Awantipora: The Department of Architecture in collaboration with the Dean of Students, IUST organized a workshop focusing on Sustainable Goal -11 concerning Sustainable Cities and Communities. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Mr. Iftikhar Ahmad Kakroo, Chief Engineer, Srinagar Smart City Ltd.
Addressing the inaugural function, Vice Chancellor IUST, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo emphasized the importance of constructing cities that are resilient, sustainable, and dedicated to preserving their cultural heritage, as these aspects are crucial for achieving inclusive development. Professor Romshoo also stressed that educational institutions must actively demonstrate their support and actively engage in government efforts to transform the vision of building sustainable cities and communities into a tangible reality.
Professor Romshoo further highlighted the significance of community and stakeholder engagement, emphasizing that involving these key players greatly aids in the successful execution of projects. He also expressed his belief that the Srinagar Smart City authorities should forge partnerships with academic institutions to facilitate knowledge exchange. This collaboration would enable the effective utilization of data generated by smart city technologies, thereby addressing the challenges associated with efficiently delivering smart city services.
In his address, Mr. Iftikhar Ahmad Kakroo talked about different projects completed as well as undergoing under the Srinagar Smart City. He discussed in detail about objectives of the projects, challenges faced in implementation, success projects such as Jhelum Riverfront, Polo-view, ‘Gantaghar’ etc. that have reinvigorated the urban infrastructure. He also listed different projects being undertaken to strengthen the IT ecosystem of Srinagar such as Srinagar Data Network, ITMS etc.
During the event, Mr. Anuj Malhotra, the General Manager of Planning and Urban Development, delivered a presentation that focused on the urban transformation of Srinagar as part of the Smart City Mission. Additionally, Mr. Sheikh Intekhab Alam conducted a session that provided a critical appraisal of the Srinagar Smart City project.
Following the inaugural session, a technical session was held in a hybrid mode, which allowed both in-person and virtual attendance. This session was attended by notable figures including Mr. Iftikhar Ahmad Kakroo, Mr. Anuj Malhotra, Mr. Saleem Beg, Prof. Nasir Khan, and Ms. Saima Iqbal. The entire program was effectively coordinated by Mr. Qazi Qamar Iqbal, an Associate Professor in the Department of Architecture at IUST.
