Mauritius Sets 5 New Construction Standards for Resilient Houses

Mauritius is set to improve the safety and durability of its housing with new minimum construction standards. National Infrastructure Minister Govindranath Gunness emphasized the importance of these guidelines, which align with international best practices, during a consultation workshop held on Thursday, 15th May. The event was organized by the Construction Industry Authority.

The workshop was also attended by Avinash Shree Mojee, chair of the Construction Industry Authority, and acting head Trilock Bhunjun.

Industry professionals gathered to discuss ways to enhance the quality of residential buildings, ensuring they meet the changing needs of communities, technological advances, and sustainable development goals.

Minister Gunness praised the Authority for drafting these minimum standards, describing them as practical and adaptable.

He stressed that such requirements are essential to ensure every family lives in a structurally sound, disaster-resistant home built according to health, hygiene, and fire safety norms.

He said these standards will help improve sector professionalism and quality, while also strengthening the country’s resilience and serving as a reference for local authorities.

Addressing sector challenges, such as a shortage of skilled workers, rising material costs, and climate change impacts, Minister Gunness reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support the industry through initiatives in the 2025-2029 National Development Program.

These include investments in public infrastructure, incentives for green and climate-resilient construction, and the adoption of innovative technologies.

The Minister announced that his department will work closely with the Construction Industry Authority and other agencies to develop awareness campaigns and training programs.

The goal is to ensure these standards are understood, adopted, and enforced across the sector.

Meanwhile, Mojee highlighted key initiatives by the Construction Industry Authority, including the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) to boost sector efficiency.

He also revealed the appointment of a consultant to lay the groundwork for this new approach.

Additionally, Mojee mentioned the implementation of a national building code and the drafting of a law to secure payments, both aimed at fostering fairness within the industry.

Source: Le Mauricien