Terracing

Indian cities have experienced unforeseen population growth over the last two decades and this trend is expected to continue over the next two decades. With increasing population, the housing stock will grow manifold and affordable housing will be the biggest challenge to meet. One of the greatest fallouts of rapid urbanization is seen in dilapidated and congested dwellings for the economically weaker segment of the urban population. Both private developers and government schemes which cater to this segment of housing need to ensure digni ed and comfortable living for the urban poor.

IRD - Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (Research Institute for Development) - is a research organization based in France that is working with its partners in the South to address international development issues. Improving health, understanding social changes, and protecting the environment are the main pillars of its work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). IRD work includes interdisciplinary scientific research, capacity building and nurturing innovation in more than fifty countries worldwide. 

Description

The ancient Andean technique of terracing consists of making cuts in steep slopes to form contour ridges and establish cultivation surfaces that are supported by stone walls. Because the terraces are positioned perpendicular to the flow of water they reduce erosion, retain soil and moisture and thus generate a microclimate conducive to crop growth.