The devastating earthquake in 2001 showed cruelly but also impressively how disaster can bring out the best in human and likewise how well coordinated disaster rehabilitation is skilled at infusing new energy and at changing development directions for a region.
These are the principles of the Hunnarshala Foundation. Its members gave proof of lifesaving and innovative abilities not only during the earthquake but especially for strengthening traditional wisdom and technology.
During the Shelter Reconstruction Programme after the calamity of 2001, that was undertaken by various NGOs and the Government, arose the need for a long term institution which could enable a sustainable revival of traditional building crafts. That was the birth of the non-profit organization Hunnarshala, which was primarily guided by the ideas of working with and encouraging the interests of building artisans and their craft through training, assistance and capacity building to the end that it leads them into the mainstream of construction. Furthermore, the organization promotes eco-friendly, cost effective and low energy building materials and techniques and it provides housing und construction facilities which combines high quality and affordability.
From the beginning, Hunnarshala has worked towards owner and community driven reconstruction in Tamil Nadu, Kashmir, Indonesia and Afghanistan, where the organization facilitated the building process of more than 30.000 interim shelters and 12.000 permanent homes, while in Bihar, after the Kosi floods, it initiated one of the most comprehensive demonstrations for rehab.
By cooperating and working with the community, rural experts, professionals and the Government, Hunnarshala showed that two important principles can lead to development concerning success: on the one hand, most regions in the world have communities, which, when trusted and well assisted, are able to create equitable, cost effective and safe recovery. Moreover, traditional design, building practices and the use of natural resources and materials, such as bamboo and mud, offer the best directions for sustainable habitat development.
