Traditional Approaches to Construction and Building Techniques: A Case Study of the Galo Tribe in Kadu Village, Koyu Circle, Lower Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh

Abstract

This study explores the traditional construction techniques of the Galo Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh, Particularly, in Kadu village, highlighting the relationship between architecture, geography, and sustainability. The study examines the materials, methods, and cultural aspects of traditional Galo housing while also addressing the modern influences shaping contemporary building practices. Galo houses, primarily stilt structures, are designed to suit the regions humid subtropical climate, providing protection against floods, pests, and dampness. Constructed using bamboo, cane, timber and toko patta or taek, these houses reflect a deep understanding of local resources and environmental adaptability. The study also explores the role of bamboo and cane-based craftsmanship, linking traditional construction with broader handicraft and handloom culture of Arunachal Pradesh. However, modernization had led to changes, with an increasing preference for more durable construction methods using cement, tin roofs, and hybrid structures, altering traditional architectural practices. This paper examines the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge while integrating sustainable and climate-resilient solutions for the future, and in doing so, provides a comprehensive insight into the architectural heritage of Galo tribe.