Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 7: The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu Local Centre celebrated World Habitat Day at Channi Himmat, Jammu.
Dr Devansh Yadav, Municipal Commissioner, Jammu and CEO, Jammu Smart City Limited, was the Chief Guest on the ocassion.
Prof (Dr) Bhawna Sharma, Chairman, IEI Jammu Local Centre, presided over the event, which saw the participation of numerous engineers, professionals and members of civil society.
A seminar themed “Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future” was organized on the occasion.
In her welcome address, Prof (Dr) Bhawna Sharma highlighted the vital role, young people can play in developing sustainable and resilient cities.
She noted that as urbanization increases globally, cities face challenges such as overcrowding, environmental degradation, housing shortages, and social inequality.
She emphasized that the youth, with their fresh perspectives and innovative thinking, are well-suited to tackle these issues and drive transformative change.
Technical papers on the seminar’s theme were presented by PK Nanda, BL Rawal, Sumil Goyal and Joy Ganjoo, discussing various aspects of urban development.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Devansh Yadav stressed the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders to implement measures for a carbon-free Jammu and Kashmir.
He also emphasized the need to create green zones within Jammu as part of the Smart City Mission.
Secretary, Sachin Tickoo, in his remarks, underlined the significance of World Habitat Day in focusing on human settlements and the basic right to adequate shelter.
He called for prioritizing sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban development to ensure a secure habitat for future generations.
Tickoo also presented a vote of thanks to the participants and media personnel for their active engagement.