Waste in Indian Construction: What Is Actually Measured

Almost every wastage figure in circulation in Indian construction is an allowance printed in a rate analysis, not a measurement of waste that occurred. This report separates the two: it sets out what CPWD's Analysis of Rates actually prints, what the construction and demolition waste record does and does not contain, and what the Environment (Construction and Demolition) Waste Management Rules, 2025 — in force from 1 April 2026 — will and will not cause to be counted. The short answer is that India counts recycling plants and their installed capacity reliably, estimates waste generation very poorly, and does not measure rework or idle time at all.

Part of AECS Research Global's publications programme — drawing on ARG's work across cost management, EPC advisory and integrated project delivery. Download the full report below.