Shanty town

Shanty Town

A shanty town is a settlement of improvised housing, typically made from materials such as plywood, corrugated metal, sheets of plastic, and cardboard boxes. These settlements often arise in areas of extreme poverty and are usually found on the periphery of cities, especially in developing countries.

Characteristics

Shanty towns are characterized by:

• Lack of infrastructure: They often lack basic services such as running water, electricity, sanitation, and waste collection.
• High population density: Due to the lack of affordable housing, many people live in close quarters.
• Informal economy: Residents often work in informal sectors, lacking job security and benefits.
• Vulnerability to hazards: Shanty towns are often located in areas prone to natural disasters, such as floodplains or unstable hillsides.

Causes

The formation of shanty towns is often driven by:

• Rural-urban migration: People move to cities in search of better economic opportunities but find housing unaffordable.
• Economic inequality: Disparities in wealth distribution can lead to the development of informal settlements.
• Lack of affordable housing: Rapid urbanization without corresponding housing development leads to housing shortages.

Social and Health Implications

Living in a shanty town can have significant social and health implications:

• Health risks: Poor sanitation and lack of clean water can lead to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera and dysentery.
• Education challenges: Children in shanty towns may have limited access to education due to economic constraints and lack of nearby schools.
• Social stigma: Residents may face discrimination and social exclusion.

Examples

Some well-known shanty towns include:

• Kibera in Nairobi, Kenya
• Rocinha in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Dharavi in Mumbai, India

Efforts to Improve Conditions

Various efforts have been made to improve conditions in shanty towns, including:

• Slum upgrading projects: These involve improving infrastructure and services within the settlements.
• Community-based initiatives: Empowering residents to take part in decision-making and development processes.
• Government policies: Implementing policies to provide affordable housing and improve urban planning.

Also see

• Slum
• Urbanization
• Informal economy
• Poverty