IIT-Mandi professor receives Disaster Preparedness Award

Dr Kala Venkata Uday, a pioneering geotechnical engineer and associate professor at IIT-Mandi, received the prestigious Disaster Preparedness Award at the WCDM-DRR Awards Ceremony 2024, held recently. The event, held at the Constitution Club of India, celebrated trailblazers in disaster risk reduction and resilience.

Dr Uday was recognised for his groundbreaking contributions to landslide disaster risk reduction, nature-based mitigation solutions, and innovations in biogeotechnics. With over 15 years of experience, including spearheading IIT-Mandi’s pioneering initiatives in landslide monitoring and early warning systems, Dr Uday’s research has transformed disaster management practices, particularly in the Himalayan region.

Expressing gratitude, Dr Uday highlighted the collective effort of his team and the unwavering support of IIT-Mandi, stating, “This award is a testament to our commitment to building disaster-resilient communities. It motivates us to further our mission of saving lives and safeguarding infrastructure.”

The WCDM-DRR Awards, organised by the Disaster Management Initiatives and Convergence Society (DMICS), spotlight leaders in disaster resilience. This year’s event featured policymakers, scientists, and industry experts, fostering dialogue on innovative solutions for disaster management.

Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, was the chief guest at the event, while Justice MM Kumar, former chief justice of Jammu and Kashmir, attended as the guest of honour. Sanjay Kumar, IAS, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy, also attended the event.

Dr Uday’s achievements underscore the role of academia in addressing real-world challenges. His innovative solutions, including IoT-based early warning systems and sustainable construction practices, continue to inspire and empower communities to mitigate disaster risks effectively.