Exploring Parameters and Conceptualizing Design for Transitional

Shelters in Kerala

Aparna Joy and Manju G Nair

1
Department of Architecture and Planning, College of Engineering Trivandrum/APJ Abdul
Kalam Technological University, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India,
aparna.joy2195@gmail.com
2
Department of Architecture and Planning, College of Engineering Trivandrum/APJ
Abdul Kalam Technological University, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India,
manjugnair@cet.ac.in

ABSTRACT
Purpose
This research responds to the escalating disaster frequency and urgent demand for efficient relief
shelters in Kerala, addressing challenges such as inadequate facilities, resettlement issues, education
disruptions, and comfort concerns. The aim of this research is to conceptualize and explore the
parameters for a Kerala-adapted transitional shelter.
Methodology
The methodology comprises a comparative study of existing transitional shelters, evaluating comfort,
emissions, and suitable materials. Additionally, a literature review and insights from diverse contexts
inform design and construction fundamentals, considering Kerala's relief shelter challenges.
Acknowledging non-permanent standards, the proposed shelter meets minimum living requirements
and can be dismantled after a specified period.
Findings
This research proposes a sustainable model for a Kerala-adapted transitional shelter, emphasizing
thermal comfort, construction assembly, and intrinsic building qualities. Utilizing LCA, embodied
energy calculations and simulations to optimize thermal comfort, ventilation, and daylighting.
Originality
The paper's originality lies in exploring transitional structures post-disaster in Kerala, offering a
practical solution for immediate shelter needs and establishing a foundation for sustainable,
deployable transitional shelters.
Keywords: Transitional shelter, Thermal analysis, Post disaster, Temporary shelter design

1 INTRODUCTION

This research responds to the escalating disaster frequency and urgent demand for efficient
relief shelters in Kerala, addressing challenges such as inadequate facilities, resettlement
issues, education disruptions, and comfort concerns. The aim of this research is to
conceptualize and explore the parameters for a Kerala-adapted transitional shelter.
BRIEF INTRODUCTION ON THE TOPIC
In recent years, Kerala has experienced an alarming increase in the frequency and intensity of
disasters, ranging from floods to cyclones, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.
5642.68 km2 of area which is 14.52% of the total area of the state is prone to floods[1].
In Alappuzha district more than 50% percentage of area is identified as flood prone. This
surge in disasters has highlighted the pressing need for efficient relief shelters that can swiftly
address the challenges faced by displaced individuals. This research endeavours to respond to
this urgent demand by focusing on the evolution of transitional shelters in Kerala, with a
particular emphasis on overcoming challenges such as inadequate facilities, resettlement
issues, education disruptions, and comfort concerns[1].
One of the foremost challenges that this research seeks to address is the inadequacy of
existing shelter facilities in the face of escalating disaster events. Often, the available shelters
fall short of providing the necessary space, amenities, and comfort for the displaced
population. This inadequacy further exacerbates the difficulties faced by individuals who are
already grappling with the trauma of displacement. By recognizing and addressing these
limitations, the research aims to contribute to the creation of shelters that not only fulfil the
basic needs of the affected individuals but also provide a semblance of normalcy and comfort
during trying times.
Resettlement issues pose another significant hurdle in the aftermath of disasters. Displaced
individuals often find it challenging to reintegrate into their communities due to a lack of
proper planning and support. This research delves into developing shelter solutions that
facilitate smoother resettlement processes. By understanding the socio-economic dynamics of
the affected areas and incorporating community feedback into the design process, the
transitional shelters aim to foster a sense of belonging and ease the transition for those who
have lost their homes.
A transitional shelter plays a pivotal role in situations demanding prolonged habitation.
Serving as a temporary yet long-term solution, these shelters are designed to be assembled
swiftly and dismantled when no longer needed. The flexibility of these structures allows for
reuse, addressing future needs. Furthermore, their adaptability makes them suitable for
various shelter purposes beyond their initial deployment, enhancing their overall utility in
dynamic and evolving scenarios
Comfort concerns, both physical and psychological, form a pivotal aspect of this research.
Displacement is an inherently traumatic experience, and providing comfort to the affected
population is essential for their overall well-being. The transitional shelters aim to address
these concerns by prioritizing elements such as ventilation, lighting, and privacy.
State’s Responsibility in Relief
According to Section 19 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, the State Authorities shall
lay down detailed guidelines for providing standards of relief to persons affected by disaster
in the state and such standards shall in no case be less than the minimum standards in the
guidelines laid down by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
The Minimum Standards of Relief laid by KSDMA contains the following:
• Temporary Shelters
• Vector control in Temporary Shelters
• Food
• Water
• Health
• Sanitation and Hygiene
• Waste Management

2 LITERATURE REVIEW

Temporary shelters are defined as structures designed to safeguard individuals and families
residing in communities susceptible to disaster.[2] The necessity for temporary shelters arises
when disaster survivors are unable to inhabit their previous homes, and simultaneously, the
construction of new permanent residences remains incomplete. One primary challenge
involves understanding the dynamics and factors influencing the reconstruction of dwellings,
including variations in resource availability across different recovery environments. Another
obstacle lies in the time required to adapt or reconstruct affected dwellings, as well as
determining methods to establish innovative housing solutions[2]. The primary hurdles in
mitigating shelter vulnerability encompass factors that added complexity to the process of
granting permanent housing. These challenges include obstacles in identifying and verifying
land ownership, as well as the local administration's inability to efficiently manage the
process in a timely manner[3]. In India, immediate humanitarian responses to disasters
typically entail relocating people away from areas prone to risks. Scholars contend that
rehabilitation should be integrated into a comprehensive, long-term recovery strategy,
informed by thorough socio-economic and risk assessments, and supported by appropriate
monitoring frameworks. The primary aim of the recovery effort is to empower affected
communities to enhance their overall well-being through activities such as reconstructing
physical infrastructure, providing emotional support, creating livelihood opportunities, and
fostering socio-cultural and economic development. However, hastily executed relocation
efforts following a disaster can exacerbate issues, particularly when residents are hurried and
pressured.[4]

Greene and Schulz have examined the insights gleaned from the Loma Prieta earthquake
regarding emergency shelter and housing matters.[5] They have addressed key concerns
within three distinct yet interconnected phases of post-earthquake housing:

(1) Emergency shelter;

(2) Temporary housing; and
(3) Permanent or replacement housing.

Figure 1 : Standards
The minimum standards of relief set forth by the Kerala State Disaster Management
Authority (KSDMA)encompass various crucial aspects. These include provisions for
Temporary Shelters, Vector Control in Temporary Shelters, Food, Water, Health, Sanitation
and Hygiene, and Waste Management. Key highlights from the minimum standards for
temporary shelters/relief camps, as outlined by the KSDMA, include the avoidance of
educational buildings whenever possible. Instead, community centers, wedding halls, or any
other enclosed safe spaces available in the locality are recommended. The relief centers are
required to provide a minimum covered area of 3.5 square meters per person (as per Revenue
standards), with basic lighting facilities being made available.[1] In mountainous areas, the
required area per person may be relaxed to 2.5 square meters. Additionally, specific attention
is given to ensuring safety, security, and privacy, particularly for vulnerable groups such as
women, persons with disabilities (PWD), widows, elderly individuals, and children. These
standards collectively aim to establish a robust framework for temporary shelters that
prioritizes the well-being and dignity of those affected by disasters.[11]

Figure 2 - Minimum Standards of Relief (Source: Author)

Source: Author, KSDMA, Kerala State Minimum Standards of Relief

 The study concentrates on the design and provision of transitional shelters, which remain
a significant challenge for governmental and humanitarian organizations in disaster
situations. Transitional shelters are deemed essential for ensuring personal safety,
climate protection, security, and resilience against diseases and health issues (IFRC/RCS,
2013). Typically, these shelters serve as temporary accommodations until displaced
individuals are relocated to safer areas or their original locations are rehabilitated. The
duration of use for transitional shelters can vary from several months to years depending
on local conditions. Hence, numerous factors must be considered when planning and
designing such shelters. [12]

When designing temporary shelter units, several primary goals must be considered:

User Requirements under Extraordinary Circumstances:

Prioritize meeting the needs and preferences of users during challenging circumstances,
such as natural disasters or humanitarian crises. This involves ensuring the shelter's
functionality, safety, and comfort align with the unique requirements of those utilizing it
during emergencies.

Temporary and Multiple Use of the Unit:

Design shelters that are versatile and adaptable for temporary use in various scenarios.
These units should be easily deployable and capable of serving multiple purposes, such
as emergency housing, medical facilities, or communal spaces, to maximize their utility
and effectiveness.

Achieving Minimum Negative Environmental Impact:

Strive to minimize the environmental footprint of temporary shelter units across all
stages, from manufacturing and deployment to use and decommissioning. This includes
selecting eco-friendly materials, implementing sustainable construction practices, and
promoting energy efficiency and waste reduction to mitigate environmental harm.

3 METHODOLOGY

Research in the area of design is often multidisciplinary and involves the consideration
of many different factors, including social, psychological and economic aspects, along
with engineering and technology. A design research which looks at the reconstruction
 and recovery phase of disaster management, as in the case of the current research, can be
classified as social science- based research (Rohrmann, 1998).

4.1 2005 - The Kashmir Earthquake

Figure 3: Building qualities

 The catastrophic earthquake that struck Kashmir in October 2005 took a terrible toll,
leaving 3.5 million people without a place to live and over 75,000 dead. The prompt
shelter response turned out to be critical, saving more lives, averting mass displacement,
and providing essential support at the site of origin. [9]With an impressive 90%
compliance rate for safer standards, the rural housing reconstruction program was able to
repair and reconstruct 611,000 houses in just four years. This coordinated effort proved
to be a successful response to a major humanitarian crisis in addition to meeting
immediate housing needs. The results demonstrate resiliency and dedication, exhibiting
successful interventions in community reconstruction and guaranteeing the safety of
individuals impacted by the earthquake in Kashmir.

4.2 2005 - The Phailin Cyclone

Figure 4 Figure 5 :
Figure 6
Shelters in the construction-based category involve the utilization of salvaged or locally
available materials. These structures are either constructed on-site (in-situ) or off-site
(ex-situ) using resources sourced locally or from external non-local suppliers.[9]
Additionally, these shelters incorporate salvaged and reused materials from collapsed
houses, further complemented by the integration of local technology and traditional
building expertise. This approach emphasizes sustainability by harnessing readily
available resources and leveraging traditional knowledge, fostering a resilient and
environmentally conscious method for creating shelters..

IDENTIFICATION OF PARAMETERS
IDENTIFICATION OF PARAMETERS
5.1.1 ISSUES FACED BY USERS

The main issues faced by the users are security, inclusivity, shelter conditions. Many
complained about the lack of natural light and ventilation. Also, leaks, flooding and other
weather-related issues. To solve these issues the position and size of openings should be
considered for the context and to avoid leaks material and construction techniques need to be
chosen carefully. They can either be locally available materials or other sustainable materials.
For addressing privacy issues and access to proper sanitation single module units can be
proposed where each module will hold a family or family-like group. The health issues while
staying in groups can be controlled if people are staying as small batches.
The no. of people, personal belongings storage all can be cleaner in single modules. Personal
space and adequate area per person is helpful in the psychological well being of the people.
In case of longer duration of stay livelihood opportunity for the users can also be considered
as they may have lost theirs in the disaster or need to recover their old dwelling and require
time to clean their homes parallelly. Flexibility in work is crucial in these situations.
5.1.2BUILDING FUNCTONS

Figure 7 : SOURCE: AUTHOR

To optimize building performance and enhance user experience, several key considerations
must be addressed in shelter design. One crucial aspect is ensuring flexibility, ease of
construction, and efficient transportation and assembly processes. By minimizing the
dimensions and quantity of construction members, the overall weight and complexity of the
shelter can be reduced, facilitating swift deployment and minimizing logistical challenges.
Additionally, designing for easy dismantling after use ensures efficient resource utilization
and minimizes environmental impact, aligning with sustainability goals.
Architectural quality is paramount in promoting the psychological well-being of shelter
occupants. Aesthetically pleasing design elements, thoughtful spatial organization, and
attention to detail contribute to a sense of comfort and security, fostering a positive living
environment. Visual connections to the surrounding landscape and incorporation of mobility
nodes enhance the overall quality of the shelter, promoting a sense of connection to the
environment and facilitating movement within the space.
Furthermore, effective ventilation provisions are essential for maintaining indoor air quality
and thermal comfort. Strategic placement of openings and ventilation systems facilitates
natural airflow, reducing the reliance on mechanical ventilation and improving energy
efficiency. Proper ventilation also plays a crucial role in preventing the buildup of moisture
and mold, safeguarding the health and well-being of occupants.
4 PARAMETERS - Key findings and Conclusion

1. The maximum number of days individuals can reside in an emergency shelter,

typically less than one month, influences the design considerations. For a family size
of 4-5 people, an area ranging from 200 to 500 square feet is recommended. Utilizing
a calculation of 3.5 square feet per person, the shelter's area requirement would be 20
square feet per person.
2. The imperative for transitional shelters to be provided within the first two weeks after
a disaster event underscores the need for efficiency in construction time.
3. This urgency necessitates easy access to the place of permanent residence for affected
individuals. Furthermore, in the design process, considerations such as common
spaces access and community participation must be integrated, ensuring the cultural
needs of the affected population are adequately addressed.
4. In addition to these considerations, identifying suitable materials specific to the
region is crucial, facilitating the construction of transitional shelters tailored to various
lifestyles through the implementation of different layout options

Figure 8 SOURCE: AUTHOR

5 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The research aimed to explore parameters and conceptualize designs for transitional
shelters in Kerala, drawing insights from standards, case studies across regions, and
specific challenges observed in Kerala's transitional shelters. Key findings and
discussions are summarized as follows:

Durability and Spatial Standards:

• Transitional shelters in Kerala must withstand the rigors of post-disaster scenarios for
a minimum of 2-3 years, necessitating adherence to spatial standards and quality.

• Addressing societal needs requires technical solutions that consider context, climate,
and community requirements, ensuring shelter resilience and longevity.

Shelter Design Considerations:

• A swiftly deployable, temporary modular structure is envisioned to cater to diverse

needs in emergent situations.

• User feedback highlighted issues of security, inclusivity, and shelter conditions,

including insufficient natural light, ventilation, leaks, and weather-related challenges.

• To address privacy and sanitation concerns, single module units accommodating a

family or family-like group are recommended.

• Health concerns in group settings can be mitigated through smaller batch stays, while
single modules offer better organization of personal belongings and improved
psychological well-being.

• Consideration for livelihood opportunities during longer stays is crucial for users to
recover from the disaster's impact and restore their old dwellings parallelly.

Design Flexibility and Architectural Quality:

• Flexibility in design, construction, transportation, assembly, and dismantling enhances

building performance and ease of use.

• Architectural quality contributes significantly to users' psychological well-being, with

visual connections, and adequate openings and ventilation provisions enhancing
shelter quality.
Occupancy and Access:

• The design should accommodate the maximum number of days individuals can reside,
, with recommendations for an area ranging from 200 to 500 square feet for a family
of 4-5 people.

• Timely provision of transitional shelters within the first two weeks after a disaster
event is essential, requiring efficient construction and easy access to permanent
residence locations.

Cultural Integration and Material Selection:

• Integration of common spaces, community participation, and cultural considerations

ensures that shelter designs resonate with the affected population's needs and
preferences.

• Selection of suitable materials, whether locally available or sustainable alternatives, is

crucial for constructing transitional shelters tailored to various lifestyles and
preferences

Lifecycle Assessment and Monitoring:

• Conduct lifecycle assessments to evaluate the environmental impacts of the shelter

from cradle to grave, considering factors such as materials, construction, operation,
and end-of-life disposal.

6 CONCLUSIONS

In the humanitarian sector, there exists a broad spectrum of opinions regarding the
efficacy of transitional shelter, as noted by Shelter Centre (2012, p. 5). Some proponents
advocate for it as a valuable participatory process that empowers beneficiaries in
rebuilding their homes. Conversely, others vehemently oppose it, viewing it as an
expensive and potentially damaging intervention that diverts resources away from
permanent reconstruction efforts (Shelter Centre, 2012, p. 5). This opposition, as
suggested by Shelter Centre (2012, p. 5), often stems from a lack of understanding
regarding the transitional shelter approach—its definition and how it differs from other
methods of reconstruction
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