Chhetri said they had already sounded the Guwahati-based Cane and Bamboo Technology Centre for lending its expertise on bamboo construction.

"An official of the centre was here a few days back, and gave us a very positive response," said Chhetri.

The benefits of using bamboo as the main construction material, Chhetri said, were twofold: one, it is environment-friendly and cost effective; and two, since bamboo is available in plenty in Kalimpong, local people will stand to benefit economically if the material is sourced from them.

The committee is also using bamboo to barricade landslide-hit portions of the six acre area adjoining the dumpyard. "Earlier this year, we had constructed a network of drains in the area to flush out water without taking any government aid," said Chhetri.

The people of the area have been at loggerheads with the Kalimpong Municipality and the sub-divisional administration over the use of the dumpyard since June 5.

The residents have steadfastly refused to allow the dumping in their area as they believe the muck has contributed to the problem of landslide, while the civic body has struggled to find an alternative spot to dump the daily garbage.