Socioeconomic characteristics of calcutta slums: An analysis of intervention policies

Abstract

Slums in the major cities of developing countries are primarily the result of the migration of the rural poor to urban areas. The metropolis of Calcutta (now Kolkata) has also witnessed its fair share of growth in slums during the past several decades. Through this study the authors examine the socioeconomic characteristics of slums in the Calcutta Metropolis, meaning the Calcutta Metropolitan Area (CMA). The study also considers the origin and socioeconomic basis of formation and proliferation of these slums. The problems and prospect of physical development of these slums have also been examined along with an assessment on upward mobility of slum dwellers toward a better quality of life. Thereafter, an attempt is made to make an appraisal of the process and contents of social development initiatives for alleviation of poverty over time in the CMA.