Er. Vijay Kumar Amar stands as a prominent figure in the world of civil engineering, with an illustrious career spanning more than five decades. Born in 1949, he began his professional journey with a Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) degree from NIT Bhopal in 1970. His commitment to continuous growth and learning led him to earn a Master of Technology in Foundation Engineering from MANIT Bhopal in 1983, further honing his expertise in the field. His career took flight in 1971 when he joined the Public Works Department (PWD) under the Government of Madhya Pradesh. Throughout his tenure, he made a significant impact on the state’s infrastructure, contributing to the construction of highways, bridges, government buildings, and tunnels. His work was particularly influential in Bhopal, where he oversaw the development of nearly two-thirds of the city’s highways and public structures. His dedication and technical expertise were pivotal in transforming the infrastructure landscape of Madhya Pradesh. Over the years, Er. Vijay’s exceptional service did not go unnoticed. He was honored with two prestigious Gold Medals—one awarded by the President of India in 1998 and another by the President of Sri Lanka in 2006. These accolades were a testament to his invaluable contributions to public service and civil engineering. Er. Vijay retired in 2009 as the Chief Engineer of MP PWD, but his passion for infrastructure development did not end with his retirement. He transitioned into consultancy, founding Nirmann Consultants and Mangal-Nirmaan Safety Consultants. His most notable project post-retirement was the redevelopment plan for South TT Nagar in Bhopal, which later became part of the Bhopal Smart City initiative. His strategic vision and planning were instrumental in the success of these urban development projects. His expertise in civil engineering and safety was sought after both nationally and internationally. He played a key role as a safety auditor for some of Asia’s most significant and challenging tunnel projects, including the Chenani-Nashri and Banihal tunnels in Jammu & Kashmir, and the Silk Yara-Barkot tunnel in Uttarakhand. The latter project attracted national attention due to a major rescue operation, further highlighting his expertise in infrastructure safety. In addition to his technical expertise, Er. Vijay is also a highly respected arbitrator. He has mediated several complex disputes between contractors and state governments across India, earning a reputation for his ability to resolve issues with technical precision and fairness. His skills in arbitration have made him a key figure in the field of infrastructure dispute resolution. Er. Vijay’s global exposure is equally impressive. In 1983, he was deputed to the United Nations, where he visited the United States, Brazil, and Mexico. During this time, he completed a Master’s in Advanced Highway Technology from the University of Missouri, Rolla. His second international deputation came in 1988 under a British Council assignment, which allowed him to travel to several European countries, including France, Italy, Belgium, Germany, and Austria. He used this opportunity to further his education, earning an MS in Planning from University College London. In 2006-2007, Er. Vijay participated in an Asian Development Bank-funded study mission, visiting countries such as Hong Kong, Australia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. These global experiences enriched his understanding of infrastructure development and urban planning, adding an international dimension to his work. Er. Vijay’s commitment to learning and self-improvement has been unwavering throughout his career. In 2021, at the age of 72, he completed an MBA in Construction Management, and in 2023, he achieved another milestone by earning an LLB degree. His continuous pursuit of education even in his later years demonstrates his dedication to personal and professional growth. Er. Vijay Kumar Amar’s remarkable career reflects not only his technical prowess but also his visionary leadership, global perspective, and commitment to lifelong learning. His contributions have shaped the infrastructure of Madhya Pradesh and set a high standard for civil engineers across India. His work continues to inspire the next generation of engineers and planners, ensuring that his legacy will endure for years to come.
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