Page:SELECTED ESSAYS of Dr. S. S. KALBAG.pdf/199

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constraint. Demystification of this knowledge and training at school level will make it widely accessible. All services related to water, microbiological testing, pump installation and repairs, plumbing etc. fall in the same category. Construction: This is widely recognised as a priority area for both urban and rural needs. Operation Blackboard aims at providing just two classrooms of 28 m2 for every primary school. But at Rs. 25,000 per classroom, the budget is going to be a major constraint on this program. Yet, if you look at the cost break-up and the specifications, there is no reason why the cost could not be halved. Roofing is the most expensive and critical part of the construction but there is not enough being done to explore new composites and new designs. Sanitation is a high priority. So the cost (Rs.1100 per sanitary block) could be reduced to Rs. 250, by substituting the roof and brick walls with reed screens and plaster. Water storage is an important need in the home. A ferrocement tank with a tap is cheaper and more hygienic than steel barrels but they need to be made locally. The geodesic dome offers an attractive possibility for a variety of applications, from homes, classrooms, hospitals, green houses, cages for poultry, silos etc. The concept of modular, prefabricated construction has good potential. Standardized RCC columns and panels could provide simple constructions for cowsheds, storage spaces etc. Ready-made trusses could be more economical than wooden trusses that are very expensive now. Similarly, doors and window frames offer scope for being sold as standard products. Workshop services: This offers very good scope. One cannot expect farmers to use pumps and engines and take the pipes 20 kms. away for cutting and threading or for minor repairs. There is need for a workshop facility within 5 km. of every place. The workshop with < Rural Development Through Education System 186