing challenges, particularly in cost management, this study employs content validity ratio, factor analysis and structural equation modelling to address these issues. Surveying 404 stakeholders, it highlights the crucial role of cost planning in project success, aligning with existing literature on similar endeavors. The final model refines 108 cost management attributes as per PMBOK guidelines, namely, cost management process involves planning, estimation, budget determination, and cost control. The outcomes of the final structural equation model underscore the significance of cost control in enhancing both cost efficiency and project success, aligning with findings from literature on similar projects. The novelty of this study lies in its application of content validity ratio, factor analysis and structural equation modelling within the context of high-speed railway projects, adding to the existing literature on infrastructure development in Indonesia. This research offers valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers involved in the planning and execution of large-scale infrastructure projects, potentially leading to enhanced cost efficiency and project success in similar projects in the future.

A Delphi study on identifying environmental risk factors in the construction of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

Abstract The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) represents a monumental initiative aimed at enhancing economic cooperation between China and Pakistan. However, the construction and operational phases of CPEC are fraught with numerous environmental risks that could impede its successful implementation. This study employs the Delphi method to systematically identify and evaluate the environmental risk factors associated with CPEC. A panel of experts from diverse fields, including environmental science, engineering, and regional planning, participated in multiple rounds of surveys to reach a consensus on the most critical environmental threats. Various studies have addressed general environmental impacts of large-scale projects, there is a gap in targeted research that systematically identifies and evaluates specific environmental risk factors associated with CPEC. This study aims to fill this gap by providing a detailed and consensus-based understanding. The findings highlight key risk areas such as carbon emission, climate change, air quality deterioration, and biodiversity loss. By providing a comprehensive risk assessment, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and project managers to develop robust mitigation strategies, ensuring the sustainable development of CPEC. The study underscores the importance of proactive environmental management in large-scale infrastructure projects within ecologically sensitive regions.

Tunnel-induced land subsidence assessment in a densely populated residential area using Sentinel-1 PS-InSAR

Land subsidence detection in residential areas based on advanced remotely sensed data is an effective technique to mitigate catastrophic disasters in time. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) in spaceborne platforms is a highly sophisticated technique to estimate ground surface subsidence with millimeter accuracy for wide-area observation. SAR is beneficial for large-scale social infrastructure project planning and monitoring in densely populated residential areas. In this study, we applied a permanent scatterer (PS) interferometric SAR (PS-InSAR)-based technique for monitoring land subsidence in a tunnel construction site in the Greater Tokyo Area to investigate tunnel-induced ground surface subsidence. Sentinel-1 repeat-pass SAR data in ascending and descending orbital directions were used for continuous observation. Consecutively estimated interferograms based on repeat-pass SAR data were generated to monitor and detect tunnel-induced land subsidence as well as confirm long-term stability along the tunnel excavation path. A bidirectional displacement of the ground area parallel to the earth’s surface in the east–west direction and perpendicular to the earth’s surface in the up–down direction was estimated at a high-phase consistency location using a PS interferometric stacking technique. The resultant data were then analyzed to detect anomalies in the ground area in the spatiotemporal domains by performing displacement time-series analysis. An area near Higashi-Tsutsujigaoka’s local administrative region in the metropolitan center of Tokyo was observed to have 15-mm subsidence and 30-mm displacement in the east–west direction during August–October 2020. The conventional level survey results in the same ground area showed 15–20-mm subsidence above the tunnel excavation path. The findings of this study offer insights into understanding land subsidence in residential environments.

Urban Wastewater Management Using BIM Method

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a method that emphasizes object-based data management, communication, and collaboration among all project participants throughout the entire lifecycle of a system. It is becoming an international standard for large-scale construction and infrastructure projects. Although BIM is gaining traction in the wastewater industry, the literature on its application in this field is still limited. This research, through expert interviews and literature review, explores the extent to which BIM has been introduced in the sewage industry and the associated opportunities and challenges. Initial projects in wastewater management using BIM include the construction and development of sewage treatment plants and special structures. Planning offices are leading the way in adopting BIM, supported by catalogs of industry-specific objects, clear definitions of responsibilities, and the potential for enhanced operation of sewage systems. Some users have already recognized the benefits of BIM and adjusted their processes accordingly. BIM’s object-oriented modeling improves the visualization of construction projects and processes, offering significant advantages in model-based plan derivation and mass determination. It also focuses on the collection, exchange, and storage of relevant data, which can benefit the entire wastewater industry. The research confirms that BIM adds value to wastewater management, especially since infrastructure is often difficult to access post-construction and knowledge about the systems is typically limited to those involved in the construction phase. However, to fully and effectively utilize BIM, further improvements are necessary. This requires intensive collaboration among project participants, software producers, and customers. The integration of BIM in wastewater management holds promise, but its successful implementation depends on overcoming current challenges and enhancing the method through collective effort. DOI: https://doi.org/10.52783/pst.928

Image processing and neural network technique for size characterization of gravel particles

Particle size is considered one of the significant characteristics used in geotechnical practices. Traditionally, sieve analysis is utilized for coarse-grained soil. However, this method could be time consuming and take much effort, especially for large scale infrastructure projects. This paper presents an efficient method for estimating gravel particle characterization utilizing image processing and artificial neural network technique (IPNN). The proposed algorithm is performed by utilizing particle boundary delineation and shape feature extraction to train a neural network model for estimating gravel size distribution curve. It is found that excellent agreement exists between the results obtained from conventional sieve analysis and neural analysis for gravel soil particles with maximum difference in passing percentages up to only 3.70%. The proposed technique shows satisfactory results for crushed stone samples with maximum difference in passing percentages about 10.90% mainly in large diameter particles. The presented technique (IPNN) could offer a promising alternative technique for material quality control process especially in large scale projects.

AFGHANISTAN'S POLITICAL CHANGE AND THE BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE: AN OVERVIEW OF THE SITUATION

This article explores the intricate relationship between Afghanistan's evolving political landscape and the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Situated at the crossroads of geopolitical complexities, Afghanistan has undergone enduring political transformations, prompting a critical review of its international role. As the nation grapples with transformative political journeys, this study scrutinizes the interplay between internal changes and the broader goals of the BRI. Initiated by China, the BRI represents an unprecedented effort in global connectivity and economic cooperation. The article outlines the dynamics of Afghanistan's political scenario and its potential impact on the BRI, revealing the complex relationship between political changes and the future trajectory of this ambitious initiative within Afghanistan's borders. Central to this exploration is the Belt and Road Initiative, a historic initiative spanning continents with the aim to reshape global trade patterns and strengthen economic cooperation. Originating from China, the BRI vision goes beyond infrastructure development, encompassing diplomatic, economic, and cultural dimensions. Understanding the goals and mechanisms of the BRI is fundamental to assessing how Afghanistan's political transformation might align with this transformative initiative. This article aims to dissect the point where Afghanistan's political trajectory converges with the aspirations of the BRI. By detailing the complex interplay between these two dynamic forces, the study explores synergies, conflicts, and potential implications for Afghanistan's geopolitical position and the broader goals of the BRI. As a scholarly endeavor, it contributes nuanced insights to the ongoing discourse on global politics, international cooperation, and the transformative potential of large-scale infrastructure projects in regions undergoing significant political change. Keywords: Afghanistan, Political Change, Belt and Road Initiative, Geopolitics, Infrastructure Development, Economic Dynamics, Regional Cooperation.

РОЛЬ И МЕСТО ЖЕНЩИН ЭТНИЧЕСКИХ СООБЩЕСТВ В КОНСТРУИРОВАНИИ ИДЕНТИЧНОСТИ В КАЗАХСТАНЕ

This article explores the intricate relationship between Afghanistan's evolving political landscape and the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Situated at the crossroads of geopolitical complexities, Afghanistan has undergone enduring political transformations, prompting a critical review of its international role. As the nation grapples with transformative political journeys, this study scrutinizes the interplay between internal changes and the broader goals of the BRI. Initiated by China, the BRI represents an unprecedented effort in global connectivity and economic cooperation. The article outlines the dynamics of Afghanistan's political scenario and its potential impact on the BRI, revealing the complex relationship between political changes and the future trajectory of this ambitious initiative within Afghanistan's borders. Central to this exploration is the Belt and Road Initiative, a historic initiative spanning continents with the aim to reshape global trade patterns and strengthen economic cooperation. Originating from China, the BRI vision goes beyond infrastructure development, encompassing diplomatic, economic, and cultural dimensions. Understanding the goals and mechanisms of the BRI is fundamental to assessing how Afghanistan's political transformation might align with this transformative initiative. This article aims to dissect the point where Afghanistan's political trajectory converges with the aspirations of the BRI. By detailing the complex interplay between these two dynamic forces, the study explores synergies, conflicts, and potential implications for Afghanistan's geopolitical position and the broader goals of the BRI. As a scholarly endeavor, it contributes nuanced insights to the ongoing discourse on global politics, international cooperation, and the transformative potential of large-scale infrastructure projects in regions undergoing significant political change. Keywords: Afghanistan, Political Change, Belt and Road Initiative, Geopolitics, Infrastructure Development, Economic Dynamics, Regional Cooperation.

АНАЛИЗ ПОЛИТИК ВЗАИМОДЕЙСТВИЯ С ДИАСПОРОЙ ЗА РУБЕЖОМ: ОПЫТ ДЛЯ КАЗАХСТАНА

Abstract. This article explores the intricate relationship between Afghanistan's evolving political landscape and the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Situated at the crossroads of geopolitical complexities, Afghanistan has undergone enduring political transformations, prompting a critical review of its international role. As the nation grapples with transformative political journeys, this study scrutinizes the interplay between internal changes and the broader goals of the BRI. Initiated by China, the BRI represents an unprecedented effort in global connectivity and economic cooperation. The article outlines the dynamics of Afghanistan's political scenario and its potential impact on the BRI, revealing the complex relationship between political changes and the future trajectory of this ambitious initiative within Afghanistan's borders. Central to this exploration is the Belt and Road Initiative, a historic initiative spanning continents with the aim to reshape global trade patterns and strengthen economic cooperation. Originating from China, the BRI vision goes beyond infrastructure development, encompassing diplomatic, economic, and cultural dimensions. Understanding the goals and mechanisms of the BRI is fundamental to assessing how Afghanistan's political transformation might align with this transformative initiative. This article aims to dissect the point where Afghanistan's political trajectory converges with the aspirations of the BRI. By detailing the complex interplay between these two dynamic forces, the study explores synergies, conflicts, and potential implications for Afghanistan's geopolitical position and the broader goals of the BRI. As a scholarly endeavor, it contributes nuanced insights to the ongoing discourse on global politics, international cooperation, and the transformative potential of large-scale infrastructure projects in regions undergoing significant political change. Keywords: Afghanistan, Political Change, Belt and Road Initiative, Geopolitics, Infrastructure Development, Economic Dynamics, Regional Cooperation.

Dams, dams and more dams: Issues in evaluating business cases for dam expansion in Australia

Abstract Conventional interventions for mitigating flood risk and increasing water security often focus on large-scale engineering solutions despite evidence of significant cost overruns and negative environmental impacts. This study is an example of participatory research in water economics, motivated (and requested) by concerns from downstream communities and Indigenous stakeholders that impacts of a proposed dam upgrade and storage increase were not adequately considered. We reviewed the preliminary benefit-cost analysis (BCA) of the proposed AUD$2.1 billion investment to expand the Wyangala Dam in Australia and conducted a new BCA incorporating downstream community perspectives. The original economic analysis favoured the proposed investment, but it underestimated costs and overestimated benefits. Our economic analysis was complemented with a qualitative analysis of downstream community perspectives, plus a quantitative analysis indicating that project costs were underestimated by a minimum of 116%. In comparison, benefits were overestimated by 56%. Neglecting the potential impact of climate change also severely overestimated the original benefit-cost ratio. Based on our calculations, expanding the dam was unlikely to yield a net social benefit. In 2023, a new government decided the dam expansion was too expensive. We recommend policymakers prioritise independent evaluations and community engagement for BCAs on large-scale water infrastructure projects to ensure equitable investment decisions that maximise social welfare and adequate environmental assessment.

Maturing the design: challenges in maturing a first of a kind fusion power plant.

The design, delivery and operation of a large-scale infrastructure project are challenging at best. For the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) prototype powerplant (SPP), the challenges increased dramatically. In addition to being a large-scale infrastructure project, it is a cutting edge, first of a kind (FOAK) technology demonstrator. The design teams are working in a volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous environment, where technology is constantly emerging, maturing and changing. STEP will be unlike any power plant ever built and requires the development of new technologies and capabilities, but also a novel approach to planning and maturing the design. By taking a holistic view of the engineering life cycle from the start, the programme will be better positioned to achieve an SPP that is fit for purpose and can be used to show a path to ultimate commercial viability for subsequent power plants. This paper will review the key challenges in maturing a FOAK fusion power plant and look in depth at how the STEP team are maturing the required capabilities and planning to ensure successful delivery of the SPP. This article is part of the theme issue 'Delivering Fusion Energy - The Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP)'.

Evaluation of social risks in large-scale infrastructure projects in India – a comparative study using relational and traditional approaches

Large-scale infrastructure projects (LSIPs) are characterized by huge costs, high complexity, a high propensity for risks, and a long-lasting impact on the environment and society. While past researchers have extensively studied project risk and associated issues, much less is explored about social risks, a particular category of risks rooted in the social contexts of the LSIPs. The gap is starker in the context of developing countries. To address this gap in knowledge, a network analysis approach is used to explore various social risks and their interdependencies in LSIPs in India. Data was collected from 23 risk management experts working in Indian LSIPs through a matrix-based questionnaire and subsequent interviews. A Social network analysis (SNA) of the social risk interactions identified labor unrest, environmental pollution, and public resistance as the most critical in LSIPs. The SNA-based risk criticality scores were also compared with the traditional probability-impact-based risk perception scores, and divergence of the results was observed. The study concludes by suggesting an actionable social-risk mitigation framework. The findings provide insights on the social risk interaction patterns and emphasize the importance of taking a relational perspective in conjunction with the traditional probability-impact-based view while assessing such risks in LSIPs.

Innovations in Project Monitoring Tools for Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects

Innovations in project monitoring tools are paramount for the effective execution of large-scale infrastructure projects. This study aims to explore the transformative role of these tools in enhancing project performance, accuracy, and efficiency. The research employs a comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies, and the latest advancements in project monitoring practices. The study highlights that integrating digital tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) significantly improves project coordination and real-time decision-making. Automated progress monitoring technologies reduce reliance on manual data entry, enhancing the accuracy of project assessments. Additionally, sensor-based monitoring techniques enable predictive maintenance strategies, extending the lifespan of aging infrastructure. The findings underscore the importance of interoperability among digital tools and the need for robust monitoring models capable of adapting to the dynamic nature of infrastructure projects. Web-based applications and systems engineering principles further enhance the efficacy of project monitoring by providing real-time data and facilitating efficient communication among stakeholders. In conclusion, the integration of innovative project monitoring tools is pivotal for the successful execution and management of large-scale infrastructure projects. These technologies not only enhance project performance and reduce risks but also ensure sustainable and long-term infrastructure development. The study recommends continued research and investment in advanced monitoring systems to address existing challenges and unlock new opportunities for improving project outcomes. Embracing these innovations will be crucial for the construction industry to meet future demands and achieve higher standards of efficiency and sustainability. Keywords: Building Information Modeling (BIM), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Automated Progress Monitoring, Predictive Maintenance, Project Performance Optimization.

Stability Evaluation of Lanedada Twin Tunnel in KTFT

The construction of underground tunnels, particularly in roadway systems, is a highly complicated and demanding process, necessitating careful consideration of geological variability, environmental impact, and safety concerns. This thesis emphasizes the critical importance of determining the optimal separation between twin tunnels, balancing the need for environmental conservation, economic efficiency, and structural stability. The study particularly focuses on the Kathmandu Terai/Madhesh Fasttrack (KTFT), a major expressway project in Nepal, which includes twin tunnels at three different sites under varying geological conditions. A detailed case study is conducted on the Lanedada Twin Tunnel, spanning 1.430 kilometers through the Siwalik Hill. Various methodologies, including empirical, analytical, and numerical approaches, are employed to assess tunnel stability. The findings reveal discrepancies in predictions of tunnel squeezing, with Singh et al.'s method indicating no squeezing potential, while Goel et al.'s method identifies squeezing in half of the evaluated sections. Additionally, the approaches by Hoek and Marino (2000) and Shrestha and Panthi (2015) are applied to estimate tunnel deformation at six specific locations. An analysis of rock support systems using the Rock Massm Rating (RMR) classification and the Q system is presented. Special attention is given to the section at 34+160, where the RS2 software is utilized to simulate varying pillar widths between the twin tunnels, allowing for a comparative analysis of different scenarios. This research aims to contribute to the understanding and implementation of safer, more feasible twin tunnel constructions, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of large-scale infrastructure projects.

Business Models Used in Smart Cities—Theoretical Approach with Examples of Smart Cities

This paper examines business model implementations in three leading European smart cities: London, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Through a systematic literature review and comparative analysis, the study identifies and analyzes various business models employed in these urban contexts. The findings reveal a diverse array of models, including public–private partnerships, build–operate–transfer arrangements, performance-based contracts, community-centric models, innovation hubs, revenue-sharing models, outcome-based financing, and asset monetization strategies. Each city leverages a unique combination of these models to address its specific urban challenges and priorities. The study highlights the role of PPPs in large-scale infrastructure projects, BOT arrangements in transportation solutions, and performance-based contracts in driving efficiency and accountability. It also explores the benefits of community-centric models, innovation hubs, revenue-sharing models, outcome-based financing, and asset monetization strategies in enhancing the sustainability, efficiency, and livability of smart cities. The paper offers valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and researchers seeking to advance smart city development worldwide.

Employment generation potentials in the implementation of a rural drinking water supply program: evidence from India's Jal Jeevan Mission

ABSTRACT Policymakers in India are finding it challenging to generate adequate employment to meet the requirements of growing population. An avenue consistently used is to invest in large-scale public infrastructure projects. In 2019, the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was launched with the aim of providing potable drinking water to every rural household in India. Underscoring the large investments in infrastructure development, the mission holds significant potential to create employment. The evidence base of studies assessing the effect of rural development programs on employment was weak. Against this backdrop, we assessed the employment generation potential of JJM at various phases of its implementation. We utilized secondary and scheme-level primary data across states of India and used the input-output model and ratio method to assess employment prospects. Our results suggest that JJM has the potential to generate an average of 5.99 million person-year of direct and 22.25 million person-year of indirect employment during the construction phase, and 1.11 million person-year of additional direct employment annually during the maintenance phase. Our study highlights the spillover effects of public investments in the form of employment generation and indicates that the impact of JJM is likely to be substantial once the program is complete and operational.

Are public transit investments based on accurate forecasts? An analysis of the improving trend of transit ridership forecasts in the United States

Historically, forecasts of travel demand on public transit infrastructures have been found to be optimistically biased. However, there has been a lack of data available for statistically significant analysis of factors affecting the accuracy. This paper analyzes the overall trend of transit ridership forecast accuracy in the US and contextualizes it with ridership trends based on the largest yet database of 164 large-scale transit infrastructure projects in the US. We find that transit ridership is about 24.6 % lower than forecast on average with about 70 % of the projects over-predicting ridership. Forecast accuracy varies by mode, service area characteristics, familiarity with transit, ramp up period, and time span. The accuracy has been getting better over the years, particularly after 2000 with the introduction of new analytical and evaluation tools as part of the Capital Investment Grants program. Projects that have been forecasted since 2000 have average ridership about 22 % lower than forecast, compared to about 52 % lower from pre-2000. The steadily improving accuracy, however, is offset by the unexpected decline in transit ridership since 2012. Advent of ride-hailing services and improved socio-economic trends that support auto-oriented cities have prompted this decline in ridership and have affected their forecasts as well. Despite the improving trend, we find that there remains substantial deviation in the outcomes from their forecasts. This points to the need of better scrutiny of model inputs and specifications and how they interact with the built environment to unearth the underlying reasons for inaccuracy. Planners and policymakers may make use of our results to advocate for considering the uncertainty around forecasts for any project and funding decision.

Indigenous rights, social media and protest movements in Sápmi

AbstractFollowing the rush to minerals that would enable the shift towards green economies, the Sámi homeland is quickly becoming a crucible for the rising tensions surrounding the potential for new mining projects and large-scale infrastructure projects. The roots of these conflicts date back to the colonization of the north and continue in the present with the ongoing fight to maintain the Sámi heritage, language and culture, and increasingly to gain ownership of their lands. What initially began as activism within the legal system has, on occasions, transformed into outright protests. Social media increasingly plays a key role in disseminating the message of Indigenous protest among the protesters themselves and feeding into the national and international mainstream media. This shift occurs simultaneously with the construction of a dual narrative, constituted of both land-use protest and intensified demands for Indigenous rights, including, first and foremost, the right to self-determination. Drawing from Social media theory literature and the concepts of political opportunity structures (POS) and legal opportunity structures (LOS), this study argues that social media is one of the most essential tools used by Sámi activists to raise awareness about issue-based protests as well as to communicate demands for the right to self-determination when legal and political opportunity structures are not enough to support the cause. The power of social media lies in its accessibility, immediacy and visuality, which is illustrated in the article via specific examples of mining and railway construction protests in Finland and Sweden. Social media does not replace older tools, such as international human rights litigation, but their use can complement existing strategies for defending and advancing Indigenous rights.

NAVIGATING CHANGE: INVESTIGATING THE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS OF PANAMA CANAL EXPANSION

The expansion of the Panama Canal, completed in 2016 with the introduction of the Third Set of Locks, represents a significant milestone in global maritime infrastructure. This original article, titled "Navigating Change: Investigating the Economic, Social, and Environmental Implications of Panama Canal Expansion," provides a comprehensive analysis of the far-reaching impacts associated with the monumental project. The study examines the economic analysis, explores changes in shipping costs, shifts in global trade patterns, and the contribution of the expanded canal to Panama’s national revenue. It evaluates the social consequences, including the effects on local communities, workforce dynamics, and regional development initiatives. Furthermore, environmental ramifications, focusing on the increased water usage, potential for pollution, and ecosystem disruptions due to larger vessel traffic. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this research paper presents a nuanced understanding of the expansion's impacts. The findings highlight the complexities and interdependencies of economic, social, and environmental factors, offering valuable insights into the broader implications of large-scale infrastructure projects. This study aims to inform policymakers, industry stakeholders, and academics about the sustainable development challenges and opportunities posed by the expanded Panama Canal, contributing to the discourse on balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship and social equity.

Economic and Social Benefits and Challenges in the Infrastructure Projects Implementation in a Component City in Negros Occidental

Implementation of infrastructure projects is a critical aspect of achieving sustainable development, especially in archipelagic countries like the Philippines. Hence, this study determined the extent of economic benefits (employment, income, and food security) and social benefits (health, education, safety, security, and environmental protection) from infrastructure projects. It also compared the differences in benefits when communities are grouped based on sectoral divisions and geographical locations. Additionally, the study explored challenges faced by implementers. The research design was descriptive-comparative, with 440 respondents selected through stratified random sampling. A researcher-made questionnaire, validated and reliability tested using Lawshe’s content validation ratio and Cronbach’s alpha method, assessed the economic and social benefits. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests (Kruskal Wallis). Overall, the economic benefits received a very high rating, with income being the highest-rated attribute. Social benefits were also highly rated, with environmental protection receiving the highest score. Notably, the differences were observed based on geographical location and sectoral groups. Despite challenges, the study suggests that local government units can effectively manage large-scale infrastructure projects, contributing to inclusive and sustainable industrialization. The emphasis on environmental protection underscores the growing concern for climate change resilience.

Durability of alkali-activated fly ash-slag concrete- state of art

India ranks among the foremost global producers and consumers of cement, and the cement industry contributes significantly to carbon emissions. Alkali-activated materials have gained significant attention as a sustainable alternative to Portland cement, offering the potential to mitigate carbon dioxide emissions and promote effective recycling of waste materials. Fly ash (FA) and Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) are preferred raw materials for Alkali-activated concrete (AAC) owing to their effective repurposing of waste, widespread accessibility, advantageous chemical composition, and performance attributes. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state-of-the-art on the durability aspects of fly ash/slag-based AAC. The paper explores the unique characteristics of FA/GGBS-based AAC, emphasizing their potential to enhance the durability of concrete structures. Insights into the material behaviour under various environmental exposures, including aggressive chemical environments and freeze–thaw cycles, are presented. Furthermore, the article addresses both the obstacles and prospects associated with implementing fly ash/slag-based AAC as a potential construction material suitable for large-scale infrastructure projects. This overview is designed to direct future research efforts and provide practitioners with insights into the potential of FA/GGBS-based AAC for ensuring the prolonged durability of concrete structures.