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 northwestern 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.