Urban informal settlements

Urban informal settlements are areas within cities where residents live without official authorization or proper planning. Often called slums or shantytowns, these neighborhoods typically lack formal infrastructure such as secure housing, reliable water, sanitation, and roads. They usually develop due to rapid urbanization and the inability of city governments to provide adequate housing for all. Despite their informal status, many residents build their homes with limited resources, creating tight-knit communities. These settlements highlight challenges around urban growth, inequality, and access to services, but they also reveal residents' resilience and adaptability in shaping their living environments.