Open Architecture Network

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The UNDP is committing $15 millions to remove rubble and to train masons proper building techniques throughout the Kashmir region. Rather than wasting precious funds to remove building material, gabions can be used to form sturdy walls and foundations from the remains of toppled buildings. The UNDP can then use $15 million dollars to establish a gabion manufacturing economy in the area and train locals how to build with gabions.

Homes should be dug into the mountainside sitting on a thin gabion foundation. Exterior walls have gabion bases which support corner posts that hold up the roof. The gap between the roof and gabion walls can be filled in with loose paper for insulation and sheathed with tent fabric from refugee tents to make the walls waterproof. Tent fabric along the back wall can also prevent water from draining into the house. Roofs that survived the initial earthquake can be redeployed on the corner posts or new roofs can be constructed using traditional methods.

In the event that another earthquake should happen the gabions allow movement in the structure but should remain intact. If the roof supports give way and the roof falls, it will come to a rest on the half-height gabion walls. Angling the rear wall and building up a wedge of rubble will force mud slides and washouts to wash between houses instead of over them. Proper zoning and construction using these principles will allow a variety of plans to be constructed then ensure better safety.