The Fourth National Conference on Earthquake Engineering was inaugurated on Friday, 4th of Magh, 2081, during a program organized by Khwopa Engineering College and Khwopa College of Engineering, run by Bhaktapur Municipality. The event was organized on the occasion the 27th National Earthquake Day, to emphasize the significance of disaster preparedness and resilience.

The conference was inaugurated by Mr. Prem Suwal, Secretary of Nepal Workers and Peasants' Party and member of Federal Parliament. He highlighted the critical need for collaborative efforts in earthquake engineering to enhance Nepal's capacity for mitigating seismic risks.

Inaugurating the conference, MP Prem Suwal emphasized that poverty eradication is achievable through balanced national development and underscored the importance of global peace as a prerequisite for progress.

He highlighted the crucial role of local governments in minimizing earthquake and disaster risks by planning settlements that align with community needs. MP Suwal called for the development of housing areas with a focus on safety and sustainability, stressing the necessity of effective monitoring systems to prevent negligence and shortcomings in the construction of physical infrastructure. He pointed out that lapses in construction standards often lead to significant damage during disasters.

MP Suwal also criticized the growing dependency on contractors and consultants for tasks that could be managed by local user communities, noting that such practices are weakening the government’s effectiveness. He further expressed concern over the substandard quality of work delivered by contractors, calling for improved oversight and accountability in infrastructure development to ensure resilience against disasters.

MP Prem Suwal highlighted concerns raised by geologists regarding the weakening soil conditions in the valley, noting that the land is becoming increasingly incapable of supporting heavy structures. He emphasized the critical need for engineers, technicians, and geologists to prioritize studying and researching this issue to ensure sustainable urban development.

Underscoring the importance of quality construction materials, MP Suwal called for stringent checks to minimize earthquake damage. He urged businesspeople in the construction sector to act with integrity and stressed the necessity of developing a skilled workforce to enhance construction standards.

MP Suwal also pointed out the role of consultants and contractors in contributing to the country's challenges, noting that their practices often undermine progress. He expressed confidence that the balanced development of the country would not only address structural vulnerabilities but also strengthen the nation's economy, paving the way for resilience and growth.

MP Prem Suwal emphasized the critical importance of strengthening the foundation of areas and structures during construction to mitigate risks and ensure resilience against disasters. He underscored the need for robust planning and execution in construction practices to address vulnerabilities effectively.

Highlighting the significance of collective learning and collaboration, he advocated for national and international conferences to serve as platforms for discussing and debating global risk reduction strategies. According to MP Suwal, such forums are vital for exchanging knowledge, sharing best practices, and fostering cooperation to tackle disaster risks on a broader scale.

The chairman of the program and Mayor of Bhaktapur Municipality, Mr. Sunil Prajapati, highlighted the significant contributions of the municipality-run colleges in advancing research and promoting scientific education. He stated that these institutions are playing a pivotal role in mitigating the loss of life and property caused by earthquakes by organizing both national and international conferences that foster awareness and preparedness.

Mayor Prajapati further mentioned that Bhaktapur Municipality has completed all necessary infrastructure for the operation of Khwopa University. However, despite their efforts, the government has been delaying the approval required to initiate the university's operations. He emphasized that Bhaktapur Municipality, committed to providing affordable and quality education, holds the distinction of being the first municipality in Nepal to propose the establishment of a university, reflecting its progressive vision for education and community development.

Deputy Chief Ar. Rajani Joshi emphasized that the colleges under Bhaktapur Municipality have been instrumental in enhancing the dignity not only of the local society but also of the entire nation by hosting national and international conferences. She highlighted the significant contributions made by these institutions to the reconstruction efforts in Bhaktapur following the devastating earthquake, showcasing their commitment to rebuilding resilient communities.

Ar. Joshi also noted that while the earthquake disaster brought immense challenges, it also offered an opportunity to learn and grow. The lessons from such events, she stated, have been invaluable in fostering innovation, improving disaster preparedness, and strengthening the community's ability to respond effectively to future calamities.

Mr. Dinesh Prajapati, Program Officer of the University Grants Commission, provided insights into the various initiatives undertaken by the commission for the development and enhancement of Nepal's education sector. He emphasized Nepal's high vulnerability to earthquakes and expressed optimism that the conference would serve as an effective platform to develop solutions to mitigate disaster risks.

Er. Sunil Duwal, Principal of Khwopa College of Engineering, warmly welcomed all guests, presenters, and participants to the event. He underscored the importance of organizing a national conference, emphasizing its role in fostering dialogue, research, and innovation in addressing earthquake-related challenges.

Dr. Subeg Man Bijukchhen, Vice Principal of Khwopa Engineering College, also addressed the program, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the institutions in promoting scientific education and research to minimize the impact of disasters.