IMRAN SHAH
Jammu, DD, The Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI), Jammu Centre, commemorated World Water Day by organizing a seminar on the theme “Glacier Preservation.” The event brought together senior engineers, policymakers, and experts to discuss the importance of glaciers in sustaining water resources and the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Hon’ble Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, was the Chief Guest, while Satish Sharma, Minister for IT, Youth Services & Sports, Transport, Science & Technology, and Consumer Affairs, attended as the Guest of Honour. Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Shah, MD, Jal Jeevan Mission, J&K, was also present as a special guest.
Delivering the welcome address, Er. Anil Verma, Chairman, IEI Jammu Centre, emphasized the critical role of glaciers in maintaining water security and likened them to the lifeblood of the planet.
In his address, Javed Ahmed Rana highlighted the urgent need for research, policy interventions, and community participation in glacier preservation. He urged stakeholders to work collectively to protect these essential freshwater sources for future generations.
Satish Sharma emphasized the significance of afforestation and eco-friendly practices in mitigating climate change and protecting the environment. He urged people to adopt a simpler, sustainable lifestyle to minimize environmental degradation.
Khurshid Ahmad Shah stressed the role of local communities in conservation efforts, advocating for rainwater harvesting, organic farming, and responsible water usage to ease pressure on glacial water sources. He also administered the World Water Day Pledge to the audience.
Keynote speakers, Er. Iftikhar Ahmed Kakroo, Chairman, J&K Water Resources (Regulation & Management) Authority (JKWRRA), and Mr. Jose George Pottakkal, Head, Western Himalayan Regional Centre, National Institute of Hydrology, Jammu, provided insights into the state of glaciers in Jammu & Kashmir, the alarming rate of glacial melting, and the need for advanced research and water conservation strategies.
The seminar also featured technical presentations by distinguished engineers, including Er. P. K. Nanda, Er. B. L. Rawal, Er. Sachin Tickoo, Er. Gopal Sharma, Er. Ranjeev Sawhney, Er. Hemdeep Singh Ishar, Er. Joy Ganjoo, Er. Akash Dusgotra, and Er. Anil Kumar.
Concluding the event, Er. Avneet Gupta, Honorary Secretary, IEI Jammu Centre, expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, participants, and media for their support and active participation.
The seminar reinforced the urgent need for glacier preservation and sustainable water management, urging immediate and collective action to safeguard these vital resources for future generations.DD
