Srinagar Aug 4 (KNS) : Khyber Cement hosted the maiden Khyber Cement Architectural Conclave (KCAC) 2026 at Ramada Encore, Raj Bagh, bringing together some of Jammu and Kashmir's foremost architects, urban planners, conservationists, engineers and former policymakers for an evening of dialogue on the future of the region's built environment.
More than a corporate event, the Conclave was conceived as a knowledge platform to address the opportunities and challenges shaping construction in Jammu and Kashmir. The discussions moved beyond products and technology to focus on a set of simple questions: How can the region build infrastructure that is structurally safe, environmentally responsible and rooted in its unique architectural identity? Is vertical the way out for the city of Kashmir, which is expanding in all directions? How to address tradition, culture, climatic realities, seismic tensions while building for future?
A highlight of the evening was a panel discussion on "Sustainability and Responsible Construction", featuring architect and urban design academic Umar Farooq, architectural historian and conservation architect Dr. Sameer Hamdani, and heritage conservationist M. Saleem Beg. Moderated by journalist Masood Hussain, the discussion examined issues ranging from structural resilience and climate-responsive design to urban planning, heritage conservation and the importance of preserving Jammu & Kashmir's architectural character amid rapid urbanisation.
Umar Tramboo, Director Corporate & Strategy, Khyber Cement, said the Conclave reflected the company's long-term commitment to the people and future of Jammu and Kashmir.
"Our vision is clear. We want to contribute not only to stronger buildings but also to a stronger future for Jammu and Kashmir. That means bringing together the people who shape our built environment, encouraging meaningful dialogue, and supporting ideas that balance safety, sustainability and identity. We see this Conclave as an investment in the future of our region," he said.
The Conclave also reinforced Khyber Cement's growing role as a thought leader in the region's construction sector.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelBy creating a common platform for architects, engineers, planners, developers and policymakers, the company aims to encourage better building practices, promote structural safety and inspire a more informed conversation about the changing urban landscape.
"The conclave is an attempt to create a space for all the stakeholders to talk on the most prized possession everybody is so keen to have," Hussain said while winding up the discussion. "The conclave will scale up for the next edition, and it must have participation from all stakeholders in Jammu & Kashmir's building architecture."
Wasim Ahmed Khan, Chief of Sales & Customer Relations, Khyber Cement, said the purpose of the initiative was to foster honest conversations around the challenges confronting the construction industry. "Every day, architects, engineers and planners make difficult choices between speed and safety, between cost and quality, between short-term solutions and long-term sustainability.
Through this Conclave, Khyber Cement wants to create a platform where those conversations can take place openly and constructively. This is not a one-time event; it is the beginning of an annual forum that will continue to evolve with the needs of the industry," he said.
The inaugural edition of KCAC 2026 marks another milestone in Khyber Cement's broader commitment to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. Alongside its support for sports, youth and community initiatives, the company is now investing in platforms that encourage professional dialogue and knowledge sharing among those who design and build the region's homes, institutions, public spaces and cities.
As Jammu and Kashmir undergoes rapid urban transformation, the quality of that growth will depend not only on stronger materials but also on stronger ideas. With the launch of the Khyber Cement Architectural Conclave, Khyber Cement has positioned itself at the forefront of that conversation, bringing together the expertise needed to build a future that is safe, sustainable and unmistakably rooted in the identity of Jammu & Kashmir.(KNS)