CEO Insights Magazine

When it comes to designing and constructing the structures of the future, Building Information Modelling(BIM) is much more than just a tool. BIM exceeds the limits of paper designs by constructing a physical model of the conceptualized design. A BIM model is a realistic representation of a structure, bridge or other infrastructure design, providing an exact preview of the final product.To address the challenges encountered during real construction, the plans drawn out on paper often need modification. On the other side, the BIM technology used to produce digital designs gives builders a far more in-depth look at how to implement the design in reality. Given these unique advantages, Kunal Kakria established Heritage India to bridge the gap between scientific discipline and practical application in the commercial world.

Kunal is an expert in AutoCAD, Revit, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and HIM. He also has extensive experience in the field of civil engineering and has a documented history of working in the 3D modelling and construction business.

Below is an excerpt of Kunal’s exclusive interaction with CEO Insights magazine.

Throw some light on your professional background and experience. What inspired you to establish Heritage India and what drives you today?
In the field of civil engineering, I graduated with distinction. My background is in both Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, and I have worked on several cross-discipline projects and was a research student in Malaysia, Sri Lanka, France and Italy.

Furthermore, Heritage India was formed to fill the gap that existed between new technologies and research by applying this knowledge to the construction industry. Our mission is to help with both new building construction and the maintenance and restoration of historic buildings through the use of analytical and Laboratory Methods instead of testing.

Could you tell us about the unique experiences Vellore Institute of Technology offers and what did you learn from the campus beyond academics?
VIT is a research oriented institution with vast chances to study and grow, and it contributes to the total development of its students. I learnt a lot about establishing and growing a company when I was at VIT. In addition, I was able to visit Malaysia for research collaborations with Universiti Putra Malaysia.

As a bonus, I have experience working on a joint initiative between the governments of Sri Lanka and India to improve the Safety and Lightning Protection Systems for Sri Lanka's Historic Buildings. Also gained knowledge on how to introduce oneself to new people, present one's views, and otherwise make one's presence felt.

How would you define Heritage India as an organization and its position in the market? What is the unique proposition that your organization offers to clients?
Heritage India is now well acclaimed as an organization at the forefront of introducing novel approaches and advanced tools to the building trade. We are an ISO-certified establishment that specializes in 3D modelling, architectural drawings and the restoration of historical buildings. In addition, we help close the gap that exists between the scientific community and the business world.

There are not many organizations in India that can match our comprehensive consulting for Heritage Monuments and Modern Constructions, from design to material selection to asset management. Most importantly through the collaboration of specialists from several fields, we can provide timely and affordable solution to any problem.

Elaborate on the technology framework built within the company’s solutions and which are the latest technology trends that the company is planning to adopt.
Our work in lightning protection for buildings is based on a technological framework that merges disciplines within engineering.In addition to our

electrical engineering services, we also provide civil engineering services such as structural damage assessment member stability analysis, vibration analysis, and damping.

Heritage India also provides civil engineering and software engineering services for accurate visualizations, interactive 3D models, and thorough evaluations of construction projects.In both historic and contemporary structures, we provide individualized and custom service. Also, we use BIM and Heritage BIM standards, both of which have national and worldwide representation. Some of the newest innovations in technology that we want to use are 3D modelling, BIM for all projects, virtual reality (VR), and 3D printing for construction.

What are the major projects that you have undertaken till now? How did you overcome the challenges associated with them and what did you learn from them?
One of the four holiest places in Hinduism is the Dwaraka group of temples and our business mapped and analysed them for damage faults, and stability. And the historic Mahatama Gandhi House in Porbandar was scanned and mapped to identify any problems or damage.

We have built the design, 3D Model, and virtual tour of the Kareemganj Medical College in Assam, as well as lightning protection devices for monuments in Sri Lanka and Goa. In all these projects, with some time and perseverance, we were able to overcome the obstacles by evaluating sensitivity evaluation in addition to visualization and metrology techniques.

In light of your strong experience within the industry, what advice would you give to budding industry leaders?
New leaders in the construction business should focus on their strengths, seek out advice from established figures in the field and take calculated risks to keep up with the industry's rapid pace of change..

Kunal Kakria, Founder, Heritage India
Kunal completed his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Vellore Institute of Technology. He is an enthusiastic engineer with experience in 3D modeling and the construction sector. Heritage India was founded by Kunal in 2022 to modernize the Indian construction business using his knowledge of AutoCAD, Revit, Building Information Modelling (BIM)and HIM.