SWABI: Speakers at a conference held at the Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology on Saturday emphasised the need for continuous efforts to find solutions to the climate challenge.

The two-day conference on climate change and emerging environmental trends was organised by the department of civil engineering, bringing together researchers, students and industry experts to discuss practical solutions for the challenges posed by climate change.

The event was financed by Higher Education Commission, World Wide Fund for Nature, GIK Institute and Lakeshore City.

The organisers said that the main objective of the moot was how modern engineering can help tackle environmental and climate issues.

Discussions were also held on new technologies such as smart materials, eco-friendly construction methods, and advanced computer models.

Experts shared research on green city planning, strong building structures, and sustainable construction.

Prof Atiqur Rehman Tariq talked about the growing problem of water shortage, highlighting that water management would soon become one of the most important areas of civil engineering.

He encouraged researchers and engineers to focus on better ways to manage water and reduce the risks of droughts and shortages.

Dr Mohammad Tufail, who is currently serving as country manager CDM Smith, a US-based consulting firm, emphasised that engineers must build strong and eco-friendly infrastructure that reduces harm to nature and makes the best use of resources.

Rector GIK Institute Prof SM Hassan Zaidi stressed the importance of using modern technology to solve sustainability problems. “The climate change is a serious issue that needs new ideas and quick result-oriented action,” he remarked.

Prof Mohammad Ashraf Tanoli highlighted the need to update civil engineering education, saying that the universities should include new trends in engineering so that future engineers are well-prepared to deal with climate challenges and develop smart infrastructure.

By encouraging collaboration between universities and industry, the conference showed GIK Institute’s dedication to training engineers who will lead the future of sustainable civil engineering.

Published in Dawn, February 23rd, 2025