Understanding the Migrant Experience in Hyderabad’s Informal Settlements
The rapid urbanization of Hyderabad, India has led to the proliferation of informal settlements, home to a diverse population of migrant workers seeking economic opportunity. These informal settlements, often referred to as “slums,” face a myriad of challenges in accessing basic water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services – a critical issue that disproportionately impacts migrant communities.
Migrants arriving in Hyderabad from rural areas or other states typically settle in these informal settlements, lured by the promise of jobs and a better life. However, the reality they face is one of substandard living conditions, limited access to essential services, and marginalization from the city’s development efforts. “Many migrants live in cramped, makeshift shelters without access to clean water or proper sanitation facilities,” explains Priya Sharma, a community organizer working in Hyderabad’s slums. “This not only compromises their health and dignity but also perpetuates cycles of poverty and social exclusion.”
The unique challenges faced by migrant populations in Hyderabad’s informal settlements stem from a combination of factors, including their precarious legal status, language barriers, and cultural differences. As temporary residents, migrants often lack the necessary documentation or political connections to assert their rights and access municipal services. Additionally, the influx of diverse migrant communities, each with their own customs and needs, can strain the capacity of local authorities to deliver tailored WASH solutions.
Barriers to WASH Access for Migrant Populations
Lack of Secure Land Tenure
One of the primary obstacles to improving WASH services in Hyderabad’s informal settlements is the lack of secure land tenure for migrant residents. “Without legal ownership or recognized occupancy rights, migrants are unable to access government schemes or formally register for basic services,” says Aisha Begum, a community leader in the Banjara Hills slum. This precarious status leaves them vulnerable to eviction, disrupting any long-term investment in WASH infrastructure or community development.
Language and Cultural Barriers
Migrant populations in Hyderabad’s informal settlements often come from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, making it challenging for local authorities to effectively communicate and engage with them. “Many migrants speak languages other than Telugu or Hindi, the dominant languages in the city,” explains Suresh Kumar, a social worker. “This creates barriers in accessing information about government programs, understanding health and hygiene practices, and participating in community decision-making processes.”
Limited Representation and Political Marginalization
Migrant communities in Hyderabad’s informal settlements frequently lack a strong political voice, limiting their ability to advocate for improved WASH services and hold local authorities accountable. “Migrants are often viewed as temporary residents or outsiders, with little to no representation in local government or community leadership structures,” says Priya Sharma. “This perpetuates a cycle of neglect, where their needs are overlooked in the city’s development plans.”
Inadequate WASH Infrastructure and Service Delivery
The sheer pace of urbanization and the growth of informal settlements in Hyderabad have overwhelmed the city’s infrastructure and service delivery capabilities. “The municipal water and sanitation systems simply cannot keep up with the demand, leading to severe shortages and unsanitary conditions in these communities,” explains Aisha Begum. Migrant residents are disproportionately affected, as they often live in the most marginalized areas with the least access to basic WASH amenities.
Innovative Approaches to Improving WASH Access for Migrants
To address the unique WASH challenges faced by migrant populations in Hyderabad’s informal settlements, a multifaceted approach is necessary, one that combines community engagement, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships.
Secure Land Tenure and Regularization of Informal Settlements
One key priority is to ensure secure land tenure and the regularization of informal settlements where migrants reside. “By providing legal recognition and occupancy rights, we can empower migrant communities to invest in their homes and engage with local authorities to improve WASH services,” says Suresh Kumar. This can be achieved through collaborative efforts between civil society organizations, local governments, and community leaders.
Targeted WASH Interventions and Service Delivery
Tailored WASH interventions that address the specific needs of migrant communities are essential. This includes the installation of community-managed water points, public sanitation facilities, and waste management systems designed with input from migrant residents. “We’ve seen success in partnering with migrant-led community groups to co-create and maintain these WASH assets,” explains Priya Sharma. “This approach fosters a sense of ownership and ensures the long-term sustainability of the services.”
Multilingual Outreach and Cultural Sensitivity
Effective outreach and engagement with migrant communities require overcoming language and cultural barriers. “Our team works closely with migrant leaders and volunteers to develop health education materials and conduct awareness campaigns in multiple languages,” says Aisha Begum. “We also incorporate cultural practices and traditions into our WASH promotion activities to build trust and foster community buy-in.”
Inclusive Governance and Political Representation
Empowering migrant communities to have a stronger voice in local decision-making processes is crucial. “We’ve supported the formation of migrant community groups and provided training on advocacy and negotiation skills,” explains Suresh Kumar. “This has enabled them to engage with municipal authorities and influence the allocation of WASH resources in their neighborhoods.”
Collaborative Partnerships and Knowledge Sharing
Leveraging the expertise and resources of diverse stakeholders is key to addressing the WASH challenges faced by migrant populations. “We’ve collaborated with NGOs, research institutions, and private sector partners to pilot innovative WASH technologies, share best practices, and secure funding for community-led initiatives,” says Priya Sharma. “By fostering these collaborative partnerships, we can scale up effective solutions and advocate for more inclusive WASH policies at the city and state levels.”
Toward Inclusive and Sustainable WASH Solutions
Addressing the unique WASH challenges faced by migrant populations in Hyderabad’s informal settlements requires a holistic and collaborative approach. By prioritizing secure land tenure, targeted service delivery, multilingual outreach, inclusive governance, and strategic partnerships, we can empower these marginalized communities and work towards the realization of the human right to water and sanitation for all.
As Aisha Begum eloquently states, “Every person, regardless of their migration status or socioeconomic background, deserves access to clean water, safe sanitation, and a healthy living environment. By investing in the WASH needs of migrant communities, we not only improve their quality of life but also contribute to the overall resilience and sustainability of Hyderabad’s urban development.”
To learn more about the Joint Action for Water’s initiatives to support WASH access for migrant populations, please visit https://jointactionforwater.org/.
