Kerala has just started re-building after the floods, and this could be a great solution for those who need a new place to live.

According to this report published in Onmanorama, the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), and Institute of Indian Interior Designers (IIID) have come up with a method that enables the creation of a house measuring 450 sq ft, comprising two bedrooms, a kitchen and a formal living space, on a budget of only Rs 5 lakh!

 ferrocement house being constructed in Kerala
ferrocement house being constructed in Kerala © Baiju Sebastian

....

What’s more, the house is made using ferrocement technology, giving it the ability to withstand natural disasters like floods better than conventional homes.

For those who have lost their homes, this unique innovation may just be what they need.

So, what is this ferrocement technology and why is it better?

Ferrocement or ferro-cement is a construction material made up of wire meshes and cement mortar. Cement mortar is applied over a layer of metal mesh, woven or expanded metal, and closely spaced steel bars. It has many advantages – like low construction material cost, ease of construction, low weight, a long lifetime and the ability to be fabricated into any desired shape.

....

The technology will be deployed to rebuild properties that were destroyed or damaged in the Kerala floods, and Jiji Thomas, an engineer and expert in the field, will be a part of the rebuilding project. Many homes around Thrissur, built about 10 years ago, were constructed using this technology, and according to IIA Thrissur Chairman architect Ranjith Roy, if the government and other agencies are ready to bear the construction expenses, the centre will provide technical help and supervision for free.