Transforming Slum Dwellings into Better Livable units: An approach through minimum Intervention

Abstract

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh and the 9th largest city in terms of population, is like an urban melting pot bubbling over with population and a city which is forever changing and never finished for it’s over population. When Cities are out of control of population density problems, informal urban development is perceived as a consequence of uneven urban growth. The crisis of Dhaka city disables the conventional planning faculty and requests the formulation of alternatives that will integrate architecture of informality into the whole urban structure. This paper tried to figure out the poor living conditions at Duaripara slum which is in the north-western part of Mirpur Thana at Dhaka North City Corporation. Through research and hands-on inclusive solutions, the paper proposed options for their better living condition. Analyzing the present condition of light, ventilation and temperature inside the houses, this research shows how quality of life might be improved through nurturing the opening condition and insulation system of the existing house, which is very much affordable for the slum dwellers, but unfortunately, they are unaware of it. The innovative solutions and increase in skills of informal builders can uplift the permanent up-gradation to informal settlements. Literature study and field survey have helped to develop module design for the improved living conditions that can be retrofitted in existing built forms with minimum intervention. As we are now living in the cutting edge of technology, this small but inclusive initiative may open up big opportunities to upgrade the living conditions of the settlement of slums in Bangladesh and elsewhere with similar existing context.