Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji
Panaji, Jul 1: Goa's traditional architectural practices can serve as a model for sustainable development across the country, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said while inaugurating the National Conference on Goan Architecture & Sustainability in New Delhi on Friday.
Addressing architects, urban planners, conservationists, policymakers and industry experts at the conference organised by the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC), Sawant described Goa as a "living laboratory for sustainable architecture" where heritage, climate-responsive design and modern infrastructure can coexist.
"Architecture is not merely about constructing buildings. It is about building culture, communities and civilisation," Sawant said, adding that buildings reflect how generations understood nature, organised society and lived in harmony with their surroundings.
Highlighting the Centre's vision of balancing development with heritage conservation, he stressed that modern infrastructure should not come at the cost of cultural identity.
Referring to Goa's traditional building practices, the chief minister said features such as laterite stone walls, lime plaster, sloping Mangalore tile roofs, shaded verandas and central courtyards were scientific responses to the state's geography and climate.
He said these designs naturally reduced indoor temperatures, improved ventilation, conserved energy and effectively addressed the challenges posed by Goa's heavy monsoon season.
"Goa has been practising green architecture which the world is discussing today. We are not merely preserving history; we are preserving knowledge," he said.
Sawant said the state government is promoting heritage conservation through GIS-based heritage mapping, digital documentation and scientific restoration of historical structures. He also highlighted restoration of forts, development of heritage villages and initiatives to preserve temple heritage while supporting traditional craftsmen and generating livelihoods.
Emphasising sustainable public infrastructure, Sawant said future government projects, including schools, hospitals, offices and tourism facilities, should incorporate green building principles such as passive cooling, rainwater harvesting, renewable energy systems and energy-efficient technologies.
He also underlined the role of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, digital twins, building information modelling (BIM), laser scanning, drones and GIS mapping, in preserving heritage and planning sustainable development.
"Technology should become the strongest ally of tradition," he said.
Calling for climate-sensitive development, Sawant said every new government building should reflect Goa's climate, culture and identity while meeting global standards of sustainability.
He added that Goa aspires to become "India's living laboratory for sustainable architecture", where traditional knowledge, technological innovation and environmental responsibility work together to shape future development.