Addressing the gathering of builders and contractors here in the city on Sunday, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said that there is a need to bring down construction cost of projects without compromising on its quality. He said innovative ideas and new technology could help the builders and contractors achieve this.

Gadkari was speaking at the felicitation ceremony of former President of Builders Association of India (BAI) P R Mundle and National Vice President of the association Rajendra Athawale. Former Maharashtra Minister Sunil Kedar; former Rajya Sabha MP Ajay Sancheti; National President of BAI Nimesh Paatel; General Secretary Gyanchand Madhani; State Chairman Dattatray Mule; Treasurer Mohinder Rijhwani; Chairman Organising Committee Rajan Nair; BAI Nagpur Secretary Abhay Garde, Butibori BAI Chairman Sunil Mishra; Nagpur BAI Chairman Pradeep Nagrare; and Secretary Prashant Wasade were seated on the dais.

Gadkari further said the country’s builders and contractors should adopt various new technologies that are being used in developed nations while creating infrastructure projects and building housing schemes.

“We must also think of various options that can be used as substitutes for cement and steel. Fiberglass and bamboo can be a good substitute to bring down the construction costs,” he said.

While felicitating Mundle, Gadkari said that there is no dearth of rich people in the world but there are a few among them who come forward to help needy persons in the society.

“People who have earned enough money should be aware of their social responsibility and work for the welfare of the society. P R Mundle is one among a handful of persons who has always worked for the people,” Gadkari said, highlighting Mundle’s work in various fields like education, sports, construction sector and social work. Gadkari also recognised the work of Rajendra Athawale while felicitating him At the outset, Rajan Nair welcomed the guests and

participating builders and contractors.

Expressing his views, Sunil Kedar said the builders and contractors have been creating world-class infrastructure to meet the growing demand of the country and thus the society must recognise their contribution to national building. Ajay Sancheti said Mundle has a multidimensional personality.

Sunil Ullhe, Secretary; Anuradha Mundle, wife of P R Mundle - and others were also present on the occasion. Jayant Khadatkar; Vice President - Co-ordination Committee, proposed the formal vote of thanks while Renuka Deshkar

conducted the proceedings of the event.