Three-Day Short-Term Training Program on Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation at AMU

Aligarh : The department of Civil Engineering, Z.H. College of Engineering & Technology, AMU, in collaboration with the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), New Delhi, inaugurated a three-day Short-Term Training Program (STTP) on Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation, scheduled from 7th to 9th October. The event brought together experts in disaster management, as well as faculty members, students, and industry professionals.

The Vice Chancellor of AMU, Prof. Naima Khatoon, delivered the keynote address as the Chief Guest. She emphasized the significance of disaster preparedness and lauded the Department of Civil Engineering for organizing such a crucial and timely program. Drawing on her personal experience with cyclones during her time in Orissa, she stressed the importance of proactive management strategies. Prof. Khatoon also echoed the potential of AI in enhancing disaster preparedness. She highlighted the need for ethical use of technology to ensure balanced and effective disaster risk reduction.

The inaugural lecture was delivered by Prof. Manish Shrikhande from IIT Roorkee, who spoke on “Structural Response Control for Better Disaster Preparedness.” His presentation covered advanced methodologies for enhancing the structural response of buildings and infrastructure to natural hazards like earthquakes and hurricanes, emphasizing the role of engineering solutions in minimizing damage and saving lives.

Prof. Vasant Matsagar from IIT Delhi followed with an engaging session on “Multi-Hazard Protection of Structures.” He highlighted the importance of resilient building designs capable of withstanding various types of hazards, such as earthquakes, floods, and storms. His insights underscored the need for adaptive and responsive structures in managing environmental risks.

The inaugural session was address by Prof. Izharul H Farooqi, Chairperson of the Department of Civil Engineering, who highlighted the department’s contributions, particularly in earthquake-resistant design and structural testing.

Prof. Shakeel Ahmad, the Coordinator of the program, introduced the theme of the training, focusing on strategies for preparedness and mitigation against natural disasters.

Prof. M.M. Sufyan Beg, Principal of Z.H. College of Engineering & Technology, talked about the importance of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into disaster preparedness efforts.

Speaking on the wide-ranging impacts of disasters, Prof. Nesar Ahmad, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering & Technology, discussed the devastating effects of both natural and technological disasters on human lives and economies.

The first day of the program laid the groundwork for two more days of expert-led sessions. Upcoming keynote lectures will feature speakers, including Prof. Chandan Ghosh (NIDM), Prof. Suresh Bhalla (IIT Delhi), Prof. M. Arif (AMU), Dr. Amir Ali Khan (NIDM), Er. Nitin Verma (Adhar Consultancy & Infrastructure, New Delhi), Prof. B.K. Maheshwari (IIT Roorkee), and Dr. Debdutta Ghosh (CBRI, Roorkee).

On the second day, participants will visit the heritage structure Sultan Jahan Manzil for an on-site inspection. This visit will provide practical insights into disaster preparedness and mitigation, particularly in the context of heritage conservation.

Prof. Rehan A Khan, the organizing secretary, expressed his gratitude to the speakers, participants, and collaborators during the vote of thanks. The event was also attended by program coordinators and conveners, including Prof. Amjad Masood, Prof. Rizwan A Khan, Dr. Zaid Mohammad, and Mr. Saad Shamim Ansari.

The three-day program aims to build a comprehensive understanding of disaster management and develop effective mitigation strategies through expert lectures, practical demonstrations, and collaborative discussions.