As part of the field study course, a visit was conducted to the Dhaka Tower construction site on 28 July 2025, located in Hatirjheel, Dhaka. Students were accompanied by the course teachers Tanzila Samad Choudhury, Rigu Sarker, S.M.Arafat Hossain, Nafisa Bari and Ishrat Momtaz Badhan, all Assistant Professors of Department of Architecture, AUST. The objective of the visit was to observe and analyze the ongoing substructure works, including excavation, piling, and foundation systems. This visit aimed to bridge theoretical understanding with real-world application, allowing students to evaluate construction practices in the context of high-rise development in an urban water- adjacent site.

During the site inspection, the team observed ongoing pile driving operations, indicating the use of deep foundation systems suitable for the geotechnical conditions of the Hatirjheel basin. Site engineers explained that cast-in-situ bored piles were being used due to the soft alluvial soil and high-water table in the area. Reinforcement cage preparation, concrete pouring techniques, and safety protocols around pile caps and foundation trenches were also closely examined, giving valuable insights into large-scale substructure execution.

The visit provided students with practical exposure to the challenges of substructure work in a constrained urban site with complex soil and hydrological conditions. It highlighted the importance of accurate soil investigation, water management during excavation and structural load transfer design. The engagement with on-site professionals enriched the learning experience, offering context to theoretical concepts covered in class, such as bearing capacity, settlement control, and subsoil exploration. Overall, it was an interactive learning session for the students.