As cities around the world strive towards modernization and urbanization with the ambitious goal of achieving ‘world-class city’ status, it is crucial to recognize and address the potential consequences that accompany this progress. While technological advancements and economic growth can enhance city life, they can also exacerbate existing inequalities and create new challenges.
A critical issue arising from rapid urbanization is the push of many individuals into the informal economy, which often leads to life in slums. People relocate to urban areas seeking better healthcare, education, and job opportunities. However, they frequently encounter harsh realities that drive them into informal work and slum living. This paradox underscores a troubling aspect of urban development: while cities may become more technologically advanced, the gap between the wealthy and the impoverished often widens.
Urbanism encompasses more than just technological progress; it includes both opportunities and challenges. While advancements in infrastructure and technology can enhance quality of life, they can also exacerbate existing inequalities. In India,Mumbai, one of the country’s most prosperous cities, is home to Dharavi, one of the largest and most famous slums in the world. Despite the city’s economic growth and modernization efforts, Dharavi remains a symbol of the profound disparities within urban areas. Similarly, in Delhi, neighbourhoods like Seelampur and Khader provide a glimpse into the challenges faced by those living in informal settlements, despite ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and services.
Efforts to beautify urban areas often divert attention from addressing critical issues faced by disadvantaged communities. Upgrading public spaces and developing high-end commercial districts can enhance a city’s global image but may inadvertently neglect the needs of those living in slums. This focus on aesthetics can hinder meaningful progress in improving the living conditions of the most vulnerable populations.
Moreover, despite governmental efforts to improve conditions for marginalized communities, results are frequently limited. Both government and private entities face obstacles such as insufficient funds, ineffective programs, corruption, and bureaucratic inefficiencies. An often observed issue is that individuals from slums provided with housing may return to their previous living conditions due to unaffordable additional expenses.
