Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering

2025, Vol. 10, No. 2, pp. 75-80

https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251002.13

Research Article

Flood-Resistant Sustainable Housing in Jamalpur District,

Bangladesh
Md Rafiur Rahman1, *, Md Mohiuddin Mamun1, Nadim Hasan1,
Hussain Muhammad Abdullah1, Iqbal Hossain Imon1, Gonojit Paul1,
Shariful Haque Sammo1, Al-Rafi Islam1, Syed Md. Sanjid Alahi Alif2,
Fatema Marzia Pramanik2, Shekh Nazia Islam Tamme2, Sadman Sakib2,
Kazi Naeem Hossain2, Md Rofiul Islam Rofi3, Tahia Rabbee4
1
Department of Civil Engineering, Mymensingh Engineering College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
2
Department of Civil Engineering, KM Humayun Kabir Engineering College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
3
Department of Textile Engineering, National Institute of Textile Engineering & Research (NITER), Dhaka, Bangladesh
4
Department of Civil Engineering, Mymensingh Engineering College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Abstract
Bangladesh is frequently flooded because of its position, which has an impact on livelihoods and housing structures. The
Brahmaputra River runs through the Jamalpur District, making it extremely susceptible to periodic flooding. Heavy monsoon
rains, coupled with riverbank erosion, further exacerbate the problem, leading to displacement and significant property damage.
The rising threat of climate change is expected to intensify these challenges, necessitating innovative flood-resilient housing
solutions. The purpose of this study is to create a sustainable and flood-resistant home concept that is appropriate for the area. To
suggest a novel flood-resilient dwelling design, a variety of building methods, eco-friendly materials, and climate adaptation
tactics are examined. The study explores traditional stilt houses, amphibious architecture, and floating home technologies to
determine the most viable approach for flood-prone communities. Additionally, locally sourced, low-cost materials such as
bamboo, compressed earth blocks, and recycled plastic are considered to enhance affordability and sustainability.To identify the
ideal elevation and structural reinforcements needed for resilience, the analysis incorporates historical flood data. This includes
assessing past flood levels, frequency, and duration to establish reliable flood-proofing benchmarks. Advanced GIS mapping and
remote sensing techniques are utilized to identify high-risk zones and plan strategic housing layouts. A thorough approach is
used, which includes cost-effective material assessment, structural modelling, and hydrological data analysis. To ensure practical
implementation, stakeholder engagement with local communities, policymakers, and engineers is conducted, allowing for
inclusive decision-making. Furthermore, energy-efficient features such as passive cooling, rainwater harvesting, and solar power
integration are explored to enhance long-term sustainability.In line with sustainable development objectives, the results provide a
workable and expandable solution for areas vulnerable to flooding. By integrating resilience, affordability, and sustainability, this
study presents a scalable housing model that can be replicated across flood-prone regions in Bangladesh and beyond.

*
Corresponding author:

Received: 10 February 2025; Accepted: 17 March 2025; Published: 31 March 2025

Copyright: © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group. This is an Open Access article, distributed
under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which
permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering http://www.sciencepg.com/journal/jccee

Keywords
Flood-resistant Housing, Jamalpur, Sustainability, Climate Adaptation, Resilient Construction

1. Introduction
One of the worst natural disasters to hit Bangladesh is cates that bamboo-reinforced concrete, recycled plastic
flooding, which has disastrous effects on livelihoods, agri- composites, and ferrocement panels are promising materials
culture, and housing infrastructure [1]. The nation is particu- for cost-effective, flood-resistant construction [15]. Moreover,
larly vulnerable to seasonal floods due to its low-lying terrain the integration of floating sanitation solutions and wa-
and extensive river system, which are exacerbated by climate ter-harvesting systems can improve hygiene and water secu-
change and rising sea levels [2]. The Brahmaputra River and rity in flood-prone regions [16].
its tributaries cause severe and recurrent floods in Jamalpur A key aspect of this research is evaluating economic feasi-
District, affecting thousands of people and leading to signif- bility, as low-income households in Jamalpur often struggle
icant economic losses [3]. Studies indicate that flood-induced with financing resilient housing [17]. To address this, the
damages in Jamalpur disrupt agriculture, housing, and public study analyzes cost-benefit comparisons of traditional versus
health, increasing the prevalence of waterborne diseases and flood-resistant housing models and explores potential fi-
displacement [4]. nancing solutions such as microcredit, government subsidies,
In Jamalpur, traditional homes are frequently built using and NGO support [18]. Additionally, previous studies em-
mud walls and thatched roofs, which are structurally inade- phasize that community-based disaster preparedness and
quate to withstand prolonged flooding [5]. Many houses col- participatory housing programs enhance the success of
lapse or deteriorate quickly during floods, forcing communi- flood-resistant construction initiatives [19].
ties to rebuild frequently, exacerbating financial hardships [6]. By synthesizing hydrological data, material assessments,
The lack of access to durable construction materials and fi- and structural modeling, this study provides a comprehensive
nancial constraints further hinder efforts to establish resilient approach to designing flood-resistant housing in Jamalpur
housing solutions [7]. Additionally, studies highlight that [20]. The findings aim to contribute to national and regional
current flood mitigation strategies, such as embankments and flood adaptation strategies, aligning with Bangladesh’s cli-
flood forecasting, have limitations, necessitating sustainable mate resilience and sustainable development goals [21].
and innovative housing alternatives [8]. Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to flooding due to its
Several flood-resistant housing concepts have been ex- low-lying geography, monsoon climate, and the impacts of
plored globally, including floating houses, amphibious foun- climate change. Frequent floods not only displace communi-
dations, and elevated stilt houses, but their feasibility in ties but also cause significant damage to homes and infra-
Jamalpur's socio-economic and hydrological context remains structure, necessitating the adoption of resilient construction
underexplored [9]. Traditional flood adaptation methods in practices. To address these challenges, flood-prone commu-
Bangladesh, such as elevated plinths and bamboo structures, nities have implemented innovative housing solutions that
provide some resistance to flooding, but they lack long-term elevate homes and strengthen communal support systems,
sustainability and structural integrity [10]. Researchers sug- enhancing resilience against recurring disasters [22]. Addi-
gest that flood-resistant housing must integrate cost-effective, tionally, the use of flood damage-resistant materials, as rec-
locally available materials, and innovative architectural de- ommended by engineering guidelines, plays a crucial role in
signs to enhance resilience [11]. minimizing structural deterioration and ensuring long-term
This study examines various flood-resistant housing con- durability in flood-affected regions [23].
cepts and assesses their practicality for the Jamalpur District,
focusing on socioeconomic viability, environmental sustain-
ability, and long-term resilience [12]. By incorporating am- 2. Study Area and Flood Characteristics
phibious foundations, raised platforms, and structurally rein-
The Brahmaputra floodplain, which includes the Jamalpur
forced materials, the proposed designs aim to enhance dura-
District, is distinguished by its low-lying terrain, heavy
bility while ensuring affordability for low-income communi-
monsoon rainfall, and intricate river dynamics [1]. The district
ties [13].
frequently faces floods during the monsoon season due to its
In addition to structural improvements, climate-responsive
humid subtropical climate, which receives between 2,000 and
building techniques such as ventilated wall systems, sustain-
3,000 mm of rainfall annually [2]. One of the world's largest
able roofing materials, and energy-efficient housing are ex-
rivers, the Brahmaputra, has a major impact on the hydro-
plored to increase flood resilience [14]. Research also indi-

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logical patterns of the area and frequently causes extensive compared utilizing a thorough cost-benefit analysis. In order
flooding of communities and agricultural areas [3]. to guarantee affordability for low-income neighborhoods, the
Major floods occur every three to five years, according to study looks at building costs, maintenance costs, and
flood statistics from the Bangladesh Water Development long-term economic advantages. Additionally, financing pos-
Board (BWDB), and water levels rise by 1.5 to 3 meters above sibilities are examined, such as government subsidies and
ground level [4]. In 1988, 1998, 2004, and 2020, severe floods microfinance programs
caused significant damage to houses, farmlands, and infra-
structure, forcing thousands of people to relocate [5]. Exces-
sive monsoon rainfall, Himalayan glacier melt, and the area's 4. Planning of Housing
proximity to major river confluences are the primary causes of
Climate resilience, sustainability, and usability are all taken
these floods [6].
into consideration while designing flood-resistant houses in
Jamalpur's topography makes it highly vulnerable to
the Jamalpur District. The dwelling design ensures accessi-
flooding, as approximately 70% of the area is low-lying and
bility during floods while adhering to the principles of space
has inadequate drainage systems [7]. Significant socioeco-
efficiency. In order to reduce the effects of flooding, it places
nomic disruptions result from the district's variable floodwa-
a high priority on effective land use, ventilation, and emer-
ter retention time, with some areas remaining submerged for
gency preparedness measures. Durability and flexibility to
weeks [8]. Food insecurity, soil erosion, waterborne disease
shifting climatic circumstances are improved by the incor-
outbreaks, and damage to residential structures are among the
poration of elevated structures and environmentally friendly
most severe consequences of these flood events [9].
materials.
In Jamalpur, community-based disaster preparedness pro-
Floor Plan and Elevation Drawing
grams, flood forecasting systems, and embankment construc-
A single-story raised building supported by reinforced
tion have all been implemented to mitigate flood risks [10].
concrete stilts ensures stability against powerful water cur-
However, these measures have often proven inadequate in the
rents in the suggested flood-resistant home style.
face of severe floods, highlighting the need for locally adapted
1. The layout, which includes a kitchen, a raised patio, a
flood-resistant housing solutions [11]. By developing sus-
sanitation unit, and two bedrooms, offers protection
tainable housing models that incorporate elevated foundations,
from flooding.
flood-resilient materials, and adaptable architectural features,
2. The entire built-up area is 40 square meters (8m×5m),
this project aims to enhance resilience against recurrent floods
with an efficient layout.
[12].
In order to survive extreme floods, the elevation was raised
by 2.5 meters.
3. Methodology
This study employs a multi-faceted methodology:
1. Hydrological Analysis
To evaluate past flood patterns, peak water levels, and flood
recurrence intervals, remote sensing images and flood data
from the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) are
evaluated. To identify high-risk areas and choose appropriate
sites for flood-resistant homes, Geographic Information Sys-
tem (GIS) mapping is utilized
2. Material Selection
The strength, durability, and availability of sustainable and
flood-resistant materials such bamboo, ferrocement, and re-
cycled plastic composites are assessed. The cost-effectiveness
and environmental impact of these materials are evaluated by
comparing them to traditional construction materials.
3. Structural Design Figure 1. Floor Plan of the Flood-Resistant House.
A variety of housing concepts, such as floating homes,
amphibious housing, and raised stilt houses, are evaluated
according to their cost, structural stability, and capacity to Table 1. Structural Elements and Materials Used.
adapt to flood conditions. Designs are optimized for resilience
and load-bearing capability using computational modeling Component Material Used Characteristics
and structural analysis methods.
4. Economic Feasibility Flood-resistant,
Foundation RCC Piles with Timber
Traditional versus flood-resistant dwelling styles are load-bearing

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Component Material Used Characteristics

Lightweight, wa-
Walls Ferrocement & Bamboo
ter-resistant
Roof Recycled Plastic Sheets Waterproof, durable
Flooring GRC Panels Strong, flood-resistant

Figure 4. Plan of pile with pile cap.

6. Working Method of the Building

A methodical execution strategy is followed during con-
struction to guarantee longevity and cost effectiveness.
Figure 2. Elevation View of the Housing Model. Site preparation: Using mapping of flood risk, a thorough
land survey is carried out to find appropriate sites. Before
foundation construction starts, the site is leveled, compacted,
5. Designing Housing and removed of debris to guarantee stability. Drainage chan-
nels are designed to effectively handle surplus water.
The design of the housing structure takes material strength Foundation Work: To provide the structure a solid basis,
and hydrodynamic load calculations into account. timber piles are pushed deep into the earth. After that, pile
caps made of reinforced concrete are poured to distribute
5.1. Foundation Design loads uniformly and avoid settling problems. This method
guarantees the foundation's stability even after extended ex-
1. For structural stability, RCC pile covers are utilized to posure to flooding.
strengthen timber piles. Roof and Flooring: To create a lightweight, weatherproof
2. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) blocks used in floating covering, recycled plastic sheets are utilized for roofing. Glass
foundations provide resistance to water depths of up to Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GRC) panels, which are
three meters. long-lasting and water-resistant, make up the flooring.
Long-term wear and tear is decreased since the elevated
5.2. Wall and Roof Design flooring has less direct contact with floods.
Final Touches: To stop leaks, the structure is waterproofed,
1. Walls: Water-resistant lightweight ferrocement panels making sure all seams and surfaces are sealed. To increase
strengthened with bamboo. lifespan, water-resistant paints are used to paint the house. To
2. Roof: Recycled plastic roofing that is slanted for effec- increase overall sustainability and usefulness, further finish-
tive drainage. ing touches are added, including putting emergency exits,
3. Ventilation: For better air circulation, cross-ventilation is water storage tanks, and solar panels.
included.

7. Construction Details
The construction utilizes local materials and labor, ensuring
affordability. The expected completion time is 90 days for a
single-unit house.

Figure 3. Details of reinforcement in pile cap.

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Table 2. Construction Timeline and Cost Estimate. ing model's economic potential. This strategy supports
community-led housing projects and long-term resilience
Estimated Cost against climate-induced disasters by utilizing eco-friendly
Phase Duration (Days)
(USD)
construction practices.
Additionally, the model's design optimizes ventilation,
Site Preparation 7 500
space utilization, and energy efficiency, enhancing overall
Foundation Work 15 1500 living conditions for vulnerable communities.
Superstructure 30 3000 The following are some benefits of the suggested model: •
Flood Resilience: The elevated and floating design lowers the
Roofing & Flooring 20 2000 chance of flood damage.
Finishing Works 18 1500 1. Sustainability: Using recyclable and renewable materi-
als reduces the impact on the environment.
Total 90 8500
2. Affordability: The model is within the means of
low-income households thanks to economical building
materials and methods.
8. Results and Discussion 3. Structural Durability: Long-term resistance to severe
weather conditions is ensured by reinforced structure.
8.1. Flood Resilience Assessment 4. Scalability: Other flood-prone areas may easily replicate
the modular architecture.
1. The floating foundation technology keeps the building Limitations and Difficulties:
operational even during extreme floods, and the home 1. Initial expenditures: Compared to conventional home
can endure floodwater levels of up to three meters, types, there are higher upfront building expenditures.
guaranteeing safety and structural integrity. 2. Material Availability: Not all places may have easy ac-
2. Compared to traditional homes, the use of lightweight, cess to certain sustainable resources.
sustainable materials lowers overall building costs by 3. Community Awareness: Large-scale adoption may be
30%. hampered by a lack of knowledge and instruction on
sustainable construction methods.
8.2. Environmental and Economic Benefits 4. Policy and Financial Support: For widespread adoption,
government incentives, financial support, and policy
1. Eco-friendly Materials: Compared to traditional ce- integration are necessary.
ment-based buildings, the use of bamboo and recycled Future studies should concentrate on evaluating com-
plastic lowers carbon emissions by 40%. munity-based projects, financial incentives, and govern-
2. Cost-effectiveness: Low-income households may afford mental regulations that might promote the broad use of
it since the anticipated building cost is 30% less than that flood-resistant housing options. To guarantee effective
of conventional brick and mortar homes. adaptation, government agencies, non-governmental or-
3. Long-Term Sustainability: The construction may endure ganizations, and local communities must work together
for more than 50 years with the right upkeep, greatly during large-scale implementation. Additionally, adding
enhancing resistance in regions that are vulnerable to renewable energy sources like solar panels and rainwater
flooding. collecting devices might improve the sustainability of the
concept as a whole. By taking these factors into consider-
ation, this study offers a thorough plan for flood-resilient
9. Conclusion housing that may be modified for use in different
This study tackles the persistent problems caused by ex- flood-prone areas around the globe.
treme floods by presenting a novel flood-resistant sustaina-
ble home type designed for Jamalpur District. Elevated
Abbreviations
platforms, floating foundations, and sustainable materials
are all included in the suggested home plan, guaranteeing a RCC Reinforced Cement Concrete
strong, flexible building that can endure floods. Utilizing EPS Expanded Polystyrene
locally accessible resources like recycled plastic, bamboo, GRC Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete
and ferrocement improves cost while reducing environ- GIS Geographic Information System
mental effect. By adding reinforced concrete stilts, structural BWDB Bangladesh Water Development Board
stability is achieved and sensitivity to hydrodynamic forces NGO Non Governmental Organization
is decreased.
The study shows that flood-resistant housing may be both
affordable and sustainable, highlighting the suggested hous-

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[12] Kabir, M. E., Chowdhury, M. A., & Hossain, M. M. (2019).

Conflicts of Interest Cost-benefit analysis of sustainable housing materials in
Authors declare no conflict of Interest. flood-prone regions of Bangladesh. Sustainable Cities and
Society, 46, 101419.

[13] Khan, M. S., & Sarker, M. H. (2021). Economic feasibility of

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