In the wake of devastating flash floods impacting infrastructure in North-eastern states like Assam and Sikkim, stakeholders convened at a summit organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry to emphasise the imperative of green and sustainable infrastructure development in the region.
Recent flash floods have highlighted the vulnerability of infrastructure projects, particularly those associated with hydropower plants and railway lines, to natural disasters in the Northeast. These incidents underscore the pressing need for a shift towards eco-friendly infrastructure solutions that can withstand environmental challenges while promoting sustainable development. During the summit, stakeholders emphasised the importance of adopting environmentally conscious approaches to infrastructure development in the region. The focus was on integrating green technologies, sustainable practices, and resilient design principles into infrastructure projects to minimise environmental impact and enhance long-term viability.
By advocating for green and sustainable infrastructure, stakeholders aim to address the dual objectives of economic growth and environmental conservation in the Northeast. The call for eco-friendly development aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development goals. Moving forward, it is imperative for policymakers, businesses, and communities to collaborate effectively to ensure that infrastructure projects in the Northeast prioritise environmental sustainability and resilience. Through concerted efforts, the region can achieve sustainable growth while safeguarding its unique ecological heritage.
In light of recurrent landslides in several states in the region, Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, highlighted the need for slope stabilisation in order to address terrain challenges. Kumar called for the need for focusing on green infrastructure, advocating for micro solar grid power plants, and maintaining a balance between developmental needs and environmental goals. Dr R.M. Dubey, Executive Advisor, Climate Change & Response PTY LTD and former Chairman, Pollution Control Board of Assam, outlined that work on Gramin Sarak Yojna has been commendable in the Northeast and emphasised the need for significant governmental intervention while ensuring environmental safeguards and keeping the United Nations’ mandated Sustainable Development Goals in mind.
As per R K Pandey, Former Member (Projects) at National Highways Authority of India, there has been a shift in the approach towards concessional contractors, wherein in projects, implementation of new specifications like recycling and depth reclamation have been made. These initiatives have resulted in a notable reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, according to him. Sudhir Hoshing, Chair, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Infrastructure Development Ports, Shipping, Roads and Waterways Committee, outlined that sustainable road construction is essential to ensure that carbon dioxide emissions are under control. Kumar highlighted the massive infrastructure development in the region, which includes expansion of roads from 10,900 km to over 16,000 km, the addition of 1,900 km of railway tracks, and the increase in airports from nine to 17, serving more than 65 airlines, as well as inland waterways having been expanded from one to 20 in the last nine years.
