Srinagar, Sept. 19 -- Kashmir's celebrated beauty is disappearing fast. Lush meadows, turquoise lakes, and historic landmarks are giving way to haphazard construction and concrete walls. Roads carve through valleys, tourist spots are boxed in by bulky gates, and once-scenic views are lost to unsightly development.

These changes harm ecosystems and affect the well-being of residents and visitors alike. Eco-engineering offers a way to reconcile growth with nature, guiding development that protects the environment while enhancing human experience.

The problem starts in classrooms. Engineering students acquire technical knowledge but rarely absorb the responsibility that should accompany it.

Sustainability is often confined to a single op...