Srinagar, Jan 25: The Indian Buildings Congress (J&K Chapter) organised a Technical discussion to mark the National Tourism Day, focusing on the importance of safe, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure for strengthening the tourism sector in Jammu & Kashmir.
Addressing the gathering, Er. Irfan Shafi Parray, Honorary Secretary, IBC J&K Chapter, said that tourism is a key driver of the region’s economy and that well planned and robust infrastructure is essential for economic growth, employment generation and balanced regional development.
He said that recent incidents of heavy snowfall, windstorms and other extreme weather conditions across the region have once again highlighted the vulnerability of tourism infrastructure and the urgent need for climate responsive planning.
The speakers emphasised the need for planned development, adherence to quality construction standards and the adoption of appropriate and context specific building technologies. Stress was also laid on promoting disaster-resilient and environmentally sensitive infrastructure, in view of Jammu & Kashmir’s fragile ecology, seismic vulnerability and exposure to weather related hazards.
The importance of promoting renewable energy solutions was also highlighted, with specific reference to the use of solar lighting in tourist areas, public spaces and access pathways, as it reduces dependence on conventional power sources and ensures uninterrupted illumination during power outages caused by snowfall, thereby enhancing safety and visitor convenience.
