Kashmir: NIT Srinagar Wins Rs 73.6 Lakh Research Grant for Pioneering Bioremediation-Based Pavement Project

SRINAGAR: In a major recognition of innovation and interdisciplinary research, two faculty members from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar have been awarded a prestigious research grant of Rs 73,60,921.5 by the Ministry of Mines, Government of India. The grant supports a groundbreaking project Bioremediation-Enhanced Pavement System for Removal of Toxic Elements from Underground Soil .

The project will be led by Dr Vivek, Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, as the Principal Investigator (PI), and Dr Anshul Gupta, Assistant Professor in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, as the Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI).

The research aims to develop sustainable pavement systems that integrate bioremediation techniques to remove toxic and harmful substances from underground soil. This dual-purpose system is expected to not only purify the soil but also enhance the durability and performance of pavements, making it a step forward in eco-friendly infrastructure development.

According to the investigators, the project seeks to deliver field-deployable, cost-effective solutions for contaminated sites by bridging the disciplines of geotechnical engineering and environmental science. It will explore the synergy between biological agents and advanced material engineering strategies to create environmentally responsible and sustainable soil purification methods.

Upon completion, the research is anticipated to contribute significantly to the advancement of sustainable infrastructure and environmental restoration efforts across India.

Congratulating the faculty, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof Binod Kumar Kanaujia, said the project highlights the institute’s growing commitment to sustainable technologies and applied research with national impact. “Environmental restoration through engineering innovation is the need of the hour, and this grant will strengthen our contribution to that cause,” he said.

Prof Kanaujia added that NIT Srinagar continues to encourage collaborative, cross-disciplinary projects that address real-world challenges while promoting innovation among both faculty and students.

Registrar NIT Srinagar, Prof Atikur Rahman, also commended the team for securing the competitive grant and underscored the broader importance of the research. “Such initiatives are crucial in tackling pressing environmental issues. The efforts of Dr Vivek and Dr Anshul reflect NIT Srinagar’s dedication to research excellence and academic commitment,” he said.

Prof Rahman further assured that the institute would extend full infrastructural and administrative support to ensure the project’s successful execution, reaffirming NIT Srinagar’s position as a growing hub for sustainable and impactful research in engineering and technology.