Forensic Engineering: Need for Structural Failure Investigation in India- A Review


Authors : Amaan Amir; Yogesh Kumar; Ravi Kumar

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 1 - January


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/s9a8pd4p

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/ywdj9jbd

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jan1108

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Abstract : Failures in buildings are frequent occurrences. Poor construction practices, coupled with inadequate material handling, can result in failures and defects within structures, such as building collapses, which may lead to significant losses in resources, time, and finances, as well as endanger lives. Therefore, to comprehend the factors contributing to building collapses, it is essential to examine forensic engineering and legal investigations related to structural failures, aiming to reduce such incidents. Forensic engineering involves the analysis of materials, products, structures, or components that fail or do not function as intended, resulting in damage to public safety and property. Currently, in foreign countries, forensic engineering is evolving into a specialized field for professional practitioners who can assess structural failures and identify responsible parties. In contrast, India is witnessing an increasing demand for forensic engineering, especially within the industrial sector, as the complexity of infrastructure projects and manufacturing processes requires precise analysis of accidents and failures. However, it still encounters challenges such as a lack of standardized practices, qualified professionals, and sufficient infrastructure to fully harness its potential. This study addresses this gap and outlines the necessary steps to enhance awareness of forensic engineering, reduce the likelihood of structural failures, and identify and punish the parties that are responsible.

Keywords : Forensic Engineering, Structural Failures, Building Collapse, Legal Investigation.

References :

  1. Ratay, R. T. (2017). An Overview of Forensic Structural Engineering. Structural Engineering International, 27(3), 338–343. https://doi.org/10.2749/101686617X14881932437176
  2. FE 4—Lewis, P.R., Reynolds, K., Colin Gagg, , & Gagg, C. (2003). Forensic Materials Engineering: Case Studies (1st ed.). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9780203484531
  3. Dutta Gupta S. Functions of forensic engineering investigator in India. Int J Sci Res Eng Dev 2020; 3(5): 114–119.
  4. Suryawanshi, G.A., Pore, S.M. (2026). A Review of Forensic Structural Engineering in India. In: Chourasia, A., Kumari, M., Chidambaram, R.S., Pal, S. (eds) Futuristic Trends in Structural Engineering. StructE NatCon 2024. Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering, vol 716. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-96-9712-0_23
  5. Ganesh A. Suryawanshi & Sachin M. Pore. 2026. Futuristic Trends in Structural Engineering. Futuristic Trends in Structural Engineering 337 350 .
  6. Noon, R.K. (2000). Forensic Engineering Investigation (1st ed.). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781420041415
  7. Levine, H., Tennant, D. Lawver, D., Levy, M. and Abboud, N. (2003), “Simplified and Advanced Methodology for Determining the Response of Buildings to Aircraft Impact,” ASCE 2003 Structures Congress, Designing and Protecting Structures from Terrorist Attacks, May 29-June 1, 2003, Seattle, WA
  8. Lie, T.T. (1992), Structural Fire protection, ASCE Manuals and Reports on Engineering Practice No. 78, American Society of Civil Engineers, New York.
  9. Ratay RT (2012), “Briefing: Education to prepare for the practice of forensic engineering”. Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers – Forensic Engineering, Vol. 165 No. 3 pp. 111–113, doi: https://doi.org/10.1680/feng.12.00011
  10. Heywood, R. J. (2010). Responding to Failure: An Introduction to Forensic Structural Engineering. Australian Journal of Structural Engineering11(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1080/13287982.2010.11465051

Failures in buildings are frequent occurrences. Poor construction practices, coupled with inadequate material handling, can result in failures and defects within structures, such as building collapses, which may lead to significant losses in resources, time, and finances, as well as endanger lives. Therefore, to comprehend the factors contributing to building collapses, it is essential to examine forensic engineering and legal investigations related to structural failures, aiming to reduce such incidents. Forensic engineering involves the analysis of materials, products, structures, or components that fail or do not function as intended, resulting in damage to public safety and property. Currently, in foreign countries, forensic engineering is evolving into a specialized field for professional practitioners who can assess structural failures and identify responsible parties. In contrast, India is witnessing an increasing demand for forensic engineering, especially within the industrial sector, as the complexity of infrastructure projects and manufacturing processes requires precise analysis of accidents and failures. However, it still encounters challenges such as a lack of standardized practices, qualified professionals, and sufficient infrastructure to fully harness its potential. This study addresses this gap and outlines the necessary steps to enhance awareness of forensic engineering, reduce the likelihood of structural failures, and identify and punish the parties that are responsible.

Keywords : Forensic Engineering, Structural Failures, Building Collapse, Legal Investigation.

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