NIT Srinagar hosts Capacity Building Workshop on “Earthquake Risk Reduction in J&K”

Srinagar : The Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, in collaboration with Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR) J&K, and Indian Geotechnical Society (IGS) Srinagar Chapter, organized a day-long Capacity Building Workshop on “Earthquake Risk Reduction in J&K” on Friday.
The event, held under the patronage of Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, Director of NIT Srinagar, featured prominent figures including Prof. Roohi Naaz, Dean Research and Consultancy, and other esteemed guests from the government and academia. The workshop focused on the critical need for earthquake-resistant design in masonry and RCC structures, emphasizing the roles of engineers, policymakers, and community leaders in mitigating seismic risks. In her presidential address, Prof. Roohi Naaz highlighted the importance of preparedness and technological innovations, such as sensor-based systems for emergency evacuations. She reflected on the lessons learned from the 2005 earthquake, advocating for ongoing efforts in structural resilience and public awareness to minimize loss of life. Prof. J.A. Bhat stressed the necessity of enforcing earthquake-resistant building codes and enhancing public awareness to ensure future infrastructure resilience. Guest of Honor Ms. Snober Jameel pointed out that Jammu and Kashmir is highly disaster-prone, with increasing natural disaster frequency due to climate change. She emphasized that unsafe buildings, rather than the tremors themselves, are the primary cause of casualties, urging a focus on resilience and safety code enforcement. Prof. B.A. Mir noted that while earthquakes cannot be predicted, their impacts can be mitigated through proper engineering practices. Dr. Falak Zahoor, the workshop coordinator, underscored the importance of capacity building and community awareness in disaster resilience, particularly in a seismically sensitive region. The technical sessions included expert lectures on disaster management and earthquake-resistant design, providing valuable insights into structural safety practices tailored to the region’s vulnerabilities. The event concluded with expressions of gratitude from NIT Srinagar and DMRRR representatives, acknowledging the contributions of speakers, participants, and the organizing committee.