SRINAGAR: Two faculty members from the Civil Engineering Department at NIT Srinagar, Dr. Vivek and Dr. Sandeep Samantaray, along with former NIT Srinagar Director Prof. Rakesh Sehgal, have co-authored a technical book titled Materials for Sustainable Pavement Construction, published by Taylor & Francis.  The first edition of the book will soon hit the markets, while the eBook is scheduled for release on March 31, 2025.

Speaking about their achievement, Dr. Vivek and Dr. Sandeep expressed their pride in completing the book under the guidance of Prof. Sehgal. Dr. Vivek shared that after two years of rigorous efforts and multiple revisions, he has successfully published his first technical book with Taylor & Francis. He said the book provides a comprehensive overview of utilizing various waste materials in pavement construction, highlighting their potential to contribute to sustainable infrastructure development.

 It explores alternative materials such as recycled plastics, rubber, glass, and industrial by-products as substitutes for conventional materials like asphalt and concrete. The book also discusses the properties and performance of different waste materials and their role in enhancing pavement durability, while also shedding light on the economic and environmental benefits, including lower construction costs and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Meanwhile, Prof. Rakesh Sehgal, who served as Director of NIT Srinagar from November 2017 to May 2023, played a key role in the institute’s growth, including a significant improvement in its NIRF ranking from 239th in 2019 to 66th in 2022. Dr. Sandeep also said that Materials for Sustainable Pavement Construction serves as a valuable resource for researchers and graduate students in pavement and civil engineering.

He stated that this book provides detailed guidance on the selection, design, and implementation of waste materials in pavement construction, with a focus on practical applications. The book also features case studies showcasing successful real-world projects.

Both faculty members have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Dr. Vivek specializes in pavement material characterization, pavement design, geosynthetics applications in roads, asphalt materials, traffic flow theory, vehicular emission modeling, and accident analysis. Dr. Sandeep’s research focuses on hydrology, water resources engineering, and soft computing.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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