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Informal Settlements

Informal settlements, often called slums or shantytowns, are communities where people live in makeshift housing without legal ownership of the land. These areas typically arise due to rapid urbanization, poverty, and lack of affordable housing. Residents often face challenges like limited access to basic services such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity. Although informal settlements are often perceived negatively, they reflect people’s resilience and resourcefulness as they adapt to their circumstances. Addressing the issues in these areas is vital for improving living conditions and ensuring social equity in urban planning.

Additional Insights

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    Informal settlements are communities that often arise in urban areas, typically characterized by inadequate housing and lack of proper services such as water, electricity, and sanitation. Residents usually build homes without formal land rights or government approval, which can lead to challenges like legal insecurity and limited access to public services. These areas are often the result of rapid urbanization, where people move to cities seeking better opportunities but cannot afford formal housing. Informal settlements can vary in size and conditions, ranging from simple shanties to more established neighborhoods.

  • Image for Informal Settlements

    Informal settlements are communities where people live without official approval or proper infrastructure. These areas often develop due to rapid urbanization, where a significant number of people migrate to cities in search of better opportunities. In these settlements, housing is usually self-built and lacks basic services like water, sanitation, and electricity. While informal settlements can provide affordable living options, they often face challenges such as overcrowding, inadequate health services, and vulnerability to eviction. Understanding these communities is crucial for developing effective policies to improve living conditions and address urban challenges.