The system, which was implemented in the Bio-Science building also, has a tunnel dug below the surface and all the air coming inside the building passes through this tunnel and is kept at a constant temperature. The temperatures in the corridors and other common areas is maintained through this system, doing away with the need for airconditioning and therefore helps save energy,” said Kanvinde.

The architects have also ensured that the building remains “nestled” in the natural environment, dotted with full-grown trees and greenery. “We have incorporated natural landscapes like the low-lying areas of the plot in the site. We haven’t cut too many trees and have replaced every tree cut by planting four trees of species that require minimum maintenance,” she added.

A water treatment plant has been set up where water used in the laboratories of various departments will be treated and used for horticulture. While the building will be fully operational only after April, Dr Dhande said the centre will become operational after the inauguration. “Since the idea is to develop new technologies through research, we will first be working on studying the relationship between health and environmnt and also developing sensors to track water and air pollution,” said Dhande.

Eco-friendly

• Has photovoltaic cells and solar panels that generate 30 per cent of the energy requirement

• Reflectors that cause ‘visual’ pollution are not used

• To maintain temperature, windows have been glazed, roofs and windows insulated

• Recycled tiles, manufactured indigenously, are used.

... contd.