Imphal: A day-long architects’ meet held on Monday emphasized the importance of consulting architects at the initial stages of construction to avoid future expenses and legal complications. The event was organized by the Manipur Architects Forum in collaboration with the Town Planning Department at the City Convention Center in Imphal to mark the Manipur Architects Forum’s (MAF) Foundation Day.
Nongthombam Benju Singh, Chief Town Planner of the Manipur Government, who attended the event as Guest of Honor, spoke on the online building approval system, the deemed approval mechanism, and the accountability of empanelled architects. He urged architects to strictly adhere to the established rules and regulations.
Ngangom Uttam Singh, Director of Information and Public Relations, attended the event as Chief Guest. He emphasized that the role of architects is not limited to aesthetics, but also includes ensuring legal compliance with building bylaws, zoning regulations, and safety regulations. He also urged architects to design climate-resilient, green, and earthquake-resistant buildings, considering how vulnerable Manipur is to earthquakes and heavy rainfall. Furthermore, he urged architects to ensure accessibility in buildings in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and Supreme Court directives. He also emphasized the need to preserve and promote Manipur’s local architectural identity, especially in government buildings.
The program also distributed prizes, including cash awards and citations, for the World Architecture Day essay writing competition, and honored senior MAF members. Discussions focused on the role of architects in combating climate change and implementing the Development Control Regulation (DCR). One of the highlights of the event was a special award presented by the Town Planning Department to Ar. Benson for being the first to adopt the Online Building Permit System (OBPS) at the Imphal Municipal Corporation (IMC).
Following this, a technical session was held on the themes of “The Role of Architects in Combating Climate Change” and “The Role of Architects in Enforcing Development Control Regulations.” Dr. T. Brajkumar Singh, Director of Environment and Climate Change, Manipur, and Ar. N. Benju Singh, Chief Town Planner, delivered informative presentations on these topics, emphasizing the crucial role of architects in sustainable development and regulatory compliance.
The technical session concluded with an open discussion, actively participated by the audience, followed by a keynote address by the moderator, Mr. R.K. Nimai Singh, retired IAS.
Dr. R.K. Nimai, retired IAS officer, and AR Thokchom Budhabir, jury head of the essay writing competition, attended the event as guests of honor, while AR Geetkumar Nepram, president of the Manipur Architects Forum, presided over the event. Officials from the Town Planning Department, members of the Manipur Architects Forum, and students from several institutes were also present.
