Since, they believe in achieving effective technology transfer at the grassroots level and since they work in a more localized area, namely in and around Mysore, they have been able to slowly but steadily make inroads into the construction markets. Along with like-minded architects, engineers, contractors, mason and building material entrepreneurs, they have been able to construct a sizable number of buildings using appropriate technologies. These buildings are raking up curiosity in the local people who get interested mainly due to cost-reduction and environmental benefits that these technologies offer.
CART has trained many masons and master masons in production and use of mud blocks, and they have now become independent entrepreneurs.
For example Mr. Shiv Kumar who was initially an employee of CART is now a private entrepreneur who runs a compressed, stabilized mud block-manufacturing unit.
Mr. Ramesh, an engineer and also a former employee of CART, now undertakes private building contracts providing design and construction solutions using appropriate technologies. He initially convinces his clients by showing them the cost reduction benefits of these technologies, and later also explains them about the additional advantages which fully convince them.
Members form CART were surprised during one of their field visits to discover that some of their local masons have built their own houses using filler slabs. This they believe is an indicator of effective technology transfer, wherein the building movement spreads and sustains without their direct involvement or control. |
