INFRASTRUCTURE FOR THE URBAN-POOR - POLICY AND PLANNING ISSUES

Traditional modes of providing physical infrastructure on unimproved settlements for the urban poor are unlikely to meet the ever-increasing demand for services. New policies for implementation, management and use of more appropriate technologies are required. Conventional high levels of service are shown not to be affordable. An alternative policy strategy involving a participatory support approach is explored. This plans for the provision of 'primary level' services with view to subsequent upgrading, which is to be managed by householders and communities. Implications for households, communities and institutions are addressed, and reference is made to the experiences of the low cost sanitation and sewerage programme of the Orangi Pilot Project in Pakistan.