Slums and squatter settlements are characterized by overcrowding, inadequate housing, and limited access to basic services such as sanitation, healthcare, and education. They are found in both developing and developed countries and are caused by various factors. Here are some of the causes and effects of slums and squatter settlements:
Causes:
Urbanization: As people migrate from rural to urban areas in search of better opportunities, they often end up in slums and squatter settlements due to a lack of affordable housing.
Poverty: People living in poverty are often unable to afford decent housing and may be forced to live in slums and squatter settlements.
Limited access to land: Some people may be unable to access land for housing due to a lack of formal property rights or high land prices.
Natural disasters: Natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes can displace people and force them to live in slums and squatter settlements.
Political instability: Conflict and political instability can also contribute to the growth of slums and squatter settlements as people are forced to flee their homes and seek shelter elsewhere.
Effects:
Health problems: Slum and squatter settlement residents often face health problems due to poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and overcrowding. Diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and tuberculosis are more prevalent in these areas.
Poor living conditions: Residents of slums and squatter settlements often live in substandard housing with limited access to basic services such as electricity and clean water.
Limited economic opportunities: Residents of slums and squatter settlements may face limited economic opportunities due to a lack of access to education and job opportunities.
Social marginalization: Residents of slums and squatter settlements may be socially marginalized and excluded from mainstream society, leading to social and economic inequalities.
Environmental degradation: Slums and squatter settlements can lead to environmental degradation, including the pollution of air and water and the destruction of natural habitats.
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