Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that development and environmental protection must be harmonised in a planned manner, ensuring that nature conservation alongside progress. He noted that India’s ancient construction traditions still guide the field of engineering. He explained, citing the example of Bhopal’s Upper Lake, that it was built without blocking any main river channel, utilising a technique that stores water between natural rock formations. This lake is not merely ornamental but also a grand source of drinking water. Its structure allows excess water to flow out naturally, reducing maintenance costs. CM Dr. Yadav further explained that today, while constructing roads, underpasses are being built beneath bridges to enable tigers and other wildlife to cross safely without affecting traffic. It is merely not the application of technology, but a prime example of harmonising ecological preservation with development. Due consideration must be accorded to the quantity of construction materials, the quality of design and overall cost-effectiveness. In construction, quality must take precedence over quantity. An engineer should possess equal proficiency in science, mathematics, and technology, and utilise the available resources to their fullest potential. Quality matters more than quantity in construction. An engineer should have equal mastery over science, mathematics & technology and use available resources in the best possible way.
CM Dr. Yadav expressed these views at the inauguration of a one-day seminar-cum-training workshop on ‘Coordination with Environment’ organised under the Public Works Department’s motto — ‘Public Works for Public Welfare’. The Chief Minister performed Deep-Prajjwalan at Ravindra Bhavan to inaugurate the workshop. The program began with the collective singing of the national song Vande Mataram and the national anthem Jana Gana Mana. On this occasion, the department also screened a short film focusing on environmental sensitivity.