OP Sharma
“Landscaping design is crucial for congenial environ for better living. In the ever growing population and the fast growing need for shelters, the urgency of having synergy of best of man-nature relationship is pivotal indeed”. This view was expressed by Prabhakar B Bhagwat, a top landscape expert and designer who had come as an expert specialist for interviews in Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra recently.
In an exclusive interaction with me, he talked at length about his specialization of architect, town planning and also landscaping and also made mention about his pioneering contribution in this emerging field in the process of urbanisation and reconstruction after flood ravaged in Jammu and Kashmir. His basic philosophy is to have harmony between man and the nature for optimal positive results in decent modern living. He stands for greenery, clean environ for decent living.
A significant feature is that he has supervised preparation of a detailed study report on “Methodology of Conservation of Ecology of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and Trikuta Hills Area” by a Jammuite Vikas Bhola, a research scholar on Landscape-Architect. This well thoughtful and comprehensive project report is workable and it would be worthwhile if the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board authorities pays immediate attention to it. It is assuming greater importance now due to ever increasing inflow of pilgrims which may establish new record of yatries to this holy place.
A Pioneer
Mr. Bhagwat is a pioneer landscape and design expert who did B.Sc in Agriculture from University of Poona and later qualified PG Diploma in Plant Breeding, Soil Reclamation, Landscape and Design from Holland. He acquired professional trainings in Denmark, UK and completed M. Tech in Town and Country Planning from IIT, Kharagpur.
He has long been associated with prestigious academic institutions including IIT, Kharagpur, National Institute of Designs, Ahmedabad; Landscape Architect School of Planning & Architect, New Delhi and Landscape Architect CEPT University, Ahmedabad. Having rich professional experience, he is associated with a host of leading institutions and organizations both within India and abroad.
Planning Urbanisation
Stressing the importance of landscape planning, he underlined the need for it is on the upgraph as the process of urbanization is on the rise.
Questioned about the high-rise buildings in the metro-politans, he opined that without proper plans of landscape with greenery all around, such structures are like “concrete jungle” graveyard. Proper and minutest attention has to be paid to layout plans.
Asked to comment on the River Tawi flowing through Jammu, he strongly held that it should be properly “trained”, explore possibilities of regularating its flow through variety of methods including afforestation of catchment areas and up-gradation of embankments. He cited the example of Sabarmati river which is perennial source of precious water in Gujarat State. He underlined need for best management of vast natural resources in Jammu and Kashmir as a key to better life.
Reacting sharply to absence of landscape designers in Jammu and Kashmir, he stated that the State Government should have its experts by deputing bright young boys or girls for extensive skill development or can engage consultancy services from across the country.This tourism industry State must have constant vigilance on the eco-system and while laying more emphasis on raising infrastructure also set an example of pragmatic programme planning and efficient execution.
(Starline Syndicate Service)
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