Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram   

Utilise modern systems to meet housing needs: Kalam

Special Correspondent

Eight-point agenda for implementing the Habitat project

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam has called for the utilisation of modern knowledge systems such as nanotechnology to address rural and urban housing problems relating to efficient use of resources.

Laying the foundation stone for the Habitat Centre, jointly being set up by the Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited (HUDCO) and the Kerala State Housing Board (KSHB) here on Thursday, Mr. Kalam urged designers and architects to think of ways that would integrate development with nature.

Mr. Kalam also presented an eight-point agenda for HUDCO while implementing the Habitat project that would be a model for the country in efficient use of energy, waste management, water harvesting and management, clean environment, compassion for physically and visually handicapped. He also wanted HUDCO to promote the green building concept.

Referring to how concepts regarding solar cooking had changed over the years, Dr. Kalam said he had the occasion to witness a presentation of what nanotechnology could do in reducing electricity consumption. Habitat projects should use such technologies to reduce conception. "Nanotechnology will be able to provide optimal and efficient lighting system and could do away with grid supply of electricity," he said. He expressed the hope that HUDCO and the State Government would be able to bring in tremendous progress in the expansion of facilities in rural areas.

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said that 90 per cent of the funds spent in the housing sector was for weaker sections. Stating that the Habitat Centre would have triple effect and would go a long way to address the compliant that the State Capital does not have the infrastructure to promote investments.

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