Chennai: The CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre (CSIR-SERC), Chennai, on Wednesday began a three-day advanced course on “Wind Loads and Effects on Structures” (WiLES 2025) under the CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative.

The programme, scheduled from December 17 to 19, aims to address emerging challenges related to wind-induced loading and structural response in modern infrastructure, officials said.

At the inaugural session, P. Harikrishna, Chief Scientist, CSIR-SERC, and course coordinator, presented an overview of the programme and highlighted the institute's sustained efforts in capacity building through regular advanced and customised training programmes.

The course was formally inaugurated by N. Anandavalli, Director, CSIR-SERC, who, in her address, underlined the organisation's contributions to national infrastructure development. She elaborated on CSIR-SERC's work in wind engineering, covering research and development, strategic sectors, societal applications and industry-driven solutions.

The inaugural programme concluded with a vote of thanks by M. Keerthana, Principal Scientist, CSIR-SERC, and course coordinator.

Over the three days, experts from the Wind Engineering Laboratory of CSIR-SERC will deliver technical lectures and share insights based on their experience in wind tunnel testing, field measurements and computational fluid dynamics. An industry expert will also address participants, offering practical perspectives.

The course has attracted 40 participants, including practising engineers, researchers, academicians and students, reflecting growing interest in advanced wind engineering practices.