Waknaghat Aug 2
Jaypee University of Information Technology (JUIT), Waknaghat, concluded a three-day specialised training programme on “Design Optimization of RCC Structures and Shear Walls using STAAD.Pro” for 23 engineers of the Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (HPPWD), aimed at enhancing structural design capabilities for infrastructure projects in the state.
Organised by the Department of Civil Engineering from July 28 to 30, the programme focused on advanced structural modelling, seismic analysis, shear wall design and optimisation techniques using STAAD.Pro software.
The training was inaugurated by JUIT Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) R.K. Sharma in the presence of Registrar Brig. R.K. Sharma, senior university officials, faculty members and participating engineers.
Training coordinator Dr. Tanmay Gupta highlighted the importance of advanced structural design in Himachal Pradesh, citing the state’s seismic vulnerability, challenging terrain and complex construction conditions. He said optimised RCC design and proper shear wall placement can improve structural safety, reduce material consumption and enhance project efficiency.
Addressing the participants, Vice-Chancellor Prof. R.K. Sharma called for the development of indigenous engineering tools and encouraged the integration of machine learning and emerging digital technologies into civil engineering to meet future infrastructure challenges.
The programme featured practical sessions on RCC building modelling, structural optimisation, seismic analysis, Physical Modeller applications, torsional behaviour, drift control, ductile detailing, model verification and interpretation of design outputs. Engineers also compared various structural configurations to understand their impact on safety, performance and cost.
Expert lectures were delivered by Prof. Himanshu Chawla of Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala, and Anukool Kumar, Assistant Manager at Intercontinental Consultants and Technocrats Pvt. Ltd., providing participants with both academic and industry perspectives.
The training concluded with a valedictory session and certificate distribution. Prof. Ashish Kumar, Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, thanked HPPWD engineers for their active participation and expressed hope for continued collaboration through future programmes on emerging areas of civil engineering.
The initiative is expected to strengthen the technical capacity of HPPWD engineers in delivering safer, more economical and performance-oriented RCC structures while reinforcing the long-standing partnership between JUIT and the state public works department.
