For some years Development Alternatives has been one of the leaders in India's search for alternative building technologies. Their latest publication "Instruction Manual for Appropriate Building Systems" produced in cooperation with the Building Materials technology Promotion Council will only enhance their reputation for quality work.

The book does not reveal any new technologies, it concentrates on what is now well tried and tested; building materials and techniques that can lower the cost of construction.

The format makes it easy for the reader to decide which material or technique is most suitable for their purposes and fits their budget. Each technology is presented under several different headings, introduction to the material, how to build with it nad how much would it cost. Another section describes how to actually produce selected materials.

Each page is an interesting mixture of clear, simple live sketches, written description and comparison to other materials through graphs.
The book is a must for planners, architects, engineers & builders with interest in utilising any of the existing alternative construction technologies that are abound in India today.

At rupees 150, the cost is small considering the quality of production and the vast amount of information contained within its pages.

Roger R. M. Bonner (First Secretary (Buildings), British Council Division, British High Commission