PROBLEM:Lack of infrastructure and connectivity in this remote region is a problem for development. Added to this, local communities and NGOs in tribal development, though interested, are not able to put in place the infrastructure required to conduct tourism and bring in travellers and investment.
There is little work in the area, and with very little earning here, the men must take up seasonal work as labourers in cities. This spawns habitual alcohol use among the men who return (they pick up the habit in the city), and is creating a social fragmentation within the community, which is otherwise an alcohol-free social structure.
SOLUTION:We studied the needs of the local community and put together a list of requirements for the NGO working in this area, including architecture and basic infrastructure required for visitors based on what they told us.
By studying and documenting local flora and fauna and understanding the capabilities of the local communities, as well as looking at local resources and industries, we were able to design products and architecture (including retrofits for existing structures) that showcased local skills and design as well as reflected the beauty of this area's natural resources.
Additionally, we spent time with the villagers and sensitised them on the effects of alcohol abuse, and also explained to them and the NGO how the local's immense knowledge of their flora and fauna and inner workings of the forest are a resource not to be taken lightly, and this should be put to use to teach and guide urban citizen toward seeing more and understanding the intricacies of living with nature, something we believe we will all need to learn soon.
Client: Watershed Organization Trust (WOTR)
Location: Purushwadi, Maharashtra, India
Date: 2007
Link: www.wotr.org
Share on Facebook
No comments:
Post a Comment