The biggest hurdle the rescue workers faced by rescue workers during the safety operations in the recent floods in Kerala was the compound walls of houses. It not only worsened the crisis of inundation but also made rescue efforts difficult.
As the state is still recovering from the devastating effect, it's time for a rethink on the construction of compound walls of houses in Kerala, considering the state's unique topography and climate.
The biggest disadvantage of a wall is that it hampers the natural flow of water and blocks breeze. When flooding occurs, the wall increases the intensity of inundation. Moreover, an escape route through the neighbouring plot is blocked when a wall is built.
During the floods, several rescue boats developed leaks after the sharp ends of metal grills fixed on top of compound walls pierced their hull.
Most people believe that high walls can prevent robbers from entering their house premises. But in reality no wall can stop a determined thief.If the safety of vehicles parked in front of the house is a major concern all that is needed is a wall of just two feet high.
It may be ensured that every wall has openings at the ground level to allow passage of water. These openings have to be at least 10 cm in diameter and positioned at intervals of 2 m.
If privacy is the issue, the height of the wall can be raised by setting up a tall fence or a lattice-shaped wall on which climbers can be grown.
Another method to block the view from the street is to build a two-feet-high wall and fix treated bamboo stems or PVC pipes at intervals on it. Climbers can then be grown on the bamboo or pipes. Use of metal has to be minimised or avoided altogether if possible.
Several plants are ideal for being grown on walls. They include passion fruit, Rangoon climber, Thunbergia, Wild Allamanda, Cypress vine (akasamulla) and Clitoria ternatea (sankhupushapam).
A wall can be built on the front side of a house, but it may be avoided on the other sides.
To mark the boundary of a plot, a green wall can be set up. In the past, plants like Pergularia daemia (veliparuthi), Cassia (konna) and hibiscus served as the fence in Kerala. To give such fences a modern look, landscaping methods can be adopted. Plants like miniature bamboo, Eugenia, golden Cyprus and conifer are suitable as fences.
Wherever a high wall is present between houses, the owners may demolish a small part of it and install a wicket gate. This will also provide an escape route during an emergency.
