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Prof Anil Sharma has over 30 years of experience in designing multi-star hotels that are climate-responsive and energy-efficient. The ace architect is also a visiting expert and facility member at IIT-Roorkee, The School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal, and Indira Gandhi Technical University for Women, New Delhi among others. Sharma and his projects have been the recipient of many prestigious awards. His first hotel project, Holiday Inn, won the Best Hotel of the Year in the Asia Pacific Region in 1994. 

He has taken on a leadership role in organizing and hosting the annual ‘Hi-Aim’ conference which is a collective assembly of hospitality industry leaders, architects, interior designers, and managers. The next conference is scheduled to be held in Kathmandu from 1-2 Feb 2024. 

In a conversation with Evana Manandhar of ApEx, Sharma runs us through the importance of architecture and design while discussing his own experiences and highlighting the importance of the upcoming conference. 

You have been involved in both architectural design and project management. How do you strike a balance? 

Over the years, there has been a shift from a primary focus on architectural design to an increased involvement in project management. I believe it was largely influenced by market pressures and evolving industry demands. In the early stages of my career, I found myself gradually taking on more project management responsibilities, sometimes even offering these services for free. This transition was a response to the perceived market expectations and the need to balance design creativity with effective project execution.

Over the last 15-20 years, I’ve strategically changed my approach. Recognizing the distinct nature of architectural design and project management, I have effectively delegated the project management role to a proficient team of managers. This has allowed me to refocus on the core aspects of architectural design. By delegating project management, I’ve been able to streamline processes and achieve a more focused and efficient workflow.

Do designing and management go hand in hand? 

I firmly believe that an architect’s primary role is to conceive and design exceptional buildings. The creation of precise drawings and plans is paramount in ensuring the success of a project. This concentrated effort in architectural design is critical as it forms the foundation upon which construction is based. It’s essential to underscore that while architectural design provides the blueprint for construction, project management handles the execution aspects. These are distinct roles, each requiring specific expertise. 

My journey in architecture has seen a nuanced balance between design and project management. Recognizing the need to specialize, I’ve strategically delegated project management responsibilities, allowing me to concentrate on the architect’s core role of creating impeccable designs for construction.

How do you approach a new project? What are the challenges in understanding the client’s needs and requirements?

Approaching a new project involves a structured sequence to comprehensively understand the client’s needs and requirements. Initial client interaction is crucial. You must engage in open dialogue to grasp the project’s goals, audience, and desired outcomes. Once the requirements are defined, thorough research is conducted and industry trends are analyzed. 

You must also put in the effort to understand the historical and cultural context as this ensures a tailored approach. What follows is a holistic presentation to the client, showcasing researched insights and design options aligned with project goals. Success hinges on a comprehensive understanding, emphasizing ongoing collaboration, and communication. This approach ensures that the project not only meets functional requirements but also resonates with its unique identity, fostering a successful and impactful outcome. 

Can you tell us about a challenging project you’ve worked on? How did you deal with it?

Working on the Marriott project in Nepal was a huge challenge. The site is irregular and unconventionally shaped. Coupled with its location in an urban slum, the project demanded a thoughtful and creative approach. Focused on transforming these challenges into opportunities, I crafted an inward-looking design centered around a captivating courtyard. 

This unique space not only accommodated the irregular site but also addressed the negative aspects of the surrounding urban environment. The courtyard, conceived as the project’s focal point, ingeniously became the landmark. Guests were treated to not only an aesthetically pleasing space but also some really good views. A swimming pool was made at the top, adding an element of luxury and leisure. 

What are some qualities that architects must possess and hone?

An architect’s success lies in the cultivation of two paramount qualities: humility and knowledge. Firstly, humility is the linchpin for effective collaboration, enabling the architect to integrate diverse perspectives from clients, engineers, and collaborators. This quality fosters a client-centric approach, prioritizing the client’s vision over personal design preferences. Humility also manifests in the ability to accept constructive criticism, learn from mistakes, and adapt designs iteratively. 

Secondly, in-depth knowledge forms the bedrock of architectural prowess. Technical proficiency in construction, materials, and structural systems is non-negotiable to ensure the safety and functionality of a design. Additionally, a well-rounded architect possesses a deep understanding of environmental sustainability, cultural and historical contexts, and regulatory compliance. This knowledge not only facilitates innovative and timeless design but also empowers architects to educate clients and navigate legal complexities. 

Since Hi-Aim’s goal is to become a landmark forum for the hospitality industry, what are some of the key ways to do that?

In order to make Hi-Aim a preeminent forum for the hospitality industry and elevate its reputation, a meticulous approach to speaker selection is imperative. Priority should be given to individuals with established industry standing and a proven ability to engage diverse audiences. The selection process should also emphasize a diversity of perspectives within the hospitality sector, ensuring representation from various segments such as hotel management, design, technology, and sustainability. 

Leveraging partnerships with industry associations and reputable brands can facilitate recommendations and introductions. To enhance the exclusivity and prestige of the event, an invitation-only strategy for key speakers can be employed. Strategic marketing campaigns, highlighting the speakers’ achievements and unique perspectives should precede the event to generate anticipation and buzz. A commitment to speaker support, recognition, and the creation of exclusive networking opportunities will further incentivize influential figures to participate, thereby solidifying HI-AIM’s reputation as a landmark conference in the hospitality industry.

I believe our preparations for COP28 started rather late. Early spadework would have given us ample time to engage every stakeholder, not just officials but also individuals from every corner of Nepal. Still, we have a golden opportunity to raise the concerns of our people on the global stage.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to shift our focus toward issues that have received less attention. For several years, we have been discussing similar topics without delving into less-highlighted concerns.

Another crucial aspect to note is that COP isn’t a platform to solicit funds or assistance. There isn’t anyone positioned to provide such aid. COP, in its full form, emphasizes this as well—it’s a conference of parties meant for discussing global climate issues.

It’s important to acknowledge that our efforts to address climate issues are commendable, yet there’s room for improvement. Current preps are praiseworthy, but we can certainly aspire to achieve more.

The author is an environmentalist 

Every citizen is bound by the law. It applies to everyone from rulers to people. But Durga Prasain has been doing some activities, making statements which have directly violated the law. The government, however, is pretending like nothing is wrong.

Example 1

According to section 15 of the Procedure for use of the National Flag and National Anthem (First Amendment), 2076, it is prohibited to use the National Anthem in an insulting and inappropriate manner. Section 17 of the same Procedure has given the responsibility of monitoring and regulating it to the Chief District Officer.

Recently, Prasain has organized a program by playing Nepal's monarchy-era national anthem, which is a great insult to the national anthem of the country and against the Constitution and law.

Not only that, he had made many such derogatory remarks that could incite violence and disrupt social harmony.

Example 2

Marwadis, who were expelled from Burma (Myanmar), entered Nepal in the 1970s. These 16 families have ruled the Nepalis.

Example 3

(Taking the name of party leaders) has become a problem for all! Because, I am right. Do not mess with the right person. You will be broken into pieces.

Example 4

Let them bring all the women, I will settle the issue by buying a house each to all. My father married seven times. I am not a coward.

Example 5

Your loans up to Rs 2 million will be written off on the night when the system is changed. The next day, you can walk freely.

Political analyst Dr Lokraj Baral said that the activities of Prasain, which have put democracy achieved through much struggle and sacrifices at peril, are objectionable.

He is doing such things just to be viral in social media.

Baral was of the opinion that Prasain became popular among the people by raising their issues.

“Will monarchy be restored just by saying to exempt the interest of bank and financial institutions’ loans and by raising the issues of people’s frustration and dissatisfaction? This is just a strategy to influence the people, I don’t think this will work,” he said.

He suggested that the government should move ahead strongly to control such illegal activities.

Another political analyst Shyam Shrestha said that the illegal activities of Durga Prasain have no meaning.  “His movement will neither change the system nor wipe out the republic,” he said, adding, “The Republic was not only brought by leaders. It was achieved through a great sacrifice and contribution of the people. King was not thrown out of the throne without any reason. It is not that easy to restore the monarchy.”

Prasain started the campaign to not pay the interest on the loans he has taken from several banks, Shrestha said.

His public remarks to not pay the banks loans is objectionable and a challenge to the rule of law.

“The protests can be staged peacefully. The government should pay attention and take stringent action if the protests are organized in a chaotic manner,” Shrestha further said.

Maniram Gyawali, Chairman of the Struggle Committee Against Microfinance Institutions, claimed that the victims of microfinance institutions will not be freed from Prasain who has been advocating for monarchy and Hindu state.

Prasain came to limelight after he hosted a lunch for CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal with Marsi rice, a special variety of rice known for its unique aroma and distinct flavor.

Meanwhile, Yuwa Sangh, the youth wing of the UML, and its founder Mahesh Basnet have come out openly to challenge Durga Prasain who for months have clashed verbally.

After both sides decided to organize a program in the same place (Maitighar), the District Administration Office, Kathmandu has issued a prohibitory order in Maitighar to prevent any untoward incidents.

Cryosphere Call to Action is an open letter for the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28), which is meeting under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Dubai. It is a movement to move forward with both urgency and ambition in mitigation of climate change due to the response of various components of the cryosphere, including glaciers, snow, permafrost, ice sheets and sea ice. The message of the cryosphere to global leaders is 2oC too high as global impacts and damage for each tenth of a degree higher, especially for longer periods, will grow well beyond the limits of adaptation.

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change with the goal to hold the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts “to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. It was adopted by 196 Parties at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris in 2015. However, temperature target of 1.5°C is not just a preference compared to 2°C. Instead, it implies that there is a significant difference between the two, suggesting that aiming for a rise in global temperatures of 1.5°C has distinct advantages and avoiding severe environmental impacts and is more imperative than settling for a limit of 2°C. UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) also indicates that crossing the 1.5°C threshold risks unleashing far more severe climate change impacts.

Climate-induced disasters are becoming more frequent and severe, with devastating impacts on people and ecosystems around the world. These disasters include heat waves, droughts, floods, wildfires, storms, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and sea level rise. Such events are killing thousands of people each year; causing widespread famine and displacement; destroying homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The 2022 flood submerged one-third of Pakistan, killed 1,739 people, affected 33m people, damaged most of the water systems and economic losses to the tune of $15.2bn (approx). Forty-two people died in the recent GLOF in Sikkim—77 people remain unaccounted for—and damaged hydropower projects, disrupting the generation of 1,200 MW. A flash flood in Mustang in 2023 damaged several houses, bridges and affected farmlands. Besides, the number of cryosphere-related hazards is increasing in the Himalayan region with increased warming in the high mountain region.

Message from the community

International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI), a network of senior policy experts and researchers working with governments and organizations, has released the call for action for Cryosphere for COP28. The summary of the call for action is as follows:

“The irreversible global damage caused by Cryosphere loss is already inevitable to some extent. The message is that this insanity cannot and must not continue. COP28, and December 2023 must be when we correct the course. The Cryosphere, encompassing Earth's ice sheets, sea ice, permafrost, polar oceans, glaciers, and snow, is ground zero for climate change. This is primarily due to the straightforward physical phenomenon of ice melting. The warming effect of CO2, predominantly stemming from fossil fuel usage, has already resulted in significant declines in glaciers and ice sheets, contributing to a rise in global sea levels. This phenomenon has also led to diminished water resources due to reduced snowpack, increased emissions of CO2 and methane resulting from thawing permafrost. It is time to carve a line in the snow: Because of what we have learned about the Cryosphere since the Paris Agreement was signed in 2015, 1.5°C is not merely preferable to 2°C. It is the only option.

The plea at COP28 is for global leaders to acknowledge the stark reality presented by the Cryosphere’s response, asserting that even a 2°C limit is too high. The call is to commit to the Paris Agreement’s “well below 2°C” target, which, in essence, translates to aiming solely for the 1.5°C threshold. If we don’t take decisive action against climate change, the consequences will be severe. Millions of people may be forced to leave their homes due to coastal flooding. We’ll face a shortage of clean water, and the delicate ecosystems in oceans and mountains will be disrupted. This will create long-lasting challenges for future generations. The main issue here is the increasing levels of CO2, reaching unacceptable heights. The scientific community advocates for a comprehensive stocktake with clear guidelines, a pathway to phase out fossil fuels and financial mechanisms to support climate action and adaptation. It’s crucial that we go beyond mere discussion and implement substantial measures to address the far-reaching effects of melting ice. It’s not enough to talk the talk; we must walk the walk.”

Meaning for Nepal

Nepal’s glaciers and snowpack are lifelines for the nation, supplying essential water for drinking, irrigation and hydropower generation. They are acting as a climate regulator and supporting unique ecosystems, including high-altitude forests, alpine meadows and glaciers, contributing to the country’s rich biodiversity. Being rich in cryosphere resources, it is urgent for Nepal to advocate for ambitious and achievable targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, including negotiating for increased financial support in research and development related to cryosphere science and adaptation measures. The funding is crucial for Nepal to understand the impacts of climate change on the cryosphere and develop effective adaptation measures in the high mountain areas. It also necessitates cooperation with other nations on cryosphere protection to learn from shared experiences and adopt best practices. This collaborative approach enhances the effectiveness of cryosphere conservation efforts. Such an effort will enable Nepal to implement the Cryosphere Call to Action effectively.

In this context, the Cryosphere Call to Action at COP28 UAE is a landmark opportunity for Nepal to raise its voice on this issue and address the imminent challenges posed by climate change.