Experts highlight sustainable infra solutions
Srinagar : A two-day lecture series on “Engineering in the Himalayas: Advances in Rock Mechanics and Ground Improvement” concluded successfully at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar.
The programme was organised by the Department of Civil Engineering, NIT Srinagar, in collaboration with the Indian Geotechnical Society Srinagar Chapter.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. F.A. Mir, Prof. J.A. Bhat, and Prof. B.A. Mir, alongside faculty members and event coordinators. Undergraduate and postgraduate engineering students actively participated in a series of lectures focused on geotechnical and infrastructure engineering. Prominent experts, such as Prof. K. Seshagiri Rao from IIT Delhi and Prof. Arif Ali Baig from NIT Warangal, delivered insightful sessions addressing emerging challenges and innovative solutions for sustainable infrastructure development in the Himalayan region. Prof. Baig emphasized the importance of polymer biogeotechnics and eco-friendly ground improvement techniques, urging students to engage in research within this evolving field. His expertise inspired young researchers to pursue sustainable engineering solutions. Prof. Rao, who expressed a personal connection to Jammu and Kashmir, shared his experiences from significant infrastructure projects like the Chenab Bridge and Anji Khad Bridge. He discussed the various geological, social, and technical challenges encountered during these projects and underscored the importance of collaboration among researchers and agencies in overcoming such obstacles. Additionally, he provided insights into tunneling in complex Himalayan terrain, referencing the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel and the PirPanjal Tunnel, which highlighted the innovation and perseverance required for large-scale infrastructure projects in challenging environments. Overall, the lecture series effectively connected academic research with practical engineering applications, motivating participants to contribute to sustainable and resilient infrastructure development in the Himalayan region.
