As the US/Israel – Iran war enters second month, there are fears of negative consequences on India’s construction sector primarily through rising energy prices and supply chain disruptions. However, here is an optimist’s view regarding the potential for positive changes in the long run.

It is likely to encourage more local sourcing of materials like cement, steel, and fittings. This may accelerate initiatives like Make in India and result in more investments in the manufacturing sector. Most of these investments are bound to begin with constructing the factories!

Like the search for an alternative to LPG, we may be encouraged to look for energy efficient methods and less energy intensive materials.

To counter economic uncertainty, the government may increase infrastructure investment (roads, railways, housing) which will spillover into the real estate sector.

While it may sound perverse [to benefit from pain of others], the wars will end sooner than later, and all countries will have to invest in rebuilding. Indian companies may be well positioned to participate in the ensuing construction boom.

However, the damage to mother earth and human suffering is simply too much and we wish for the wars to end ASAP.