2 Days Site Visit at New Secretariat in Mantripukhri, Imphal

Highlight of the Event

Event: 2 Days Site Visit at New Secretariat in Mantripukhri, Imphal

Coordinator(s):
I. Dr. Sonika Thongram
II. Dr. Khwairakpam Selija
III. Koko Karbia
IV. Kosygin Leisangthem
V. Dr. Momo Nameirakpam

Participants: 4th Semester and 6th Semester Students

Introduction:
As part of the experiential learning component under the B.Tech Civil Engineering curriculum at Manipur Technical University, a two-day educational site visit was organized to the New Secretariat construction site at Mantripukhri on 19th and 20th May 2025. This initiative was designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and field practice by providing students with first-hand exposure to the operations, challenges, and intricacies involved in the construction of a large-scale government infrastructure project.
With the rapid growth of infrastructure development in the region, it is imperative for future civil engineers to be well-versed not only in classroom concepts but also in the practical application of engineering principles. The New Secretariat complex, being one of the most significant ongoing high-rise construction projects in Manipur, offered an ideal learning platform for observing various construction activities including structural works, concrete technology, project management strategies, and site logistics.
The visit was coordinated by a team of faculty members from the Department of Civil Engineering — Dr. Sonika Thongram, Dr. Khwairakpam Selija, Mr. Koko Karbia, Mr. Kosygin Leishangthem, and Dr. Momo Nameirakpam — and included participation from students of the 4th and 6th semesters. During the two days, students had the opportunity to engage with on-site engineers, contractors, and officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), Government of Manipur, gaining valuable insights into the real-world challenges and responsibilities of a civil engineer. This report presents a comprehensive overview of the site visit, highlighting its objectives, activities conducted, key observations, and the learning outcomes achieved through this practical exposure.

Aim & Objective:
The primary aim of this two-day site visit to the New Secretariat construction site at Mantripukhri was to provide Civil engineering students with experiential learning opportunities that complement and enrich classroom-based theoretical knowledge. The visit aimed to expose students to the practical challenges and real-world dynamics of managing large-scale public infrastructure projects, particularly within the context of government-led construction in Manipur.

Key Objectives:
1. Real-Time Exposure to Construction Management:
To familiarize students with the day-to-day operations of an active construction site, including the planning, scheduling, and coordination required for managing manpower, machinery, materials, and safety. Observing how site engineers and project
managers handle challenges in real time deepens student understanding of construction workflows and decision-making processes.
2. Understanding Concrete Technology and Quality Control:
To enable students to examine various aspects of concrete construction, including types of concrete used, on-site batching processes, mix design considerations, and curing techniques. Emphasis was given to the importance of quality assurance through testing methods such as slump tests, cube tests, and non-destructive evaluations.
3. Bridging Theory and Practice:
To help students connect their academic learning—particularly in subjects like Structural Engineering, Construction Materials, and Project Management—with practical applications. Key elements such as reinforcement detailing, shuttering/formwork systems, and load transfer mechanisms were observed on-site to solidify conceptual understanding.
4. Site Planning and Execution:
To study how construction phases are strategically planned and executed, from excavation and foundation laying to superstructure work. Students were encouraged to observe and critically assess aspects such as time management, sequencing of activities, resource optimization, and contingency planning.

5. Professional Interaction and Industry Insights:
To promote engagement with practicing engineers, site supervisors, and government contractors, allowing students to clarify doubts, understand role-specific responsibilities, and learn about career opportunities and professional ethics in the construction industry.

6. Sustainable and Safe Construction Practices:
To introduce students to the safety norms, environmental considerations, and best practices adopted in government construction projects, including the use of eco- friendly materials, worker welfare measures, and adherence to building codes and regulations.
By the end of the site visit, students were expected to gain not only a deeper appreciation for the complexity of civil engineering projects but also a better sense of their future roles as engineers contributing to nation-building through infrastructure development.

Event Outcome:
Enhanced understanding of real-world construction management practices including project sequencing, stakeholder coordination, and site logistics. Students observed batching, pouring, compaction, and curing processes, along with insights into material selection and quality testing procedures. Interactive learning experience through discussions with Junior Engineers, Assistant Engineers and contractors, allowing students to clarify doubts and gain industry perspectives. Increased motivation and interest among students to pursue advanced studies and careers in construction engineering and project management.

Activities
Day 1 Activities
On Day 1, students were given a site tour where they observed the current status of construction activities. They received a briefing on site safety, construction sequence, and ongoing structural works including concrete casting and formwork systems. Students also observed batching operations and discussed with site engineers the criteria for selecting mix designs and quality control techniques.
Day 2 Activities
On the second day, students focused on observing reinforcement detailing, compaction, curing, and testing of materials. Special attention was given to project planning and resource allocation.
The highlight of the day was an interactive session with the Chief Engineer of PWD, Government of Manipur, who discussed project challenges and future opportunities in infrastructure development.

Learning Outcomes:
• Enhanced understanding of practical construction management techniques.
• Observed real-time execution of concrete operations including compaction and curing.
• Gained insight into formwork types, reinforcement practices, and structural behavior.
• Understood site logistics, safety protocols, and material handling processes.
• Interacted with professionals including junior and assistant engineers and contractors.

Conclusion:
The 2-day site visit was a significant step toward experiential learning for civil engineering students. It allowed them to apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations, thereby strengthening their academic and professional foundation.
The students expressed their excitement and satisfaction with the visit. Many highlighted how the experience helped them understand construction drawings better and relate structural concepts to real examples. Some reflections noted that this visit boosted their motivation to pursue careers in project management.

Acknowledgment:
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the authorities of Manipur Technical University for granting permission to conduct this site visit. Special thanks to university staff for providing transportation and logistical support.
We are especially thankful to the Public Works Department (PWD), Government of Manipur, for their hospitality and informative sessions. Their commitment to knowledge sharing significantly enriched the students’ learning experience.