A shanty town is a settlement characterized by makeshift, often temporary, and substandard housing, typically found in urban areas of developing countries.
A shanty town, also known as a squatter settlement, slum, or favela depending on the region, is a type of informal housing area that emerges in urban centers of developing countries. These settlements are often formed by marginalized and low-income populations who lack access to proper housing and basic services. Shanty towns are constructed using improvised materials such as corrugated metal, wood, and cardboard, resulting in precarious structures that offer little protection against the elements.
The residents of shanty towns often face numerous challenges, including limited access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and healthcare. Due to their informal nature and lack of legal recognition, shanty town dwellers are often denied access to essential services and may live in constant fear of eviction. The rapid growth of shanty towns is fueled by rural-urban migration, where people move to cities in search of better opportunities and living conditions, only to find themselves trapped in a cycle of poverty and informality.
In many cases, governments and non-governmental organizations work to improve conditions in shanty towns by implementing development programs aimed at providing better housing, infrastructure, and social services. However, the scale of the problem remains daunting, and addressing the issues faced by shanty town residents requires comprehensive and sustainable approaches.
In conclusion, shanty towns are impoverished settlements characterized by makeshift dwellings, inadequate living conditions, and limited access to essential services. Addressing the challenges of shanty towns necessitates a holistic approach that considers the economic, social, and political factors contributing to their formation and seeks to empower residents with better opportunities and living standards.