Nagpur: “Smart infrastructure is the need of tomorrow,” stated Dr. Atul Vaidya, Vice-Chancellor of Laxminarayan Innovation Technological University (LITU), while inaugurating a two-day international conference on Next-Generation Infrastructure: Green Technologies, Smart Cities, and Sustainable Energy Solutions at KDK College of Engineering.
Addressing a gathering of industry leaders, academicians, and students, Dr. Vaidya emphasized the critical role of innovative infrastructure in shaping sustainable urban development. He highlighted the urgent need for advancements in urban planning, energy systems, and environmental technologies to tackle challenges arising from rapid urbanization.
VNIT Director, Prem Lal Patel, reinforced the message by stressing the importance of sustainable energy use and water resource management in city planning.
The conference featured a panel of distinguished keynote speakers including Sudarshan Kurwadkar from California State University, Manmohan Kalgal of Ultratech Cement, Putul Haldar from IIT Ropar, Vishal Thombare from the Mumbai Coastal Road Department, and Simon Klint Bergh of COBOD International, Denmark.
The event also marked 40 years of KDK College, with Principal Valsson Varghese presenting the institution’s journey. The ceremonial lamp lighting was conducted by AM Badar, SR Satone, and Prof. Mahendra Umare. Pallavi Bisen anchored the event, where conference proceedings were formally unveiled.
