Assessment of delays and cost overruns during construction projects in Pakistan

Abstract

Construction projects are commonly delayed due to price escalation of building materials and faulty management in Pakistan. This research paper focused on the main reasons of delay and cost overruns. This research activity was exclusively assessed through questionnaire survey, interviews, field visits and discussion to the concerned authorities. A preplanned survey was conducted through a questionnaire for assessment and evaluation of the important factors those may effect construction delays and cost overruns. Approximately, twenty six numbers of factors were selected initially for the proper assessment of most critical factors. The respondents were selected from construction hub mainly client, contractor and consultant firms. At the same time, the opinion of general public and other stakeholders were also assessed while considering the indigenous trends. The results accomplished from survey revealed that the major causes of delays and cost overruns during construction projects are the escalation of the materials prices and discontinuity of funds. According to the group of contractors escalation of prices is the significant factor for delays. The consultants are blaming the poor supervision and mismanagement by contractors. The overall ranking analysis are indicating that Escalation of material prices, inadequate control procedure, shortage of technical persons, delays in work approval and shortage of materials, plant/equipment are most critical factors, those are responsible for construction delays and cost overruns in Pakistan.