ROORKEE: In a significant academic gathering, leading researchers, engineers and policy experts assembled at the CSIR Central Building Research Institute in Roorkee for the second day of the global programme One Health One World 2025. The technical sessions focused on disaster risk reduction, urban safety, infrastructure resilience and scientific innovation intended to meet emerging environmental and structural challenges.
Our correspondent reports that the organisers structured the day around multi-disciplinary learning intended to link scientific research with practical field outcomes. Experts noted that India requires stronger institutional collaboration to improve public safety in hazard-prone regions.
Our correspondent adds that the programme highlighted sustainable development, improved planning practices and the continued importance of evidence based engineering for safer communities.
During the morning sessions Professor C V R Murty of the Indian Institute of Technology Madras delivered a detailed presentation on earthquake resistant design. He explained that Indian cities located in high seismic zones remain vulnerable without stronger compliance with structural safety norms. He said that better design practices can reduce loss of life and enhance long term resilience. He urged public agencies to invest in updated scientific guidelines and to communicate the importance of safe construction to citizens.
In another session Yogesh P Kajale of BG Shrikhe Construction Tech Private Limited Pune spoke about modern construction technologies and the demands of efficient project management. He discussed the relationship between material quality, scientific engineering and sustainable infrastructure growth. He observed that the sector must adopt innovative methods to address the demands of rapid urban development. His presentation included examples of new construction systems suited for complex terrain.
A detailed address was also delivered by Dr Shantanu Sarkar from the Uttarakhand Landslide Mitigation and Management Centre in Dehradun. He highlighted the increasing exposure of Himalayan settlements to slope instability. He said that improved mapping, early warning systems and coordinated mitigation efforts are essential for protecting communities in high-risk zones. He added that agencies must strengthen cooperation to build scientific capacity for hazard response.
Throughout the day the conference featured interactive exchanges supported by presentations on sustainable materials, geotechnical studies and infrastructure planning. The moderators encouraged open dialogue so that students and young researchers could engage fully with senior experts. Participants noted that cross-disciplinary interaction is vital for effective disaster management.
Alongside the technical sessions CBRI organised a large exhibition to showcase its latest research and technological developments. The exhibits displayed work on structural behaviour under stress, advanced composite materials, geotechnical analysis and construction technology. Visitors interacted with researchers to understand how laboratory innovations can be applied to real world projects.
The delegation also toured several key CBRI facilities. They visited the national earthquake engineering testing facility, the geotechnical testing laboratory, the three dimensional concrete printing unit, the fire research laboratory and the advanced composite laboratory. They also observed the rural technology park and the construction technology demonstration park. The visit provided an extensive overview of the institute’s contributions to national safety requirements.
Senior organisers said that the One Health One World 2025 programme aims to develop a shared understanding of disaster risk among engineers, environmental scientists and public institutions. They noted that India’s exposure to earthquakes, landslides and extreme weather requires sustained research and stronger public engagement. They added that the programme encourages institutions to move beyond traditional boundaries and to integrate health, environment and infrastructure considerations.
The speakers emphasised that a safe future requires cooperation across scientific, administrative and community level systems. They said that disaster resilience cannot be achieved without sustainable planning and long term vision. They added that technology driven solutions must be supported by public awareness and local capacity building.
The second day of the conference concluded with a call for deeper collaboration among research institutions. Participants expressed confidence that continued scientific exchange will help reduce risks and strengthen national preparedness. The organisers confirmed that the programme will continue with specialised sessions in the coming days.
Dheeraj reports on governance, public services, jobs, and regional developments across Uttarakhand. He specialises in recruitment news, public-sector updates, and civic issues that impact everyday citizens. His reporting brings accuracy, context, and a grassroots perspective to local journalism.
