NATIONAL SEMINAR ON EMERGING TRENDS IN BUILDING TECHNOLOGY

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A three day National Seminar on "Emerging Trends in Building Technology" organized by the Indian Buildings Congress began here today. Inaugurating the Seminar, Secretary, Department of Urban Employment & Poverty Alleviation Shri L.M. Mehta said that computer-aided programmes have helped in solving intricate technical problems in Civil Engineering Structures, resulting in speedy completion of projects such as Metro-rail, flyovers, etc. He said the information technology has revolutionized the work culture of construction Industry, but instead of being lured by high technology, one should choose such technology which is compatible with local economy like availability of labour force and capital. Shri Mehta also said that bringing of service sector under WTO agreement has created new challenges and opportunities for our manpower. Working population is on the decline, so technocrats have now a paramount role to play, he added.

Referring to the water scarcity in the country Shri Mehta said that the ground water level has gone down due to continuous pumping without sufficient replenishment and hence rainwater harvesting and effluent treatment should be encouraged to conserve water.

On this occasion Shri Mehta released two books titled, "Habitat Vision – 2020" & "Finance for Building Industry". He also gave away awards for excellent architectural work to Shri K. Srinivasan and Shri Raj Grewal, associated with designing Vigyan Bhawan & Parliament Library respectively.