ABSTRACT
Is it possible to build disaster-resilient settlements for the marginalized sections of society using cost-effective techniques? This is the core question explored in this paper. Using case studies like Architect BV Doshi’s Aranya Township, to understand priorities for similar housing projects, the authors have worked on deriving a solution for slum residents, in the city of Bhubaneswar in Odisha. The marginalized sections of society are the most vulnerable to natural and anthropogenic hazards, due to poor infrastructure and lack of basic needs. As a solution, 435 disaster-resilient homes are proposed on an approximately 5-acre site for the slum residents in Bhoinagar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Design features at the unit level include adequate ventilation, flexible layout, incremental approach, and variations in the form. Disaster resistance, climate-responsive architecture, and cost-effective methods including the use of innovative building systems like bamboo panels have been explored. At the site level, a spine road has been designed, which would connect all points of the site and would also assist for the easy accessibility of fire services in case of a fire hazard. Mixed-use dwellings have been distributed all-round the site, being true to the neighborhood concept. Community and revenue generation centers make the neighborhood self-sufficient. The most innovative feature, however, is that the design of the buildings has been done to facilitate future changes and dismantlement, in part or whole. This ensures the recovery of systems, components, and materials Thus, cradle to cradle approach is a core idea presented in the paper.
