Withstanding floods and earthquakes
Bamboo houses in Assam are strong and resilient, suitable for regions prone to floods and earthquakes.
The Chang Ghar, a traditional house of the Mising community, is built on stilts up to 10 feet high to keep floodwaters away.
These houses are made with interwoven mats, allowing them to "breathe," which helps maintain comfort in hot and humid conditions.
In 2017, SEEDS (Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society) collaborated with local artisans to create sturdier versions of Chang Ghar with modern enhancements like concrete bases and deeper foundations.
The flexible joints in bamboo framing allow the houses to sway during earthquakes, preventing collapse.
Assam-type houses utilize lightweight bamboo and ikora reeds, which were improved with earthquake-resistant techniques after the 1897 Assam earthquake.
Bamboo's low carbon footprint and fast growth make it an environmentally sustainable building material.
These innovative designs underscore the importance of local knowledge combined with contemporary technology for resilience against climate challenges.
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