Ms. Vishnupriya R will present her APS as per the details below:

Date: 21st September 2023

Time: 1600 - 1730 hrs.

Venue: CTARA Conference Room No.1

Topic: Bamboo Wall Panels for Rural Infrastructure 

Guide: Prof. Chaaruchandra Korde

RPC Members: Prof. Satish B Agnihotri, Prof. Prakash Nanthagopalan

Abstract: 

Rural areas constitute a vital component of a nation's socio-economic fabric. A strong rural economy and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 rely on rural infrastructure. As per the 2011 Census, 72.2% of the total population of India lives in rural areas. However, Rural India continues to struggle with a serious infrastructure deficit, a significant problem with far-reaching effects on the welfare and economic growth of its vast people. The lack of basic facilities like appropriate housing, dependable healthcare facilities, and educational institutions highlights the need for substantial investments and all-encompassing methods to close the gap between rural and urban regions. Studies have been conducted to determine the challenges and setbacks faced in the execution of the scheme, of which affordability and social acceptability are central aspects. Walling constitutes a significant part of a structure in any building, thus making it a suitable intervention point for addressing these challenges. The review looks into the various walling techniques, categorized into traditional, contemporary and innovative technology, used in rural housing to understand the current scenario, technical specifications and challenges. A rural suitability matrix was developed based on parameters taken from challenges faced in rural construction and technical required specifications. The bamboo Ekra panel was found to be most suitable for rural construction based on the availability, cost and other aspects. The gaps identified from the review showed the lack of standardisation and technical specifications for the panel most suited for rural construction. The challenges of cost, time and quality of construction can be addressed by standardising the Prefabricated Bamboo Composite Wall Panel Technology through rigorous investigations that can confirm the required criteria for establishing it as a “Pucca” material. Accordingly, the research will focus on understanding the various technical requirements for the panel to be suitable for the market, such as the strength, safety and comfort aspects.