Emphasising the expanding responsibilities of architects beyond visual design, Director IPR Ngangom Uttam Singh on Monday called for climate-responsive, green, and earthquake-resistant construction practices suited to Manipur’s environmental conditions.
He was speaking at an Architects’ Meet organised at the City Convention Centre, Imphal, to commemorate the Foundation Day of the Manipur Architects’ Forum (MAF). The event was jointly organised by MAF and the Town Planning Department.
Ngangom Uttan Singh underlined the need for strict adherence to building bye-laws, zoning norms, and safety regulations, stating that early engagement of architects in construction projects can prevent legal disputes and additional costs. He also highlighted the importance of accessibility in buildings in line with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and Supreme Court directives, while urging preservation of Manipur’s indigenous architectural character, particularly in government infrastructure.
The meet was attended by Chief Town Planner N. Benju Singh, former IAS officer R.K. Nimai, and Budhabir Thokchom, who served as jury head for the essay competition. Gitkumar Nepram presided over the programme.
Key highlights included the distribution of cash prizes and citations for the World Architecture Day Essay Writing Competition, felicitation of senior members of MAF, and a special award conferred by the Town Planning Department to Benson for being the first architect to adopt the Online Building Permit System under the Imphal Municipal Corporation.
A technical session later in the day focused on “Role of Architects in Combating Climate Change” and “Role of Architects in Enforcing Development Control Regulations.” Presentations were delivered by Environment and Climate Change Director T. Brajakumar Singh and Chief Town Planner N. Benju Singh, followed by an interactive discussion moderated by R.K. Nimai.
The programme concluded with active participation from officials, architects, and students from various institutes across the state.
