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AWANTIPORA: A two-day training and capacity building workshop on Earthquake Risk Mitigation and Management was inaugurated today at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRRR), Government of J&K. The workshop, scheduled for September 24–25, brings together engineers and officials from various government departments, to enhance skills and preparedness in disaster risk reduction.
The inaugural session was graced by Prof. Harsh K. Gupta, President, Geological Society of India, as the Chief Guest. In his address, Prof. Gupta highlighted the series of efforts undertaken by the Government of India to mitigate the impact of disasters on human lives and emphasized the need for extensive research in this area. He appreciated the efforts of IUST in organizing such initiatives, calling them “critical in shaping a safer future for Kashmir.”
“Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, Vice Chancellor of IUST, underlined Kashmir’s multi-hazard vulnerability and emphasized the urgency of developing robust preparedness strategies. “Earthquakes are unpredictable, but preparedness remains the most critical factor in minimizing their impact. We must work towards building a disaster-conscious citizenry in Jammu and Kashmir. Disaster risk reduction is a shared responsibility, and IUST is fully committed to contributing towards safeguarding lives and infrastructure,” he said.
Prof. Muzaffar Ahmad, Former Member NDMA, the Guest of Honour, spoke on the relevance of disaster-sensitive infrastructure and the importance of retrofitting in reducing risks. He lauded IUST’s initiatives in strengthening community resilience. Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi, Registrar IUST, drew attention to the high vulnerability profile of Jammu and Kashmir and urged comprehensive preparedness at all levels.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Aabid Hussain Shalla, Dean Research IUST that multiple departments and centres at IUST are dedicated to contributing in this vital area.The vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. Mehran Qureshi from the Department of Architecture, who reiterated the university’s commitment to developing disaster-resistant systems and structures.
