Sustainable development, planned urbanisation and environmentally responsible architecture emerged as key themes on the second day of “ArchEx Srinagar 2026”, as architects, urban planners, environmentalists and policymakers participated in a high-level panel discussion in Srinagar on Saturday.
The panel discussion, inaugurated by MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, focused on the challenges of rapid urbanisation, environmental degradation and the urgent need for sustainable architectural practices in Jammu and Kashmir.
Experts from different fields deliberated on issues related to urban planning, ecological balance, infrastructure development and preservation of Kashmir’s architectural identity amid growing developmental pressures.
The panel featured noted experts, including Er. Iftikhar Hakim, former Chief Town Planner, architect and urban planner Ghulam Hassan Mir, environmentalist and RTI activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat, and Prof. Umer Farooq from the Islamic University of Science and Technology.
Speakers highlighted the importance of sustainable urban policies, environmentally conscious construction and scientific planning to address emerging challenges in the region, including shrinking green spaces, unplanned urban expansion and climate-related risks.
They stressed that architecture should not remain limited to infrastructure creation alone but must also contribute towards ecological protection, cultural preservation and improving quality of life.
The discussion also underlined the need for stronger coordination between policymakers, architects, urban planners and environmental experts to ensure balanced and sustainable development in Jammu and Kashmir.
ArchEx Srinagar 2026, being held from May 16 to 18, has drawn participation from more than 100 companies from across the country showcasing innovations in architecture, construction materials, interior solutions and sustainable technologies.
The exhibition, organised by the Indian Institute of Architects Srinagar Centre in association with Minds Media & Management Pvt Ltd, has attracted architects, engineers, builders, students and entrepreneurs from across Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country.
The three-day event is aimed at promoting knowledge exchange, professional networking and awareness about modern and sustainable construction practices in the region.
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