Chinese architects have proposed the construction of skyscrapers from containers in the Dharavi slum in the Indian city of Mumbai.
The idea is to build two skyscrapers with an area of 26.693 square meters and 78.383 square meters. The first tower will rise to a height of 78 floors, and the second tower will rise to 139 floors. Both structures are intended as residential properties with apartments to be fitted with air conditioning and water treatment systems. Some of the containers will be water tanks.
Skyscrapers from containers are proposed to be installed on a foundation of concrete and steel. The architects estimate that 4,500 containers will be needed to accommodate about 1,300 families, providing them with safe housing in the slums.
The layouts of apartments according to the plans of Chinese architects may be different. They range from options where the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen are pressed into one container, to three-room mansions using several containers. However, each apartment will have air conditioners and water recycling systems.
A skyscraper made from containers will face a number of serious problems. For example, the only protection against the heat of metal boxes is vertical gardens and gaps between structures, so the summer will be exhausting for those who cannot afford to run the aforementioned air conditioners.
In addition, the containers will require so many modifications that the cost advantages over standard construction methods may not be noticeable.
However, ideas for designing safe and affordable housing for areas like the Dharavi slums are much needed. Each of the proposed options is considered and discussed.
