squatter settlements

Question 1

what are the environmental problems in squatter settlements?

Answer 1

1. Rubbish disposal:
   - Incinerated rubbish can cause fires in wooden houses
   - Smoke leads to air pollution
   - Uncollected rubbish breeds disease in hot climates
   - Chemicals in rubbish piles are biohazards
2. Heavy storms cause mudslides, loss of life, and habitat destruction
3. Poor sanitation leads to pollution of water bodies
4. High population density causes overcrowding, insufficient water, and energy resources
5. Open sewers cause floods and stagnant water, leading to diseases (e.g., dengue fever)
6. Only 50% of residents have access to indoor toilets

Question 2

what are the socio-economic problems of squatter settlemets?

Answer 2

• Controlled by drug gangs, leading to shootouts
• Overcrowding (up to 6 million people) leads to cramped living and poor quality of life
• Low incomes cause families to suffer from starvation, poor hygiene, and waste mismanagement

Question 3

how should we improve the living conditions of squatters?

Answer 3

1. Infrastructure:
   - Water supply systems for clean drinking water
   - Garbage collection points and incineration plants to manage waste
   - Educational institutions to create a skilled workforce
2. Self-help efforts:
   - Recycle rubbish to reuse resources and promote sustainability
   - Community cleanup for infrastructure maintenance and safety
   - Self-help projects to inform authorities of community needs