A slum is an overcrowded urban area characterized by substandard housing and inadequate access to basic services such as clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. Slums are often associated with poverty and lack of infrastructure.
Step 1: Characteristics of Slums
1. Poor Housing Conditions: Slums are often made up of poorly constructed and makeshift homes, lacking proper ventilation, sanitation, and structural integrity.
2. Overcrowding: These areas are typically overcrowded, with many people living in small spaces, leading to poor living conditions.
3. Lack of Basic Services: Slum dwellers often lack access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and education.
4. Health Risks: The poor living conditions in slums contribute to health risks such as respiratory issues, infectious diseases, and inadequate nutrition.
5. Social Issues: Slums often experience high levels of unemployment, crime, and social inequality.