Condoms Used to Waterproof Roads
09 August
2004:
New Delhi: About 20% to 25% of condoms manufactured in India are used
for sexual activity and the rest are used to waterproof roofs, roads
and polish gold embroidered garments, according to a recent study, it
was reported yesterday.
The report, prepared by Prof Ramakant of King George's Medical
University of Lucknow, capital of the northern Indian state of Uttar
Pradesh, says 75% to 80% of condoms produced annually are used for
commercial purposes, the Asian Age newspaper reported.
In urban areas, condoms are purchased in bulk by civil contractors and
mixed with concrete and tar to make roads. The latex in the condoms
helps make the roads smooth and resistant to cracks, the report says.
Similarly, builders spread condoms on the layer that lies beneath the
cement plaster on roofs and as heat penetrates they expand to form a
waterproof layer that prevents seepage.
Condoms are also used in large quantities by manufacturers of gold
embroidered saris, the 11-yard garments worn by Indian women. Workers
use the lubricated condoms to polish the gold embroidery.
Earlier, the workers used was which had to be melted first and was
cumbersome to use in winter when it turned lumpish in seconds.
“Since we started using condoms three years ago, polishing has become
easier and the finish is better and lasts longer,” a worker in Lucknow
was quoted as saying.
Ramakant's report lists various uses of the condom in rural India. “in
some places, we found condoms were used to carry water when people went
to answer nature's call in the open".
dpa, The Star
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