Srinagar, Oct 5: Experts at a technical talk and panel discussion in Srinagar on Monday called for climate-resilient, affordable and inclusive housing, stressing the need to move beyond constructing housing units towards creating sustainable and liveable communities.
The programme, organised by the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre (IEI-JKSC) on the occasion of World Habitat Day-2026, focused on the theme “Adequate Housing for All”.
The discussions covered affordable housing and housing security, disaster-resilient construction, sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, access to basic infrastructure and services, inclusive housing for vulnerable communities, and the use of innovative and cost-effective construction technologies.
Participants also emphasised the need for integrated urban planning, better connectivity, community development and stronger governance, financing and institutional mechanisms for ensuring adequate housing.
Welcoming the participants, IEI-JKSC Chairman Er. Ferdous Ahad Bhat said adequate housing should go beyond providing shelter and include safety, affordability, essential infrastructure, accessibility, environmental responsibility and human dignity.
Chief Guest Er. Syed Raza Shah Madni, former Secretary Technical (PHE), stressed the importance of sound planning, essential infrastructure and coordinated institutional efforts in addressing housing needs.
Guests of Honour Er. Farooq Ahmad Wani, former Chief Engineer (Mechanical), and Dr Touseef Bhatt, President, Rotary Club Kashmir, appreciated IEI-JKSC for providing a platform to deliberate on the social and developmental aspects of housing.
The event was attended by senior engineers, former administrators, academicians, professionals, civil society representatives and members of the engineering fraternity, including former Commissioner SMC Dr G.N. Qasba and other distinguished experts.
As an outcome of the programme, IEI-JKSC will prepare a policy brief incorporating the recommendations and key deliberations of the panel discussion. The brief will subsequently be submitted to the concerned government departments for consideration and appropriate policy action.
