UK AID supported enterprise catalyses reconstruction and generates employment
Loading...
Authors
Yugdeep Thapa
Issue Date
05/09/2017
Type
Language
en
Keywords
Construction , Technology
Alternative Title
Abstract
Every shovelful of soil 18-year-old Prem Bahadur Tamang lifts is to help his family. For the last 3 months, Prem has been working at the new Compressed Stablised Earth Block (CSEB) plant in Kalika Gaunpalika in Rasuwa. It is physically demanding work, but for locals like Prem each earth block they produce is an opportunity to help rebuild their home area and their own futures after the devastating 2015 Nepal earthquake. CSEBs are an affordable, sturdy alternative to bricks. Because they do not require firing kilns, an added advantage is that they can be manufactured locally in most places, which reduces transportation costs and provides employment. Demand for these new bricks is high, and Prem has been making up to 100 bricks a day. He earns between NRs. 10,000 – 15,000 a month; this helps him support his parents and pay tuition fees for his younger brother. The family is even putting aside savings so that they can also rebuild and move out of their tin shelter. “I’ll build it with blocks like the ones I’m making now,” says Prem.
Description
Citation
Publisher
License
All rights reserved