Engineering Resilience Empowering Local Innovation through Mason Training

Anugyalaya DDSSS in collaboration with National Society for Earthquake Technology (NSET) Nepal, organized a mason training program under the Integrated Disaster risk reduction and environment project (IDRRE), focused on constructing earthquake-resistant housing models. The initiative aimed to empower engineers and local masons with the expertise needed to contribute to the development of safer housing in seismic-prone areas. Caritas India along with Caritas Germany planned this initiative to enable model and asset creation within the state through trainings at community level thus promising contextual and simplified mechanisms for buildings that could stand the much nuanced earthquake and landslide threats of the region. This would stand as an introductory process for introducing such building code structures and initiatives for promoting many more associated programmes on safety and resilience building model creation.

Facilitated by resource persons from NSET Nepal and ESS (Earthquake Safety Solution), the five-day training program took place from January 30th to February 3rd, 2024. Nineteen masons from four Gram Panchayats (Goke, Rangit, Sindebong, and Bhalukhop) and three engineers from Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts participated in the program. The objective was to equip participants with knowledge and skills in implementing earthquake-resistant construction techniques, fostering a comprehensive understanding of seismic forces and their impact on structures.

The program was inaugurated in the presence of Mr. Rajen Banerjee (Treasurer, Anugyalaya), Mr. Raju Pradhan, Mr. Suman Kharkha (Caritas Germany) and the NSET team. The training blended theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical sessions, focusing on earthquake-resilient construction and retrofitting. Despite challenging weather conditions, the masons proactively participated and interacted throughout the training program. They appreciated the relevance of both theoretical and practical aspects which could be contextual for every region and still improve strength of the hanging and non-hanging structures.

The training emphasized rod binding techniques, lentil band construction, and staircases. Masons, such as Mr. Mann Bdr. Rai from Bhalukhop Gram Panchayat, expressed satisfaction in learning new techniques and understanding the importance of correct rod placement for resilient and strong houses.

The closing ceremony, attended by District Disaster Professional Ms. Namo Shree Raya, acknowledged the initiative under the IDRRE project. Certificates were distributed to participants, highlighting their responsibility in constructing resilient structures. The entire event received media coverage and acknowledgement for the much needed initiative at the grass-roots level.