Pune Hosts CONSTRO 2026, Highlighting Smart, Sustainable and Technology-Driven Construction

Pune: Stressing the urgent need to integrate research and innovation into India’s fast-growing construction sector, CREDAI National vice-president Er. Ranjeet Naiknavare stated on Tuesday that civil engineering graduates must move beyond routine professional practice and actively contribute to the nation’s innovation-driven development.

Naiknavare was speaking at the inauguration of CONSTRO 2026, the 20th series of a four-day international construction exhibition jointly organised by the Pune Construction Engineering Research Foundation (PCERF), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, at the International Exhibition & Convention Centre, Moshi. The exhibition will continue till January 11, 2026.

“After entering the profession, many engineers limit themselves to jobs or business and stop pursuing knowledge. While the construction sector is expanding rapidly, innovation remains limited. Students and professionals must focus on research and innovation alongside their careers to give new dimensions to the industry,” Naiknavare said.

Highlighting the relevance of industry platforms like CONSTRO, he added that such exhibitions help professionals understand emerging technologies, evolving materials, and global best practices. Over 400 exhibitors are participating, showcasing advanced machinery, construction materials, technologies, and student-led innovations.

Addressing the gathering, Ar. Abhay Purohit, President of the Council of Architecture, said that the construction and architecture sectors are central to India’s economic growth, but they must balance sustainability, technology, and professional ethics. He emphasised the use of artificial intelligence, digital design tools, and advanced building materials to improve project efficiency and quality, while calling for continuous learning and social responsibility among professionals.

A souvenir and official diary of CONSTRO 2026 were released on the occasion.

Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari, in a video message, urged the industry to prioritise modern technology, quality materials, and environmentally sustainable construction practices. He stressed that innovation can significantly reduce costs, improve durability, and enhance efficiency in infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, smart cities, and logistics hubs.

CONSTRO chairman Er. Jaideep Raje said the exhibition offers a comprehensive view of the construction ecosystem, bringing together machinery, materials, methods, advanced technologies, and innovation under one platform. Thousands of professionals, students, and stakeholders are expected to visit the expo over four days.