RETHINKING CHAR-DWELLING COMMUNITIES FOR TRANSIENT MOVING ISLAN

State University of Bangladesh, Department of Architecture, Dhaka

Project idea

Char communities in Bangladesh face significant challenges due to climate change. Chars are riverine islands that are formed and eroded by river dynamics, making them highly vulnerable to flooding, erosion, and other climate-related disasters. The project acknowledges the need to address the specific vulnerabilities of these communities and enhance their resilience

This project aims to develop sustainable and resilient living solutions for the char-dwelling communities in the Gaibandha region of the Brahmaputra basin. These communities live on transient river islands (chars) that are prone to flooding, erosion, and seasonal changes, making traditional dwelling methods inadequate.

Project description

The "Rethinking Char-Dwelling Communities" project is a holistic approach to addressing the unique challenges faced by the transient communities of the Brahmaputra basin. By developing resilient housing, enhancing livelihoods, and improving infrastructure, the project aims to create sustainable and adaptable living conditions for the char-dwellers, ultimately fostering a more resilient and thriving community.

This project has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for char-dwelling communities in the Gaibandha region by providing innovative and sustainable solutions to their unique challenges.

Objectives:
Assess Current Living Conditions: Conduct a comprehensive study to understand the living conditions, challenges, and needs of the char-dwelling communities.
Develop Sustainable Housing Solutions: Design innovative, flood-resistant, and movable housing solutions that cater to the transient nature of these islands.
Improve infrastructure: Establish essential infrastructure, including water supply, sanitation, healthcare, and education facilities, tailored to the transient nature of the community.
Enhance Livelihood Opportunities: Introduce sustainable livelihood options that are adaptable to the changing environment.
Community Engagement and Training: Involve the local communities in the planning and implementation process, providing training on new technologies and practices.
Environmental Impact Assessment: Ensure that all proposed solutions are environmentally sustainable and reduce the ecological footprint.

Technical information

Char areas are temporary land formations in river basins created by sediment deposition. The Brahmaputra Basin experiences seasonal floods, leading to the formation and erosion of chars.

Frequent displacement due to river erosion and flooding. Lack of permanent infrastructure. Vulnerability to climate change impacts. Limited access to essential services like healthcare, education, and sanitation.

Strategies:
Flood-Resistant Housing: Elevated structures to withstand floods.
Use of locally sourced, durable materials.
Community Infrastructure: Mobile and modular community centers.
Solar-powered systems for electricity and water purification.
Livelihood Support: Training programs in adaptive agricultural practices. Promotion of alternative income sources like fishing and handicrafts.
Disaster Preparedness: Early warning systems for floods. Community-based disaster management plans.
Environmental Sustainability: Afforestation and reforestation projects to stabilize riverbanks. Sustainable land use planning.