The ASCE India Section Northern Region (ASCE IS NR), in collaboration with Punjab Engineering College (PEC), successfully hosted the International Conference on Challenges and Innovations for Sustainable Smart Cities (CISSC 2025) at the Novotel Hotel, Chandigarh. This three-day event convened global experts, researchers, and policymakers to exchange innovative ideas and solutions for sustainable urban development. The conference witnessed over 250 distinguished delegates from esteemed institutions, including IITs, NITs, and international universities. BBMB was the proud Associate Sponsor of the event, along with other reputed collaborators, including Survey of India, IIT Ropar - Awadh, ISRS, ABCD Ltd, and many more esteemed institutions.
Day 1: Inaugural Ceremony, Book Release, Technical Sessions, and PEC Campus Visit
The conference commenced with a grand inaugural session graced by key dignitaries. Prof. Rajesh K. Bhatia (Patron, CISSC 2025 & Director, PEC) emphasized the crucial role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Science (CS) in fostering sustainable urban growth. Sh. Amit Prothi, Director General of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), graced the event as the Chief Guest and delivered a keynote address on building resilient cities.
During the inauguration ceremony, the Book of Abstracts was formally released, showcasing the breadth and depth of research contributions to the conference. A highlight of the day was the Special Recognition Awards Ceremony, where distinguished individuals were honored for their exceptional contributions: Dr. G. L. Sivakumar Bab (For outstanding contributions to geotechnical engineering and academia), Er. S. K. Vij (For significant contributions to infrastructure development and project management) and Late Sh. GJS Rosha (in recognition of his lifelong contributions to engineering and education).
Other eminent speakers included Dr. K. N. Gunalan (Senior Project Director, HNTB, USA) and Er. Feniosky A. Peña Mora (President, ASCE HQ), who presented global perspectives on smart city development. The technical sessions focused on Smart Construction, Urban Mobility, and Geospatial Technology Applications for Water Other eminent speakers included Dr. K. N. Gunalan (Senior Project Director, HNTB, USA) and Er. Feniosky A. Peña Mora (President, ASCE HQ), who presented global perspectives on smart city development. The technical sessions focused on Smart Construction, Urban Mobility, and Geospatial Technology Applications for Water and Wastewater Management.
Researchers showcased cutting-edge solutions addressing key urban challenges. Prof. S.K. Singh (Head, CED & Co-Patron, CISSC 2025) highlighted the Indian government's innovative policies related to sustainable urban development. Later in the day, conference delegates visited the PEC campus and were enthralled by vibrant cultural performances showcased by PEC students, creating an unforgettable experience.
Day 2: Technical Discussions and Sukna Lake & Elante Mall Visit
The second day featured insightful discussions and technical presentations by leading experts and industry professionals. Sh. Pradeep Singh, Deputy Surveyor General of the Survey of India, delivered a plenary session on the transformative role of AI, Geospatial Science, and Computer Science in urban planning. Eight technical sessions covered critical themes such as Disaster Management, Urban Planning, Smart and Sustainable Cities, and Innovative Engineering Practices. A special session was conducted for undergraduate researchers, recognizing outstanding projects:
First Prize: Bhuman Pandita and team (BITS Pilani)
Second Prize: Nida Sadiq and team (University of Kashmir)
Third Prize: Tanish Jain and team (BITS Pilani)
As part of the conference itinerary, delegates were taken to the scenic Sukna Lake and then shown Elante Mall, offering a mix of natural beauty and urban development experiences in Chandigarh.
Day 3: Plenary Session, Technical Discussions, and Valedictory Session
The third day began with an insightful plenary session by Prof. Phalguni Mukhopadhyay (University of Victoria, Canada), who highlighted innovative engineering practices and the application of advanced technologies in smart urban development. Following the plenary session, technical discussions continued, covering emerging trends in smart cities and innovative engineering solutions.
The event concluded with a prestigious valedictory session, summarizing key takeaways and identifying future directions for sustainable smart cities. Prof. S.K. Singh, Co-Patron of CISSC 2025, highlighted the event's success, which featured 19 technical sessions and over 300 research submissions. Chief Guest Er. Rajan Dutt, Commissioner GST, Panchkula Zone, emphasized the importance of policy interventions and public-private partnerships in urban development. Er. Marsha Anderson Bomar, President-Elect of ASCE, underscored the need for collaboration between academia and industry, while Er. April Lander, Director of ASCE Region 10, discussed global trends in smart city development. Delegates thoroughly enjoyed the exceptional hospitality, intellectually stimulating technical sessions, and ample networking opportunities provided throughout the conference. One delegate from the University of Lisbon remarked that CISSC 2025 was "one of the best international conferences attended in India,& praising the well-structured sessions and seamless execution of the event. Delegates applauded the support provided by Prof. Sandhu, Prof. Arshdeep Singh and a team of students Vanshika, Ayushi, Rajat, Shubham, Pawan, Mehak, Akshay, Rishant and Palak. The conference concluded with an award ceremony recognising outstanding research contributions and a vote of thanks by Dr Har Amrit Singh Sandhu, President of ASCE IS NR and Organising Chair.
