Everest Connect Hyderabad - A Thought Leadership Forum for PEB Industry

The construction landscape is evolving, with Pre-Engineered Buildings (PEBs) emerging as a game-changer in infrastructure development. To address the industry's pressing challenges and explore innovative solutions, Everest Steel Building Solutions hosted Everest Connect on March 21, 2025, at Le Meridien, Hyderabad.

Co-powered by AM/NS India and Tata BlueScope Steel, the event provided a platform for industry experts to deliberate on the topic: Resolving Design Challenges & Embracing Cutting-edge Advancements in Pre-Engineered Buildings. The panel discussion featured renowned professionals, including: E. Suresh Raj (Tata BlueScope Steel), V. Sridhar Reddy (Sri Harsha Consulting Engineers Pvt Ltd), VVSK Raju (NCC Ltd), Satyanarayana Illindra (Satya Illindra Engineers), Suneel Voditel (Techture Structures Pvt Ltd), and Mahendrakumar Madhavan (Professor, IIT Hyderabad).

The discussion provided deep insight into overcoming design bottlenecks and leveraging advanced methodologies in PEB construction. Here are the key takeaways from the session:

Standardization & documentation in PEB design

Suneel Voditel emphasized the importance of documenting design specifications such as warehouse size, height, shutter placements, fire safety norms, and exit requirements. He highlighted the need for a comprehensive specification document to ensure alignment between clients, consultants, and PEB vendors. Standardized documentation would bring all stakeholders onto a common platform, ensuring consistency in execution.

Challenges in EPC contracts & structural design compliance

VVSK Raju shared challenges faced in Haryana, where projects are governed by Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contracts that often lack detailed specifications. He pointed out that tenders typically mention broad IGS scope but do not specify design standards, leading to conflicts in execution. Many tenders specify International Engineering Standards (IES) without clarity on whether American or compact designs should be followed, impacting project costs significantly.

Complexity in procurement & vendor management

From a procurement perspective, Avinash Gore stressed the complexity of managing multiple vendors, each offering varying specifications. He highlighted the importance of aligning procurement strategies with standardized specifications to mitigate variations in materials and costs.

Consultant’s role in ensuring robust PEB design

Satyanarayana Illindra underscored the need for consultants to take proactive ownership of design robustness. He argued that consultants should not be entirely dependent on vendors and must define minimum design sections to prevent conflicts over structural elements post-installation.

The role of DBR in government infrastructure projects

E. Suresh Raj shared insights from government infrastructure projects, where pre-tender meetings with contractors helped define clear design specifications. He advocated for a Design Basis Report (DBR) to be attached to tender documents, ensuring transparency in specifications, load conditions, and execution requirements.

EPC vs RCC – Selecting the right structural solution

V. Sridhar Reddy discussed the limitations of RCC structures beyond 50 to 60 meters in span. He shared a case study of a 68-meter clear span steel structure, demonstrating how steel is the only viable option for such projects. He emphasized that each project has unique structural requirements, and PEB is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

The sustainability edge: Why steel is the future

Mahendrakumar Madhavan emphasized the sustainability benefits of steel, highlighting its recyclability, corrosion resistance, and adaptability for future modifications. He asserted that for projects with tight timelines, steel remains the preferred material due to its rapid erection capabilities and long-term resale value.

Conclusion

Everest Connect Hyderabad successfully brought together industry leaders to deliberate on the future of PEBs in India. The discussion underscored the importance of standardized design practices, strategic procurement, and innovative engineering solutions in shaping the next phase of the industry.

By fostering such industry dialogues, Everest Steel Building Solutions reaffirms its commitment to advancing the PEB sector with quality, trust, and timely delivery.