muhammadhafeezmalik
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Dubai to have world's first 3D-printed mosque
The emirate of Dubai is planning to build the world's first 3D-printed mosque which will be ready by early 2025. According to a report by The National last week, Dubai's Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) announced that construction of the 2,000 square metre mosque in Bur Dubai will start in October and once completed, the mosque will accommodate 600 worshippers. Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the UAE.
The director of IACAD's engineering department, Ali Al-Suwaidi said in a press conference that "The cost is 30 per cent higher than building the mosque in the normal way because it is the first of its kind in the world."
"We expect the cost will be similar in the future with 30 years building guarantee," he added.
3D printers and national security
If curbs remain in place, digital divide between Pakistan and world will widen
While the world is fighting a pandemic and preparing for an impending recession, it seems trivial to discuss 3D printers. But this trivial example does indicate bigger issues at work in public policy.
For starters, the 3D printing process builds a three-dimensional object from a computer-aided design model, usually by successively adding material layer by layer, which is why it is also called additive manufacturing.
The world is entering the fourth industrial revolution, which is mostly based on technologies like robotics and 3D printing. Engineers and designers are now already working remotely and making products with high precision using 3D printers.
3D printing offers an excellent avenue to improve housing, food supplies, healthcare and educational facilities. Due to the intricate nature of the emerging trend of Internet of Things (IoT), no country can afford to restrict the use of 3D printers.
Unfortunately, Pakistan has rather restrictive policies for the import of 3D printers, with the procedure being cumbersome and time-consuming. In 2016, Pakistan placed a ban on the import of 3D printers, citing threats to national security as these printers could be used to manufacture illicit weapons.
While it is correct that some components of weapons can be made through this technology, 3D printing of the most important parts like the chamber or the barrel is extremely difficult, requiring high resistance to heat and explosion. It is much easier to make such parts from a milling machine than a 3D printer.
Countries like Jordan and Thailand, which had imposed restrictions, have now allowed the import to kick-start innovation in industries, healthcare and educational sectors. It is high time for Pakistan to take cue from these countries and allow the import of 3D printers with minimum restrictions.
3D printers and national security | The Express Tribune
If curbs remain in place, digital divide between Pakistan and world will widen
