Published Paper Details:

The rapid expansion of the construction industry in developing nations like India has been significantly driven by the influx of migrant workers. These workers, often moving from rural or economically backward regions, play a vital role in shaping urban landscapes by contributing their labor to residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Migrant labor forms a substantial portion of the workforce in the construction sector, which is one of the largest employment generators in the country. However, this reliance brings forth several challenges and impacts that affect not only the execution of construction projects but also the broader labor market and industry development. Migrant workers influence construction timelines, labor costs, and the quality of work. Their seasonal migration patterns can lead to labor shortages or surpluses, impacting project continuity and productivity. In the labor market, migration alters wage structures, creates informal employment conditions, and often results in the exploitation of unskilled labor. Furthermore, the development of the construction industry is deeply tied to the availability and management of this mobile workforce. Issues such as lack of social security, inadequate housing, poor working conditions, and limited access to healthcare and education for migrants pose challenges for inclusive and sustainable industry growth. This paper provides a focused overview of the impact of migrant workers on various facets of the construction sector. It highlights key trends, challenges, and opportunities while incorporating real-life case studies like the Delhi Metro and Mumbai's labor housing policies to understand the ground-level realities. The paper aims to inform planners, policymakers, and stakeholders about the need for structured labor management, improved living conditions, and reforms that ensure long- term industry resilience and equitable growth.