Urban Incrementalism: A study of Incremental Housing production and its inclusion in SRA for EWS

URBAN INCREMENTALISM

A study of incrementAl housing production And its inclusion in srA housing for Ews in surAt And AhmedAbAd.

Author: khyAti goswAmi

guide : imrAn mAnsuri

1. PREFACE

1.1 Abstract......................................................................04

1.2 Keywords ...................................................................04

1.3 Acknowledgement......................................................05

1.4 Scope and Limitation..................................................06

1.5 Need of Study.............................................................07

2. RESEARCH PROPOSAL

2.1 Introduction............................................................... 10

2.1.1 Informal settlements: Retaining Values..........11

2.1.2 Incremental housing for affordable SRA..........11

2.2 Aim .............................................................................12

2.3 Objectives...................................................................13

3. METHODOLOGY AND ANALYSIS

3.1 Framework of Analysis ..............................................16

3.2 Data Collection Description Method..........................17

3.3 Case Study Selection Criteria......................................18

3.4 Mind Map : Challenges..............................................19

3.5 Introduction to Analysis.............................................20

3.5.1 Introduction : General Issues............................20

3.5.2 Issues associated with Live – Work...................22

3.5.3 SRA ...................................................................24

3.5.4 Issues in SRA .....................................................25

3.6 Case Study : Informal Housing ...................................26

3.6.1 Maan Darvaja and Nehrunagar.......................26

3.7 Case Study : Formal Housing .....................................30

3.7.1 Bhestan Avas Yojana ......................................30

3.7.2 Kosad Avas Yojana...........................................36

3.7.3 Bhavani Nagar Avas Yojana.............................41

3.8 Case Study : Conclusion.............................................42

3.9 Misconceptions .........................................................44

3.9.1 Introduction ....................................................44

3.9.2 Case specific Misconceptions...........................45

3.10 Introduction to incremental Approach......................46

3.10.1 Actual Idea of Incrementality........................46

3.10.2 Forces guiding Incrementality.......................49

3.10.3 Incrementality: As a concept.........................50

3.10.4 Global and Local References.........................51

4. REFERENCES : GLOBAL AND LOCAL

4.1 Global....................................................................52

4.1.1 Villa Verde housing .....................................52

4.1.2 Tila housing.................................................53

4.1.3 Quinta Monroy housing..............................54

4.1.4 Weston Williamson......................................55

4.2 Local......................................................................56

4.2.1 Yerwada, Pune.............................................56

4.3 Conclusive Inferences.............................................57

5. INTERPRETATIONS AND FINDINGS

5.1 Need for incrementality in SRA.............................62

5.2 Issues in inclusion of incrementality in SRA...........65

5.3 Findings.................................................................66

5.4 Conclusion.............................................................70

5.5 Scope for Future Study..........................................71

5.6 Bibliography..........................................................72

5.7 Literature Review..................................................74

5.8 Appendix...............................................................76

1. PREFACE

1.1 ABSTRACT

This study examines the problems and difficulties that arise in housing for EWS and Slum Rehabilitation Authorities (SRA) in various contexts, with an emphasis on two important local case studies: Surat and Ahmedabad. In order to meet the housing requirements of the EWS, the investigation looks at various housing programs through the perspective of incrementality. The opening section of the essay examines the common problems and difficulties EWS communities encounter while trying to find suitable and cheap housing in urban locations. It emphasizes the necessity of creative solutions to meet these difficulties and enhance the quality of life for EWS communities.

The SRA housing program and its execution in Surat and Ahmedabad are the subjects of the study. It critically assesses the SRA initiative's success in offering residents of slums and EWS communities affordable, sustainable home options. The study also explores incrementality's function within the SRA structure taking into account the ability to provide long-term adaptable housing alternatives that meet the changing demands of EWS residents.

The study investigates the actual implementation of incrementality in the framework of EWS and SRA housing via in-depth case studies of regional initiatives including Bhestan and Kosad Awas Yojna. It examines the advantages, difficulties, and results of incremental techniques, including individual empowerment, accessibility, involvement of the neighbourhood, and sustainability. The study also covers the institutional and policy backing needed to make incrementality deployment in EWS and SRA housing programs possible. It examines how effectively advocating and putting into practice incremental housing solutions involves the involvement of local authorities, urban planners, builders, and community stakeholders.

The investigation highlights the value of context-dependent strategies that take into account the particular socioeconomic and environmental variables of each region. Policymakers, designers, and other scholars can benefit from the study's insightful recommendations for improving the construction of housing programs that meet the requirements of EWS populations while promoting equitable and environmentally friendly urban growth.

1.2 KEYWORDS

Economically Weaker Section Upward Mobility

Issues in EWS

Basic Infrastructure

Slum Rehabilitation Authority Community development

Incrementality Affordability

Inclusion of Incrementality Flexibility

Sustainability

1.3 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to the successful completion of my thesis. This research journey has been a challenging yet rewarding experience, and I am deeply indebted to the following individuals and organizations for their invaluable support, guidance, and encouragement.

First and foremost, I extend my deepest appreciation to my thesis advisor Imran Mansuri, whose guidance, expertise, and continuous support have been instrumental in shaping and refining this work. Their insightful feedback, constructive criticism, and unwavering belief in my abilities have been crucial in steering me in the right direction throughout the research process.

I am also immensely grateful to the faculty members of CEPT University/Faculty of Architecture for their knowledge, inspiration, and dedication in imparting quality education and fostering an intellectually stimulating environment. Their passion for research and commitment to academic excellence have been truly inspiring. My heartfelt appreciation goes to the participants of this study, whose willingness to share their experiences and insights has contributed significantly to the richness and depth of the research findings. Their time, cooperation, and invaluable contributions are greatly appreciated.

My gratitude extends to my friends and family for their unwavering love, encouragement, and moral support during this challenging journey. Their belief in my abilities and their constant motivation have been a constant source of strength.

Lastly, I would like to express my profound appreciation to all the researchers, scholars, and authors whose works have laid the foundation for this study. Their groundbreaking research, scholarly contributions, and insightful publications have served as a guiding light, shaping the direction and methodology of my research.

Although it is not possible to acknowledge everyone individually, please know that your support, encouragement, and contributions have been deeply valued and appreciated. This thesis would not have been possible without your collective efforts.

Thank you all once again for being a part of this journey and for your invaluable contributions. Your support has been crucial in the successful completion of this thesis, and I am truly grateful for your presence in my academic life.

Financial Stability

With utmost appreciation, Khyati Goswami.

1.4 SCOPE AND LIMITATION

In particular, the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) housing structure is the subject of this study's examination of the efficiency of progressive housing as a remedy for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in the context of the neighborhood. The approach entails analyzing design approaches, procedures for execution, and socioeconomic effects of additional housing in SRA programs using arbitrarily selected case studies. Strategic sampling will also be used to highlight successful cases and show how progressive housing helps society at large.

A thorough grasp of the specific use of progressive housing for EWS communities may be gained from the randomly picked case studies underneath the local SRA housing environment. The purpose of the study is to learn more about the benefits and difficulties of adopting progressive housing underneath the SRA paradigm.

Strategic sampling is also included since it enables the selection of numerous case studies that represent different global settings, allowing for the assessment of the larger advantages and universal applicability of progressive housing for EWS groups.

However, it's critical to recognize this research strategy's constraints. The efficiency of progressive housing can vary based on social, economic, and geographical characteristics, hence the conclusions may not be fully generalizable outside of the specific local environment. The incorporation of all possible permutations of progressive housing developments within the regional environment may also be constrained by resource and time restrictions which could have an impact on the research's thoroughness.

Additionally, relying heavily upon site visits establishes subjectivity and possible biases in the gathering and analysis of data. These prejudicial assumptions will be reduced by the use of strict data analysis techniques and the involvement of many researchers to guarantee reliability.

1.5 NEED OF STUDY

This study is necessary because Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) have severe difficulties finding suitable housing. The need to look at sustainable solutions, such as incremental housing, is urgent given the housing scarcity and the presence of informal and unauthorized settlements. This study can improve the standard lifestyles for EWS communities and address social and economical inequalities by addressing the demand for cheap and feasible housing alternatives for those communities.

It is essential to comprehend the progressive housing solution's efficiency within the particular local environment. By performing randomly selected research investigations and site visits, this study seeks to address the knowledge gap that currently exists by offering insightful information on design tactics, community involvement, socioeconomic implications, and long-term viability. Policymakers, construction professionals, and urban planners can use these findings to build efficient methods and policies to meet the housing demands of EWS populations. The necessity for the study will eventually be determined by its potential to improve the lives of EWS people, promote participatory urban development, and lead the road for equitable cities.

2. RESEARCH PROPOSAL

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Low-income households in developing countries, such as India, face a crucial issue of inadequate affordable housing in urban areas. In Surat and Ahmedabad, urbanization has increased rapidly, giving rise to informal settlements and slums that are frequently characterized by substandard living conditions and health hazards. The difficulties that the EWS population has in finding suitable housing are complicated and multifaceted.

For the EWS population, the issue of insufficient housing has far-reaching effects. Poor living conditions can contribute to a variety of health issues, such as infectious and respiratory ailments. Waterborne infections can also result from inadequate sanitation infrastructure, endangering the health of the entire community. Furthermore, a lack of affordable housing options may lead to overpopulation, which raises further health and safety issues.

Furthermore, the EWS population may have serious social and economic consequences from a lack of access to safe and cheap housing. Because people may need to move frequently, housing instability might result in job loss. Because the EWS population may experience stigma and prejudice as a result of their living conditions, inadequate housing can also result in social exclusion.

2.1.1 Informal Settlements: Retaining Values for Sustainable Urban Development

Global report on human settlements 2003 is mainly concerned with the shelter conditions of the majority of the urban poor. How the poor struggle to survive within the urban areas, mainly through the informal shelters and informal income strategies. Why do we need to retain the values from the past? How one can do that without making a replica and by understanding the logic behind those kinds of settlements. Is it necessary to actually provide a formal mass-housing? If yes, then how and what are the parameters that could be retained from their informal settlements?

2.1.2 Incremental Housing for Affordable and Inclusive SRA Housing Projects

To address this housing problem, the study intends to investigate the potential of incremental housing that acts as a catalyst to provide low-income households with affordable, low-risk, and low investment housing options. The SRA (Slum Rehabilitation Authority) housing project, a government initiative aimed at rehabilitating slum inhabitants and offering them better homes, will be the subject of the study, which will then focus on the inclusion of an incremental approach in SRA housing. The study will also look at how the incremental approach can be included into formal SRA housing projects to make them more efficient and cost-effective. The project will examine the possible advantages of formal SRA housing through the lens of incrementality, including increased community involvement, lower building costs, upward mobility, and the capacity to adjust to evolving housing requirements over time.

2.2.1 DRP AIM

The research paper aims to study the parameters of formal SRA (slum redevelopment authority) housing and informal settlements, and compare the two, with a focus on understanding the challenges and issues in formal SRA housing from an incremental perspective.

2.2.2 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

• What are the challenges faced by the people of EWS housing associated with the live-work?

• Why is there a need for SRA housing and what are the challenges faced by the residents of the SRA housing in the current state?

• Why should an incremental housing approach be adopted?

• What are the forces guiding the adoption of an incremental approach in SRA housing?

• What is the scope of providing incrementality in the SRA housing?

• What are the benefits and drawbacks of incremental approach in SRA housing?

2.2.3 The Document:

• gives brief introduction to the topic of formal and informal settlements

• introduces various general Issues and challenges faced by EWS with different case studies

• introduces SRA initiative and their cases in Surat

• reviews the situation on site and presents with an observation and conclusion of each study according to the author's perspective ; conclusive inferences

• highlights the misconceptions of incrementality

• introduces the concept of incremental and its implications

• focuses on the benefits of incrementality

• concludes the paper with some comparative analysis, notes and expresses future works

2.3 OBJECTIVES

The core objective of the research is to identify the nature and complexities of informal housing through a combination of literature review/interviews; analyze and compare the parameters of formal Slum Redevelopment Authority (SRA) housing and informal settlements. The aforementioned can be achieved by the following:

• Reflecting on the insights of the two housing types, formal SRA and informal.

• To examine the existing policies, programs, and actions designed to offer affordable housing to the Economically Weaker Section (EWS)

(i) through the lens of live-work

(ii) to determine how well they are working to tackle the shortage of housing.

• Understanding the notion of incrementality in the context of EWS housing and its significance in addressing the housing scarcity for the economically poorer segments of the population.

• To recognize the guiding forces that promote or prevent the progress of incremental housing approach for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and to comprehend the diverse interferences encountered by the parties involved in the EWS housing development process through Global and local case studies.

• Understanding the progressive nature of EWS housing under the umbrella of affordable housing.

3. METHODOLOGY AND ANALYSIS

3.1 DETAILED METHODOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK OF ANALYSIS

HOUSING FOR REHABILITATED

3.2 DATA COLLECTION DESCRIPTION METHOD

Case

EWS (Economically Weaker Sections)

Case

Formal Settlements

• Data Sources: Primary data sources will include on-site observations, interviews with stakeholders involved in the housing projects (e.g., residents, architects, NGOs), and documentation of the housing process. Secondary data sources may include project reports, academic literature, and policy documents.

• Data Collection Techniques: On-site observations will be conducted to understand the physical layout, spatial organization, and infrastructure of the incremental housing projects. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with residents, architects, and other relevant stakeholders to gather their perspectives on the design, implementation process, and socio-economic impact.

• Sampling Strategy: Purposive sampling will be employed to select case studies that represent different regions, socio-economic contexts, and successful implementation of incremental housing. Key stakeholders and residents from each case study will be selected for interviews based on their involvement and experiences with the housing projects of SRA formal housing.

• Data Management: Collected data will be organized using a systematic approach, including transcription and coding of interview data, categorization of observations, and documentation of relevant project materials. Data management software may be utilized for efficient organization and analysis.

• Ethical Considerations: Ethical considerations will be addressed by obtaining informed consent from participants before conducting interviews. Anonymity and confidentiality of participants will be ensured, and their identities will be protected in any publications or reports.

• Data Validation and Reliability: Triangulation of data sources, such as comparing observations with interview responses or cross-referencing with project documentation, will be used to ensure data validity. Inter-rater reliability may be established through the involvement of multiple researchers in the data analysis process.

3.3 CASE STUDY SELECTION CRITERIA:

• Relevance: The case studies selected are clearly good examples of informal settlements and Formal settlements which relate to todays issues and challenges in the local and global context.

• Diversity: There is inclusion of a range of case studies that represent different geographical locations, socio-economic contexts, and cultural settings. This diversity will help in understanding the applicability and effectiveness of incremental housing in various contexts.

• Scale and Typology: Case studies chosen are that cover a range of scales and typologies of incremental housing projects, such as individual self-help housing, cooperative housing, or community-led housing initiatives. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the different approaches and their outcomes.

• Success Stories: In global refernces there is inclusion of case studies that have demonstrated successful outcomes in terms of improving the living conditions and socio-economic well-being of the EWS communities. Focus on projects that have achieved long-term sustainability and community empowerment.

• Challenges and Lessons Learned: Selected case studies highlight challenges, constraints, or lessons learned during the implementation of incremental housing projects. These case studies will provide valuable insights into the potential limitations and strategies to overcome them.

List of in-depth case Studies used are:

1. Informal Housing:

Maan Darwaja, Surat Nehrunagar, Surat

2. Formal Housing:

Bhestan Awas Yojna, Surat

Kosad Awas Yojna, Surat

Bhavani Nagar Avas Yojana, VASNA, Surat

List of references for Incremental housing are :

Global References:

• Villa Verde Housing

• Tila Housing

• Quinta Monroy Housing

• Weston Williamson Concept

Local References:

• Incremental housing in India: Yerwada Pune

METHODOLOGY AND ANALYSIS

3.4 MINDMAP OF CHALLENGES AND ISSUES IN EWS HOUSING

LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION

LIVELIHOOD

TYPOLOGY AND MORPHOLOGY

UNIT STACKING

OPEN V/S BUILT

WASTE MANAGEMENT

PERSONAL HYGIENE

ACECESS TO OPEN SPACES

SPATIAL ORGANISATION

INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT

THERMAL COMFORT

TEMPERATURE REGULATIONS

LIGHT / FENESTRATIONS

CROSS VENTILATION LIMITATIONS

POOR CONSTRUCTION

MATERIALS

UNSKILLED LABOURERS

ECONOMIC BARRIER

USER PREFERENCE

SOCIAL STIMATIZATION

COMMUNITY COHESION

CULTURAL SENSITIVITY

LIVE-WORK

CHALLENGES AND ISSUES IN EWS

SUSTAINABILITY

DESIGN LIMITATIONS

SPACE OPTIMIZATION

BUILDING CODES

TENURE SECURITY

LAND ACQUISITION CHALLENGES

GROWING FAMILIES UPWARD MOBILITY

CARRYING CAPACITY

EXPANSION

VERTICAL EXPANSION

HORIZONTAL EXPANSION

NUTRITION INADEQUACY

DISEASE PREVENTIONISSUES

INSUFFICIENT SERVIVES - LACK OF HEALTH CARE

NEIGHBORHOOD AND MICRO NEIGHBORHOOD

MOBILITY / TRANSPORTATION

LACK OF PUBLIC TRANSIT AVAILABILITY

VEHICAL OWNERSHIP

COMMUTING TIME

LACK OF MOBILITY OPTION

AFFORDABILITY BARRIERS

INCREMENTALITY

LIVE-WORK

INCOME INSTABILITY INADEQUATE FACILITIES

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

ECONOMIC VIABILITY

LACK OF BASIC INFRASTRUCTURE

SANITY

HEALTH AND HYGIENE

ACCESSIBILITY BARRIERS

LABOUR MARKET ACCESS

3.5 INTRODUCTION TO THE ANALYSIS

ISSUES AND CHALLENGES FACED BY EWS ASSOCIATED WITH LIVE - WORK

3.5.1 INTRODUCTION : GENERAL ISSUES

A live-work unit is a form of residential apartment in which residents can live and work in the same area. This form of housing is becoming increasingly common among low-income households because it allows them to establish and operate small businesses, producing extra revenue. The live-work spaces are particularly important for the economically weaker segments (EWS), who frequently struggle to find safe and reasonable living arrangements

The expensive cost of rent is one of the main obstacles that EWS encounters in getting live-work places. The lack of live-work opportunities can also have an effect on EWS's income. Many EWS may struggle to produce enough revenue to support themselves and their families if suitable business locations are not available. Furthermore, a lack of safe living and working environments can limit the kinds of companies that can be created, stifling economic growth and development.

EWS housing is confronted with a number of significant problems and difficulties. These problems can be broadly divided into three categories: physical, social, and economic challenges:

1. Physical Challenges:

• Availability of adequate space

• Cramped and congested spaces

• Limited open spaces

• Poor ventilation

• Inadequate natural lighting

• Lack of basic Amenities:

• Lack of water supply

• Lack of sanitation facilities

Uncomfortable and unhealthy living conditions may result from the aforementioned difficulties. Inadequate access to basic amenities can also result in unhygienic surroundings.

2. Social Challenges:

• Lack of community spaces

• Cultural conflicts

• Stigmatization

• Social isolation

• Discrimination

A major social issue for EWS housing is the absence of common spaces, which leads to social isolation and the deterioration of community ties. Additionally, the stigma associated with residing in EWS housing makes its people targets of prejudice and social marginalization.

3. Economical Challenges:

• Affordability of the housing

• Limited access to credit

• Financial Insecurity

• Lack of job opportunities

• High costs of land and construction

Economic difficulties are a major worry for EWS housing since citizens' access to affordable housing continues to be an issue. Due to the high cost of land and building, it is frequently difficult for EWS citizens to find permanent homes, which promotes the establishment of slums and informal settlements that are devoid of essential utilities and services. In addition, the scarcity of employment prospects and sources of income in EWS neighborhoods can exacerbate the problem of affordable housing by causing poverty and financial instability.

3.5.2 Issues faced by EWS associated with Live-Work

The following are the issues and challenges when we narrow down the problems faced by EWS associated with Live-Work typology;

1. Challenges associated with Live:

• High Cost: The high cost of rent is one of the key issues associated with the Live typology for EWS housing. Residents of EWS frequently experience financial hardship, let alone the cost of housing units, which can be excessively high.

• Lack of Basic Infrastructure: Residents of EWS may not have access to amenities for accessing electricity, water, or sanitation. It may be challenging to live in a secure environment as a result.

• Lack of space: The growing family and with that the growing needs of them, makes it difficult for the people living in EWS housing to accommodate and survive in the same space over a long time frame.

• Social Stigma: Living in EWS housing is associated with social stigma and discrimination, which can cause social exclusion.

2. Challenges associated with Work:

• Limited access to formal job opportunities: EWS people frequently have restricted access to formal employment prospects because of their inadequate educational backgrounds, lack of practical skills, and discrimination. Because of this, it is challenging for individuals to find permanent, well-paying employment, which results in poverty and financial instability.

• Informal and unstable work: In order to make ends meet, many EWS inhabitants turn to informal and insecure employment like street vending or hourly employment. This form of work frequently lacks security, stability, and benefits, making it challenging for employees to make long-term plans and investments in their companies or professional development.

• Exploitation and low wages: EWS workers are frequently exploited and paid inadequate salaries, especially in the informal sector where there is little control or regulation. This worsens poverty and financial instability, making it challenging for workers to raise their standard of living.

• Lack of training and skill development: EWS residents frequently do not have access to these opportunities, which may limit their job chances and earning potential. EWS people may find it challenging to compete in the job market and secure higher-paying positions without access to formal training and education.

• Discrimination and social exclusion: EWS workers frequently experience discrimination and social exclusion, which restricts their access to employment chances, educational opportunities, and social services. This makes it more challenging for residents of the EWS to improve their living circumstances and quality of life, and it can also perpetuate social inequality and poverty.

3. Challenges associated with Live-Work:

• Lack of Appropriate Spaces: Another issue is the scarcity of Appropriate Spaces for Live-Work Units. Many people who live in the EWS are compelled to work from home, which can be hazardous to their health or there is a scarcity of space to work and live together which can make it difficult to do business.

• Lack of Privacy: The merging of living and working areas may result in a significant loss of privacy for the EWS.

• Limited Business Opportunities: Combining living and working spaces may restrict the kinds of enterprises that may be started, which may have an effect on how much revenue can be made.

• Stigma: Living and working in the same location might add to the stigma attached to EWS housing, which can result in exclusion from society and discrimination.

• Limited Space: Live-work apartments frequently have small spaces, which can make it difficult for EWS to have both a place to live and a place to work.

Working from the same space, congestion, over-crowding.

Live-Work : Lack of space.

Local works such as selling jewelery and clothes.

3.5.3 SRA: A FORMAL HOUSING TYPE

Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis: The Indian Government's Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) Initiative

Economically Weaker Section (EWS) populations confront a serious problem when it comes to access to affordable housing in urban locations all over the world. To address this issue, the Indian government has implemented a number of programmes, notably the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) initiative. By redeveloping these regions with contemporary facilities and infrastructure, the SRA programme intends to provide official homes to individuals living in informal settlements and slums. However, despite government attempts, there is still a shortage of affordable housing in metropolitan areas, which has led to the creation of informal settlements.

Contrasting Formal Housing and Informal Housing: Key Differences and Living Conditions

Formal housing, commonly referred to as legal housing or planned housing, is housing projects built in accordance with legal requirements. Typically constructed on public property, these houses provide access to basic amenities like clean water, electricity, and sewage facilities. Contrarily, informal housing is frequently built on privately owned or illegally occupied land without government control or clearance. These homes, which are typically self-built by occupants, are devoid of necessities like sewerage and running water. These settlements' living conditions tend to be crowded, which restricts access to basic facilities.

Challenges and Limitations of the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) Program

The SRA plan is a legal housing attempt created to give EWS communities living in slums and informal settlements access to cheap housing. The program's goal is to raise residents' quality of life by giving them access to contemporary facilities. However, the program's success has been constrained by a number of issues, including the high expense of both land and construction, the absence of partnerships between the public and private sectors, and insufficient finance.

3.5.4 ISSUES IN SRA HOUSING

The following are the issues and challenges when we narrow down the problems faced by the SRA housing for economically weaker segments;

• Inadequate infrastructure upkeep.

• Inadequate accommodation for the growing families.

• The lack of privacy due to overcrowding conditions.

• Lack of communal spaces leading to social isolation.

• Unsuitable waste management solutions.

• Inadequate access to public transport.

• Absence of employment opportunities in the surroundings.

• Challenges associated with societal stigmatization and prejudice.

One significant problem that SRA residents experience is a dearth of appropriate housing maintenance and upkeep. Many of the structures are badly built and lack appropriate ventilation, which can contribute to health problems. Residents face significant difficulties due to a dearth of essential utilities such as water provision, sewage disposal, and waste management. Another problem is the socio economic difficulties that SRA residents experience. Many of them work as daily wage earners or in the informal sector, and they battle to make ends meet due to poor pay and irregular employment.

3.6 CASE STUDY : INFORMAL HOUSING

MAAN DARWAJA AND NEHRUNAGAR, SURAT

In Surat, Gujarat, there are two slum areas called Maan Darwaja and Nehrunagar. The city's EWS population, which has come from remote regions in pursuit of employment and better living circumstances, is largely concentrated in these communities. Rapid urbanization and a shortage of cheap alternatives to housing for those with minimal incomes are to blame for the emergence of the communities. The housing, health and hygiene, medical care, and educational needs of the people who live in these villages are severely limited. The standard of living in these settlements remains subpar notwithstanding the attempts of the government and other NGOs.

The absence of essential utilities including access to potable water, sanitary facilities, and electricity is one of the greatest problems these towns' inhabitants confront. Numerous homes use shared drinking water supplies, which are frequently contaminated and contribute to the propagation of waterborne illnesses. The residents' health is in danger because of the spread of diseases caused by improper sanitation facilities.

The absence of suitable housing options is another issue that the locals must deal with. The vast bulk of the dwelling units are improvised constructions constructed of weak materials like tarpaulin and tin sheets. Natural calamities like floods and strong winds can cause these buildings to collapse, risking the life of the occupants. The occupants' security and well-being are also at risk due to an absence of suitable housing options.

The inhabitants of these communities find it challenging to receive basic services like medical care and schooling due to the informal character of these communities. The distance between the closest hospitals and schools makes it challenging for the locals to get to them. The citizens' social and economic growth is also impacted by the absence of access to essential services.

These villages' inhabitants also struggle with societal shame and insecurity. Many locals work for meager daily pay and lack a reliable means of income. Because of this, they struggle to make sufficient money and frequently turn to take out loans with substantial interest rates from unofficial sources. They struggle to escape poverty as a result of the debt cycle that results from this.

Observations:

• Lack of basic amenities.

• Overcrowding and inadequate living situations.

• Housing structures and materials are of poor quality.

• Lack of access to amenities for medical care and schooling.

• Absence of employment opportunities.

• Absence of secure tenure and legal ownership.

• High levels of crime and insecurity.

• Social exclusion.

• Poor quality of public services.

• Poor ventilation and natural light.

• Low thermal comfort.

• Congestion and overcrowding.

Conclusive inference:

In conclusion, there are many different issues that the people who live in Surat's Maan Darwaja and Nehrunagar unofficial settlements must deal with. The citizens' standard of living is directly impacted by the absence of basic utilities, housing options, and access to fundamental services like medical care and schooling. These settlements' informality also breeds social shame and insecurity, which worsen the problems residents already confront. It is crucial that these problems are addressed in a holistic manner that considers all of the factors that are responsible for them. To develop inclusive, long-term approaches that can raise the living standards of those who live in these settlements, the government, groups from civil society, and the people themselves must collaborate.

Lack of natual light and good ventillation. Absence of structural stability.

Present condition of Informal settlement in Surat. Poor waste management systems and lack of hygiene and security.

Narrow passages, congestion, construction with local materials.

Live-Work coherence but there is a lack of seggregation of two spaces to work more efficiently.

INFORMAL INCREMENTS

Informal increments; as observed are unpredictable in nature and might cause non coherence with the rest of the surroundings, even though it generates a sense of identity it may lead to unsafe practices and disputes within community.

Mapped drawings show non coherence spaces leading to unforseen spaces that are hard to maintain.

Informal incrementation on the above floor, with locally available materials and almost neat to zero structural stability.

Congested naroow streets linking different other streets who meet together to form internal circulation. The passages are so closely built that there is no scope for any natural light to get in.

3.7 CASE STUDY : FORMAL HOUSING

3.7.1 BHESTAN AWAS YOJNA, SURAT

In the Bhestan neighborhood of Surat, Gujarat, there is a project called the Bhestan Awas Yojna that provides inexpensive homes for the economically weaker sections of society. The Surat Municipal Corporation started the project in partnership with private builders to give low-income groups access to cheap housing. The project aims to give locals access to essential services like electricity, clean water, and sanitary facilities.

Details of Bhestan Awas is as below:

• Housing plan – one bedroom, kitchen, W/C, chokdi, balcony

• Built – up area – 22.45 m2

• Actual cost – Rs 1,04,084/-

• Up – front cost – Rs 3000/-

• Loan- Rs 27,000/- o EMI – Rs 343/-

• Total repayment period – 10 years o Interest rate – 9%

• Cost of house recovers from the beneficiary – Rs 30,000/-

• Total no of building – 528

• Total houses - 8448

According to the architect’s perspective; The decisions made by the government/builder while building the Bhestan housing for the economical weaker section, how did they prove to be, advantageous or disadvantageous;

The aim of the Awas Yojna was to provide the residents of the informal settlement with a formal housing with basic infrastructure as well as basic services;

Large stretches of farmland surround the Bhestan Awas Yojna project, which is located on the outskirts of Surat. The project's location was chosen to be close to the neighborhood's residents while yet being out of the way of the city's bustle. The project is well located for Surat's working-class population because it is close to the city's industrial area.

Innovative Design Solutions for Sustainable and Resilient Multi-Story Structures:

The project consists of multi-story structures that have been planned to make the best use of available space. The structures were built with contemporary building methods and are intended to offer the residents cozy living spaces. Due to the structures' good ventilation and natural lighting, the apartments are both sustainable and energy-efficient.

Designing the buildings so they could endure the severe weather that Surat experiences frequently was one of the biggest challenges the architects encountered when working on the Bhestan Awas Yojna project. The builders had to make sure that the structures were made to provide enough shelter from the elements because the city enjoys hot and muggy weather all year long.

The builders' task of making the structures earthquake-resistant presented another difficulty. Since Surat is in an area that is prone to earthquakes, the builders had to include special design elements to make sure the structures can withstand earthquakes.

Conclusive inference:

The Bhestan Awas Yojna project is a great illustration of how well-planned and well-built housing developments may offer livable circumstances to those in the economically disadvantaged sectors of society. The architects have incorporated unique architectural elements that make the buildings environmentally friendly and seismic-resistant in order to address the project's issues.

Lack of Privacy

Lack of Space segregation

Bhestan Awas Current Scene

A kitchen besides the toilet which leaks

Absence of adequate space inside the house

Poor hygiene and sanitary

CHOICE V/S IMPORTANCE - BHESTAN

SERVICE V/S IMPORTANCE - BHESTAN

Challenges and issues that came across while the site visit in Bhestan Awas yojna:

The Bhestan Awas Yojna encountered numerous difficulties and problems during execution, which had an effect on the standard of the homes and the people' living circumstances. Following are some of the major issues and challenges:

• Land acquisition: Obtaining land for constructing the dwelling units was one of the main difficulties encountered during the project's implementation. The project's completion was delayed because there were several owners of the land and legal complications caused the acquisition procedure to take longer than expected.

• Lack of infrastructure: It was challenging to provide residents with even the most basic services because the area lacked essential infrastructure including roads, sewerage systems, and water supplies.

• Poor construction: Some of the apartments had poor construction due to a dearth of management and monitoring, which led to problems like leaks, humidity, and wall cracks.

• Lack of shared spaces: The dwelling units were built as separate structures with little room for shared spaces like playgrounds and parks. The people found it impossible to participate in social events as a result, which damaged the sense of community.

• Insufficient financial backing: The project depended on government grants and investments from the private sector, neither of which were sufficient to cover the project's expenses. As a result, the construction's quality was compromised and the occupants were left without facilities.

Conclusive Inferences:

The Bhestan Awas Yojna provides an example of the challenges and issues faced during the implementation of affordable housing projects for the economically weaker sections of society. While there were some successful solutions and recommendations, there is still a need for greater community engagement, innovative financing, and sustainability in future projects. By addressing these issues, affordable housing projects can better meet the needs of the residents and provide a better quality of life for the economically weaker sections of society.

3.7.2 Kosad Awas Yojna, Surat

The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) introduced the Kosad Awas Yojna, a low-cost housing program, in 2018 to offer lowcost housing for Surat's economically disadvantaged (EWS) population. The initiative, which is located in Surat's Kosad neighborhood, aims to give the urban poor who reside in slums and informal communities decent living circumstances. The project is a component of the government's initiatives to solve the city's lack of accessible housing and to enhance the living circumstances of the urban poor.

A participatory strategy was used to carry out the task, involving the neighborhood in planning and decision-making. The structures' layout and construction were actively contributed to by the tenants, who were also given training and the opportunity to develop their capacities so they could become homeowners. The initiative has also given the neighborhood's residents work possibilities, which has helped the region's economy grow.

Details of Kosad Awas are as below:

• Housing plan – two bedroom, kitchen, W/C, chokdi

• Built – up area – 25.50 m2 to 25.64m2

• Actual cost – Rs 1,34,653 to Rs 1,60,153/-

• Up – front cost – Rs 3500/- o Loan- Rs 32,500/-

• EMI – Rs 400/- o Total repayment period – 10 years

• Interest rate – 9% Cost of house recovers from the beneficiary – Rs 35,000/-

Observations:

The Kosad Awas Yojna encountered numerous difficulties and problems during execution, which had an effect on the standard of the homes and the people' living circumstances. Following are some of the major issues and challenges:

Location: Due to the project's isolated location and distance from the city centre, it is challenging for locals to access essential facilities and services.

Connectivity: The area's poor road conditions and lack of reliable public transport only exacerbate the accessibility problems.

Social Infrastructure: The residents' quality of life is impacted by the lack of communal infrastructure in the area of the project, including medical facilities, schools, and cultural centers.

Sanitation: The development lacks adequate sewerage systems and wastewater treatment facilities, which results in filthy conditions for residents.

Safety and Security: The neighborhood where the project is located is notorious for assault and criminal activity, which puts the safety and security of the inhabitants in danger.

Building Quality: The project's structures are of low quality, including problems like water leaks, wall fractures, and insufficient ventilation.

Limited Amenities: The lack of essential amenities like playgrounds, green spaces, and neighborhood spaces has a detrimental effect on the resident's social and emotional welfare.

Environmental Issues: The development does not use environmentally friendly design principles, which may cause the environment to deteriorate and have an adverse effect on the well-being of the locals.

Affordability: Despite being intended for EWS housing, the dwellings are out of reach for the intended audience because of high upkeep and repair fees.

Absence of Community Involvement: The scheme and the population that it aims to benefit have become estranged due to the citizens' lack of involvement in the processes for making choices.

Dead streets and full of waste collected

Poor structure forming cracks

One room accomodating 5 people

Pollution and waste

Conclusive Inferences:

The Kosad Awas Yojna program serves as an illustration of how affordable housing can be given with creative and viable alternatives. The initiative helped the area's economy and social growth while providing reliable and secure dwellings for the urban poor. The program has, however, also encountered several difficulties that have been overcome by community mobilization and the provision of assistance services. The project emphasizes the value of community involvement in the conception and execution of projects involving affordable housing.

3.7.3 BHAVANI NAGAR AWAS YOJNA, VASNA

In the Vasna neighborhood of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, there is a low-income housing development called Bhavani Nagar Awas Yojna. The initiative was started with the intention of giving the economically weaker segments of society access to safe and cost-effective homes. However, it has encountered a number of problems and difficulties, just like many other low-income housing schemes in India. These problems vary from poor facilities and infrastructure to ineffective government operations and corruption. This case study intends to thoroughly examine the Bhavani Nagar Awas Yojna project and examine the difficulties that its residents confront. The socioeconomic circumstances of the population, the standard of housing, the accessibility to social services like medical care and schooling, and the provision of basic facilities like water and sanitation will all be investigated in the study.

The following are the issues and challenges faced by the Vasna housing inhabitants;

• A dearth of open spaces for outdoor recreation and a shortage of available land.

• Poorly maintained roadways, water supplies, sewage systems, and waste management services.

• Insufficient availability of cheap and accessible transportation options.

• There are very few work prospects in the close vicinity.

• Materials used in the building process are of poor quality, and building norms are inadequate.

• Poor precautions and preparation for disasters.

• Limited availability of loans and money for home upgrades and repairs.

• Exclusion of minority groups and social inequality in housing programmes and practises.

• Insecure tenure and informal settlements' lack of legal legitimacy.

• Inadequate availability of ecologically friendly and energy-efficient home options.

Conclusive Inferences:

The project has encountered many obstacles and difficulties. The absence of transportation and employment options, combined with a dearth of basic amenities like landscaped areas, safe drinking water, and efficient garbage disposal have made life challenging for the inhabitants of the EWS inhabitants. Additionally, the residents' problems have been made worse by the subpar building materials, insufficient disaster preparedness, and limited access to loans for home improvements and repairs.

Entrance Lobby

Site : Context

3.8 CASE STUDY : CONCLUSION

3.8.1 Understanding the contradictory parameters of Formal and Informal settlements:

Access to Basic facilities: The availability of basic facilities is one of the main distinctions between formal and informal living. Formal housing units are built with careful design and have access to necessities like power, water, sanitization, and medical care. Contrarily, informal housing lacks access to these conveniences, resulting in unhealthy living conditions and the spread of illness.

Cost of living: EWS have a hard time affording formal housing because of its high cost. Contrarily, informal housing is generally less expensive, which makes it more accessible to EWS. The lack of essential facilities, however, can make living in informal housing more expensive because it forces inhabitants to spend more on things like water, healthcare, and sanitation.

Safety and Security: Official housing units are made to guarantee the occupants' safety and security. They are well-lit, have safe entrances and exits, and are under the supervision of security. Contrarily, informal housing lacks security mechanisms, leaving it open to theft and other criminal activity.

Legal Status: Formal housing has a legal character because it is constructed under government oversight. Residents can take advantage of several government programmes and subsidies and benefit from clear property rights. Residents of informal housing often struggle to obtain government programs and subsidies because their homes lack legal status and they are unclear about their property rights.

Community Living: Because informal housing is often constructed close to one another, it promotes a sense of community. Residents form a social network by helping one another and sharing resources. Formal housing, on the other hand, is frequently more solitary and might result in a lack of neighborhood support.

SRA HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS

Improved Living standards

Access to Social Welfare scheme

Reduced risk of Eviction

Improved Building Standards

Property value

Community Cohesion

Improved Sanitation

Access to Utilities

Safety and Security

Legal Ownership

Provision to Basic Amenities

Formal Recognition

Sense of Dignity

Environmental Conditions

Sense of Belonging

Increase in Financial Stability

INCREMENTALITY IN SRA HOUSING INCREMENTALITY IN INFORMAL HOUSING

Targeted Subsidies

Controlled Expansion

Slow Progress

Dependence on Government

Bureaucratic Procedures

Lack of Funding

Thresholds / Limitations

Limitations of space to expand

3.8.2 CONCLUSION

Negotiations with the Neighbor

Not Controlled

Step-by-Step Upgrades

Expanding through public space

Horizontal Expansion

Vertical Expansion

Thresholds

Priority Based Interventions

In conclusion, there are major distinctions between legal and informal settlements, and these distinctions have an enormous influence on the lives of individuals who reside there. Informal housing, on the contrary, is more affordable but lacks basic amenities and is not legally recognized, making it challenging for inhabitants to access government programs and subsidies. In addition, informal housing encourages community living, which may help inhabitants feel more connected to one another. This is frequently not the case in authorized housing, which might be more secluded and unsupportive of the community.

Hence, Striking a balance among formal SRA and informal housing initiatives that take the requirements and demands of EWS households into consideration is essential. A meticulous strategy for housing should include community development, legal acknowledgment of informal communities, and adequate access to fundamental facilities. We can enhance the lives of EWS households and advance sustainable, wholesome, and inclusive societies by tackling these concerns.

3.9.1 Understanding Incrementality: A Sustainable and Cost-Effective Approach to Housing Development

The term incrementality is used to describe an approach of building residences gradually through time rather than all at once. This strategy is frequently employed in developing nations and is seen to be a sustainable, cost-effective way to provide homes for economically weaker segments. However, there are numerous misconceptions about the notion of incrementality that needs to be addressed in order to fully grasp its potential.

General Misconceptions:

The widespread perception of what incrementality is frequently includes the assumption that houses are built by their occupants utilizing affordable and easily accessible materials. This impression is somewhat accurate, but it's crucial to realize that incrementality is more than just a do-it-yourself strategy for home construction.

Furthermore, The following are the misconceptions about incrementality as an approach to constructing housings for EWS;

• Incrementality is similar to informality.

• Incrementality refers to poor or mediocre construction techniques.

• Incrementality is a transitory fix that will eventually be changed with permanent housing.

• Housing built incrementally cannot be scaled or replicated.

• It is a more gradual method of providing housing.

• Low-income households cannot afford incremental housing.

3.9.2 Case specific misconceptions

The typical understanding of incrementality, according to a survey of a sample of people is;

• One of the biggest myths regarding incrementality is that it's just an economic idea. Many individuals feel that low-income communities who can't afford to construct homes in one huge development project are the only ones for whom incremental housing is important. Although low-income areas frequently adopt incremental housing, this does not always mean that the idea is only based on financial concerns. Another way to think of incrementality is as a social and cultural phenomenon that reflects the beliefs and values of a community.

• It is also a prevalent misperception that incrementality is a one-size-fits-all strategy. However, it is a belief that incremental housing is an overarching solution that can be used in any community, irrespective of its particular requirements or circumstances.

• The idea that incrementality is a sluggish and ineffective process is another common misunderstanding. One home at a time construction is considered inefficient by those who oppose incremental housing as a strategy. They contend that developing entire neighborhoods at once would be quicker and more economical.

• Another common misunderstanding about incrementality is the notion that it is only a short-term fix. Many individuals believe incremental housing is a band-aid solution meant to help troubled neighborhoods temporarily.

• It is a misconception that always Intercommunity disputes arise if you give additional space to the residents for future expansion. Empty plot of land beside the residences is the only way to implement incremental housing strategy is also a major misconception.

• And at last, it is a misconception to think that incrementality is a low-grade type of housing. The belief is that incremental housing is always accompanied by substandard housing circumstances and the houses are consistently built with inferior quality.

3.10 INTRODUCTION TO INCREMENTAL APPROACH

3.10.1 What is the actual idea of Incrementality?

The actual objective of incrementality is to give residents of informal settlements a sense of stability, security, and upward mobility by enabling them to gradually elevate their standard of living over time. To accomplish this, housing units are constructed progressively, allowing occupants to expand onto their properties as they find the means to do so.

In actuality, incrementality encompasses a methodical, stepwise approach to home construction in addition to little, gradual alterations or enhancements. Based on resource availability and demand, and with the active participation of the community, the incremental approach to housing construction is the steady expansion of housing units. It is a collaborative strategy that guarantees the EWS community's access to fundamental facilities while prioritizing their personal ; societal needs and goals. Incrementality is more about upward mobility and changing the lifestyle and providing a more stable and a sustainable life.

• Responsive and flexible strategy.

• Progressive development.

• Empowering neighborhood groups.

• Enduring sustainable growth.

• Create a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

• Provides a sense of security and upward mobility.

The myth around incrementality, however, undermines the fact that it tends to be a long-term approach to building homes. Cost-effective, flexible, and adaptable dwellings can be built over time in a sustainable manner utilizing an incremental approach.

Additionally, incrementality can be a powerful tool for communal advancement and empowerment. This strategy may help in creating stronger, more resilient neighborhoods by allowing inhabitants to participate in the building process and make decisions regarding their own housing.

Conclusion:

Overall, the concept of incrementality is to offer a malleable and adaptable strategy to housing development that could prove beneficial in providing informal settlements with a sense of stability and upward mobility. Incrementality can contribute to the development of stronger, resilient neighborhoods by enabling individuals to steadily improve their standard of living over time. It can also open doors to greater financial security and upward social mobility.

HORIZONTAL EXPANSION

VERTICAL EXPANSION

EXPANSION

ADAPTABILITY/FLEXIBILITY

EVALUATING INTERVENTIONS

IMPROVED LIVING ENVIRONMENT

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

GRADUAL AND SUSTAINAIBLE

NOT CONTROLLED

NEEDS DRIVEN ARCHITECTURE

STEP-BY-STEP

RISK OF EVICTION

IMPORTANCE OF STARTING SMALL

UPWARD MOBILITY

MISCONCEPTION OR ACTUALITY

APPROACH PROMOTES

SOCIAL INCLUSION

UNSKILLED LABOURERS

ECONOMIC BARRIER

USER PREFERENCE

PHASED DEVELOPMENT

GROWING FAMILIES

CONTINUOUS UPGRADES

PERSONAL HYGIENE

PRIMARY SERVICES AND AMENITIES

GROWTH PROMOTES SOCIAL INCLUSION

PRIORITY BASED INTERVENTION

ECONOMICAL/AFFORDABLE

PROVIDES SENSE OF SECURITY

ENCHROACHMENT

SUSTAINABLE

LOW-TECH AND LOW COST SCALABLE / UPGRADING

INCOME INSTABILITY INADEQUATE FACILITIES ACCESSIBILITY BARRIERS

EMPLOYMENT

PARTICIPATORY DESIGN NEGOTIATIONS

OPPORTUNITIES

ECONOMIC VIABILITY

LABOUR MARKET ACCESS

3.10.2 Forces guiding incrementality

Building homes in stages or increments enables people to add on to or modify existing homes as their requirements and financial circumstances change. The difficulties EWS has in obtaining safe and secure homes have influenced the fundamental principles underlying this strategy. These issues include relocation, expanding families, job prospects, the desire for security, and the live-work philosophy. Certain guiding principles must be in place in order to overcome these obstacles and guarantee that the housing solutions are long-lasting.

The following are the guiding forces for the inclusion of incrementality in the EWS (Economical weaker section) housings;

Changes over Time

Growing Familes

Providing more space

Expansion

A Temporary Solution

Does not provide Pathway to home-ownership

Better Structure availability

Low-Tech & Low-Cost

Provides Financial Stability MISCONCEPTION

Upward Mobility

Leading towardsupgrading lifestyles

• Displacement: EWS families frequently experience the possibility of displacement as a result of a variety of factors, including family division, an increase in the size of households, etc.

• Growing families: Space constraints and congestion are problems for families living in EWS housing. With the growing number of people in the family every 20-25 years there is a want for more space.

Adaptability

Flexibility

UNSKILLED LABOURERS

ECONOMIC BARRIER

More Expensive USER PREFERENCE

Phased Development

Growing needs for Basic Amenities

Leagally approved expansion - Sense of Belonging Pathway to Permanancy

Continuous Upgradation

Sense of Ownership

Allows Adjustments

• Live-work philosophy: Due to the dearth of accessible workspaces and a number of people living in the same household, there arises a need for seperate space for work and living.

• Affordability/Financial instability: Due to the lack of financial stability, the inhabitants of the EWS housing face an issue when their lifestyle changes and when the need for more space arises.

• Upward mobility: To improve the lifestyle standards of the inhabitants living in EWS housing and to upgrade them to a better living environment.

• Lack of land availability: This is again connected to the idea of growing families and a need for a new house to accommodate.

Conclusion:

A number of factors, including eviction, expanding families, upward mobility, security, and the live-work philosophy, are the driving causes behind the inclusion of an incremental approach in EWS housing. Incremental housing can generate a sense of security, stability, and upward mobility while also promoting a sense of community and social cohesiveness by taking into account these factors.

3.10.4 Global and Local Case Studies :

3.10.3 INCREMENTALITY : As a concept

The idea of incremental housing is hardly new; it has been extensively used for ages in numerous cultures all over the world. It has made it possible for economically weaker households to construct their own house in many situations in an affordable and sustainable manner as an alternative to the shortage of accessible and cheap housing options.

The global and local references, to understand the importance of incrementality:

The urban sector in India is expanding quickly, and there are an increasing number of housing developments. Despite the dramatic increase, the nation's residents do not have enough homes to meet their needs. A somewhat unexplored idea in the nation is incremental housing, which views a home as a process in which residents can take part in building their own place of residence based on their preferences and financial limitations. Incrementality is not yet a notion in India's housing policy. Using case studies of ongoing projects Globally and in India, the study intends to highlight the challenges encountered during the execution of incremental housing.

Table 1.1 Comparative Analysis for Global and Local Case Studies

Row 1- 3 : Glocal Case Studies

Row 4,5 : Local Case Studies

4.1 REFERENCES : GLOBAL

4.1.1 Villa Verde Housing

A home development called Villa Verde is owned by Elemental and managed by the forestry company Arauco. This project was created by the corporation as a place for its workers to call home. The job is not located in the city's center. They selected a place close to the task because they would like the employees to be around them.

Landed housing has a larger developed area and seems to be more transparent about who owns the land in each unit. Here, the architect adheres to the half-house principle, in which only one-half of the house is built and the other half is left up to the owners to finish as they see fit. The area that can be expanded can include a family room, up to two bedrooms, and other spaces. Four bedrooms in total, a dining area, a living room, and a terrace are all included in Villa Verde.

One staircase is available for vertical accessibility, and the conduit area has been provided on the opposite end to facilitate pipe operations. As a result, the residents will not be concerned about staircase circulation when it's time to upgrade their current residence.

4.1.2 Tila Housing

39 flats make up the Tila housing building, and each one is built so that it faces south. There is a separately loaded passage on the opposite side of the building that is used for movement. With beams serving as the prior support system and a 5-meter height for each floor, the inhabitants may construct another mezzanine level. The infill process is aided by partition walls; residents are allowed to customize the interiors with whichever material they choose.

This kind of design creates a limit that encourages expansion inside rather than outward. Apart from the underlying structure, the architect built two bedrooms for the 102 sq. ft. unit type and one toilet for the 50 sq. ft. unit. The underlying framework has allowed the inhabitants to maintain the apartment's exterior while making inside upgrades. The complete façade is pre-designed, as opposed to the extension design, which enables anyone to construct their own façade.

This design, therefore targets the higher middle class segment of society. As support system suppliers, architects only provide a blank space that locals can fill in. Inhabitants will be happy with their homes since they have the freedom to create customized interiors, and this concept is economical to build. The user can use infill systems to position furniture and assess how much space can be obtained in the unit and for what purpose.

A space left unbuilt for people to adapt when they are financially stable

Plan for Villa Verde

Drawings of Villa Verde housing to understand Unit placements to adjecent units and Vertical Expansion

Plan : Scond Floor

Plan : Ground Floor

Plan : Second Mezzanine

Pa non vit

4.1.3 Quinta Monroy Housing

These housing units will be offered in two layouts and can house up to five households. A description of both units is provided below: In the image above, the house type shown in blue offers immediate access from the entrance door. Space only expands in the sideways and reverse directions. This kind of building enables locals to launch a business to strengthen their community's economy. One planned module is followed by two distinct housing kinds. The Duplex kinds are highlighted in orange, blue, and red as seen in the aforementioned photographs. As well as forward and backward, space also enlarges in the upward direction. As a result, there are stairs in each unit separately.

4.1.4 Weston Williamson Concept

To alleviate Palestine's housing shortage, the British Weston Williamson Studio created vertical dwellings with the idea of incremental housing. The progressive house idea was developed by Chilean architect Alejandro Aravena. In this type of home, people can add on a room dependent on their financial capabilities. Each flat will be constructed with pillars in the center and a large balcony. The houses are meant to be permanent residences that "mature along with their inhabitants." Prefabricated panels can be used by residents to extend onto balconies. The placement of modular components can be varied to create fascinating shapes. This flat comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, with options for up to three bedrooms. Contrarily, the communal room is arranged on the ground floor. The balcony, which was intended to be spacious enough, can accommodate the expansion, which is only limited to three additional rooms.

Incremental Identity

Unique Identities of each unit

Elevation of Quinta Monroy Housing

Community Space

Unit Functions and Expansion through Balconly

4.2 REFERENCES : LOCAL

4.2.1 Incremental housing in India: Yerwada Pune

This is not a novel idea in India, where numerous attempts have already been made to incorporate progressive housing into everyday life. The project started by Filipe Balestra and Sara Göransson in Mumbai, in partnership with SPARC and Mahila Milan, is one such instance of progressive housing in India. Three different sample designs have been employed in the project: With the initial Prototype, the user can expand and lengthen the house vertically by building an additional storey on top of the given skeletal frame. Consequently, it is possible to convert a two-story home to a three-story home. The second prototype is creating a framework with an additional storey on the ground level that may be used for parking or expanded to create a business or residence. The third prototype was created with the daily routines of the people who will live in these homes in mind, and the middle space in the three-story building was left open for growth.

4.3 CONCLUSIVE INFERENCES : GLOBAL AND LOCAL FOR INCREMENTAL HOUSING

From the perspective of EWS housing in SRA with a focus on incrementality, the case study analysis of Villa Verde Housing, Tila Housing, Quinta Monroy Housing, Weston Williamson Concept, and Incremental housing in India: Yerwada Pune reveals insightful information about the potency of these residential developments as long-term solutions for the problems encountered by economically weaker sections (EWS).

Overall, the case study shows how incremental housing initiatives can be implemented within a context that could benefit EWS populations. These tactics place a high priority on the progressive creation and enhancement of housing, enabling locals to take part in the construction process and modify their residences as their needs change over time. The projects generate a sense of responsibility and power among the inhabitants by including community involvement and self-built features, improving their standards of life.

The buildings under consideration have a variety of advantages when it comes to EWS housing issues. In order to ensure that EWS communities have access to essential services and infrastructure, Villa Verde Housing, Tila Housing, and Quinta Monroy Housing have been successful in offering cheap housing options to those populations. Novel solutions to incremental housing are presented by the Weston Williamson Concept, which incorporates sustainable elements and modular design concepts.

The study emphasizes the significance of context-specific approaches in the instance of Incremental housing in India: Yerwada Pune. As a result of the project's focus on cheap housing and locally driven development, living circumstances for EWS inhabitants have improved, and a feeling of community has been fostered.

The case study does, however, also highlight several drawbacks and difficulties. For progressive housing initiatives to be implemented successfully, the accessibility of capital and cooperation among both the private and public spheres are still essential. The ability to scale these programs and their long-term sustainability are also impacted by problems with land availability, regulatory obstacles, and the requirement for continual support and monitoring.

Facade showing mass v/s built

Prototype 3

Prototype 1

Prototype 2

Verticality and marketplace

Showing different identities

5. INTERPRETATION AND FINDINGS

INFERENCE: ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

Inferences from the above given reference of Incremental housing projects: The advantages and disadvantages;

The advantages of incremental housing are numerous. In the first place, it gives low-income families a cost-effective means to construct their own homes, which may be a source of dignity and stability. People can develop a sense of ownership and belonging by building their own houses, which can be particularly crucial for families who have suffered displacement or other types of uncertainty.

Second, developing dwellings incrementally is a sustainable method, in which people can adapt their houses to evolving circumstances by constructing them in stages, which minimizes the need for destruction and reconstruction. And thirdly, an incremental approach can promote community growth and the creation of social value. People can cooperate and share resources by constructing their houses in phases, which can result in the development of social networks and neighborhood support systems.

The benefits of Incrementality in rehabilitated EWS housing:

• Adaptability: Incremental housing can be made to meet the evolving needs of low-income families over time, enabling them to make upgrades and expansions when their financial condition gets better.

• Upward mobility: Incremental housing can offer low-income households a route to homeownership, enabling them to accumulate equity and enhance their financial situation.

• Security: By giving low-income people a long-term housing solution they can customize and improve over time, incremental housing can give them a feeling of security and stability.

• Affordability: Incremental housing can be created to be cost-effective for low-income households, giving them access to homes they might not otherwise be able to buy.

• Community involvement and ownership: By integrating inhabitants in the design and construction process and giving them a sense of ownership over their dwelling, incremental housing can encourage community involvement and ownership.

Cons of Incremental approach:

• Lack of early resources: Low-income households might not have easy access to the first resources necessary for incremental housing.

• Slow process: The construction and improvement of incremental housing can take time, which may not be practical for low-income families that need housing solutions right once.

• Limited financing alternatives: Low-income households may find it challenging to get the necessary resources due to a possible lack of financing options for additional homes.

• Limited scalability: To satisfy the needs of sizable low-income populations or in places with little resources, incremental housing may not be readily scalable.

• Lack of technical knowledge: The design and construction of incremental housing require technical knowledge, which may not be easily accessible in some low-income regions.

Conclusive inference:

In conclusion, the progressive housing approach has numerous advantages, notably giving low-income households an affordable way to construct their own homes, flexibility to adjust to changing conditions, and encouragement of social significance and development in communities. Additionally, progressive housing can give low-income families a path to owning property safety, cost-effectiveness, and ownership of their community. Incremental housing can have certain drawbacks, though, including an absence of early assets, a lengthy process, restricted financing alternatives, reduced scalability, and a dearth of expertise in technology in some low-income areas.

Despite its drawbacks, progressive dwellings may serve as a promising option for households with low incomes, particularly in places where there is a shortage of affordable housing. Incremental housing may provide families with low incomes a sense of belonging and security as well as the chance to gradually improve their financial status by offering an extended housing alternative that is adjustable and flexible. And hence it can lead the economically weaker sections towards upward mobility and provide a better standard of living.

5.1 Need for incrementality in SRA Housing

SRA Housing: The Incremental Approach's Purpose: India, a country with a high prevalence of slums and informal settlements, offers a tremendous opportunity for the gradual approach in SRA housing. The strategy makes formal housing more available to the EWS population by enabling its progressive expansion. Additionally, because it eliminates the need for extensive construction and land acquisition, it is economical and environmentally friendly.

The EWS population in India is experiencing a significant increase in demand for official housing, and a gradual expansion of SRA housing units is required to accommodate this need. Land acquisition and construction on a large scale are not always possible, especially in urban locations where land is expensive and limited. The incremental strategy makes it more practical and economical by allowing for the steady expansion of housing units.

Given that there is a greater demand for habitat than there is supply, SRA housing for EWS residents must be iterative. Due to a shortage of assets along with elevated land costs, the conventional method of housing construction—buying land and erecting houses all at once—is becoming more and more challenging. As assets become accessible, a better strategy known as incrementality allows the constant and gradual development of housing units.

This strategy fosters a sense of shared identity and ownership, which can be especially important for households that have experienced homelessness or other forms of instability. Constructing their own homes gives household members a sense of accomplishment, belonging, and dignity that can improve their standards of living.

Scope of Parameters:

• Participatory approach: Since the gradual approach directly affects the residents' living circumstances and needs, it is important that they be included in its development and execution.

• Flexibility: Because the needs of the EWS community may change over time, the methodology should be adaptable and flexible.

• Phased development: This strategy should be based on the progressive increase of dwelling units in accordance with demand and resource availability.

• Cost-effective and long-term: The strategy should be long-term and cost-effective, minimizing the need for extensive development and land acquisition.

• Access to essential services: The strategy should provide access to essential services like water, power, sanitation, and healthcare.

Conclusion:

For the inhabitants of EWS housing, the incremental housing approach creates a possibility for upward mobility. It gives them a path to homeownership, allowing them to build assets and gradually improve their financial circumstances. As households' financial circumstances get better, they might upgrade and expand their dwellings to accommodate their changing needs.

Additionally, EWS households may feel more secure and stable with progressive housing. It may assist them experience a sense of responsibility and belonging by providing them with a sustainable housing option that they can personalize and enhance over time. Their standard of living can be improved, and they can develop stronger social networks because of this .

Structural Stability

Legal Ownership

Construction Materials

Safety and Security

Basic Amenities

ISSUES AND CHALLENGES FOR SRA HOUSING WITH INCLUSION OF INCREMENTAL APPROACH

Lack of Land Availability

Lack of Flexibility

Lack of Financial Stability

Lack of Belongingness

Lack of Opportunities

5.2 Issues and Challenges in the inclusion of Incrementality as an approach in SRA Housing for EWS;

By SRA authorities and builders, there is an absence of knowledge and acceptance of the progressive housing approach.

Integration issues with formal housing projects and the current informal settlements.

Residents of informal communities encounter obstacles when attempting to establish clear land titles.

Lack of funding for the adoption of the incremental housing strategy in government-run housing programmes.

Lacking the technical expertise and abilities needed to apply the gradual housing strategy.

Due to an absence of oversight and control, it is challenging to ensure the quality of additional housing units.

There is not enough room for additional dwelling units in formal housing developments.

Residents' involvement in the development and execution of the incremental housing method has been limited.

Insufficient assets and supplies available for building additional dwelling units.

Challenges in guaranteeing durability and environmentally friendly design for new housing units in organized housing programs.

1. Community Participation:

• By actively involving EWS populations in the planning and development process, it is made possible to tailor housing alternatives to the distinctive requirements, preferences, and cultural settings of these communities.

• Involving inhabitants in the creation process develops a sense of pride, responsibility, and governance, which improves upkeep and the long-term viability of housing developments.

• Community empowerment and social cohesiveness are facilitated by cooperative decision-making procedures, which strengthen a feeling of shared identity and belonging.

2. Incremental Housing Strategies:

• Incrementality enables housing units to be gradually improved and expanded in accordance with the changing needs and financial resources of EWS households.

• The adaptability of progressive housing enables homeowners to make small-scale modifications and improvements to their dwellings, gradually improving their usability and spatial quality.

• Incremental strategies offer EWS households a feasible route out of informal housing, allowing them to steadily develop assets and enhance their living circumstances.

3. Affordability and Cost-Effectiveness:

• Adopting creative construction techniques, utilizing locally accessible materials, and optimizing space utilization are all part of designing for cost-effectiveness.

• By focusing on affordability, it is ensured that the dwellings are still within the means of EWS households, lessening their financial strain and allowing them to divert funds to other crucial requirements.

• Including affordable alternatives improves the viability and scalability of EWS housing projects while also benefiting the occupants.

4. Infrastructure and Basic Amenities:

• Upgrading the living circumstances and general well-being of EWS populations requires the availability of sufficient infrastructure, including safe water, sanitary facilities, power, and adequate air circulation.

• Improving the housing complexes' facilities and basic amenities improves the health, cleanliness, and general standard of living of the occupants.

• Infrastructure that is properly provided helps EWS housing developments be sustainable and long-lasting, which lowers maintenance problems and health hazards.

5. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency:

• Energy usage and environmental effect are decreased by using sustainable design concepts, which include maximizing natural lighting and ventilation, implementing passive cooling techniques, and using energy-efficient technologies.

• The incorporation of environmentally friendly energy sources, like solar panels, can offer clean and cost-effective energy options, decreasing dependency on traditional energy sources and lowering carbon emissions.

• Sustainable practices are incorporated into EWS housing developments to lessen their adverse environmental impacts as well as to increase the dwelling units' long-term cost and durability.

6. Social Integration and Community Development:

• Including communal areas, shared amenities, and outdoor spaces in EWS housing developments encourages social connections, fosters a feeling of community, and supports social integration.

• Access to important services is improved for locals because of community facilities like nursery schools, hospitals, educational institutions, and community halls.

• Supporting neighborhood-based initiatives, such as nonprofit organizations and collaborative programs, improves social networks, gives residents more authority, and encourages a sense of shared accountability for the upkeep and management of housing projects.

7. Policy and Institutional Support:

• Effective execution depends on policies and institutional structures that prioritize the requirements of EWS households and offer incentives for incremental housing strategies.

• The creation and sustainability of EWS housing schemes are facilitated by efficient management, standardized rules and regulations, and accessible decision-making processes.

• In order to mobilize resources and provide sufficient financial backing, collaboration between the public and private sectors, and cooperation with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are essential.

The qualitative analysis of the research paper concludes some parameters that are to be viewed while designing a SRA housing for EWS. The following are the parameters for the same:

• Adaptability: Incremental housing allows residents to steadily extend their houses over time as their family size and wealth grow. This can help them improve their living circumstances and even get them out of destitution.

• Ownership: Incremental housing empowers residents to take charge of their own housing requirements and become active partners in decision-making. This can strengthen their sense of belonging and duty to their families and neighborhoods.

• Affordability: Because it enables residents to invest in their houses in phases, incremental housing is often more reasonable than large-scale housing developments. This can assist low-income families in avoiding excessive debt or other financial obligations.

• Security: Incremental housing gives inhabitants a feeling of security because they know can enhance and extend their houses over time. This can help them feel more connected to their houses and neighborhoods, lowering the risk of displacement and promoting community security.

5.4 CONCLUSION

This study article focused on Surat and Ahmedabad local case studies to investigate the difficulties and problems relating to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) a habitation and Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) housing in diverse situations. The study has illuminated the possibility of incrementality as an effective remedy in these situations.

The data show how complex EWS housing issues may be, including how difficult it is to obtain affordable housing, how bad the infrastructure is, and how few basic services there are. Although SRA housing programmes have made strides toward formal housing provision, there are still a lot of obstacles to be overcome.

A promising strategy to alleviate the housing difficulties facing EWS has emerged: incrementality. The case analyses from Surat and Ahmedabad show how incremental housing can raise living standards. Residents are able to modify and improve their dwellings over time as needed, in accordance with their changing demands and financial resources, thanks to the progressive and collaborative character of this strategy.

However, it is crucial to recognize that incremental progress is not a fix-all. Its effectiveness depends on elements like participation from the community, encouraging laws, financial accessibility, and the supply of facilities and services. It is vital to have a thorough and well-rounded strategy that takes into account not just the physical factors but also the social, economic, and environmental ones.

To enhance the application of incrementality, future studies can concentrate on creative finance mechanisms, long-term sustainability evaluation, and understanding sharing among stakeholders. In order to be widely effective, policymakers and urban planners must give priority to its incorporation into housing laws and ordinances.

In conclusion, incremental development offers a promising answer to the housing issues faced by EWS and SRA. We can promote sustainable urban development, improve the standard of living for EWS neighbourhoods, and take steps towards creating comprehensive and affordable housing for everybody by adopting this strategy.

5.5 SCOPE FOR FUTURE STUDY

The knowledge and application of progressive housing as an alternative for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) housing pursuant to the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) paradigm can be improved in the future through a number of crucial areas of study and activity.

The success of incremental development in EWS and SRA housing programs can be better understood by doing a comparative comparison across several cities or areas. Policymakers, urban planners, and architects can find methods that can be duplicated and tailored to many contexts by analyzing the results, difficulties, and best practices from various case studies. To assess the viability over time and the consequences of incremental housing approaches, long-term research investigations are crucial. The long-term durability and effectiveness of incrementality could be better understood by monitoring the development of these housing projects and evaluating the social, economic, and ecological results over time.

For the support and promotion of incrementality, further research into the function of frameworks for policy and organizational structures is essential. It is possible to encourage and optimize the implementation of incremental techniques and ensure their incorporation into mainstream housing programs by evaluating current policies and identifying prospective policy adjustments. Comprehensive social impact analyses can analyze how progressive housing initiatives affect people's standard of living, self-determination, integration into society, and community development. These evaluations can point forth ways to maximize beneficial social results and deal with any potential problems.

In order to encourage collaboration and the sharing of expertise and best practices among stakeholders, sharing of knowledge platforms and capacity-building initiatives are crucial. The knowledge and application of incremental housing options can benefit from the combined efforts of architects, urban planners, lawmakers, and community members.

Last but not least, optimizing resource use and minimizing the negative environmental effects of housing expansions can be accomplished by investigating improvements in building and design techniques especially suited for progressive housing. The sustainability of incremental housing alternatives can be further improved by researching sustainable and affordable methods, such as environmentally friendly resources, flexible building systems, and energy-effective technologies.

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State of Housing- UDRI

By Rahul Mehrotra

and Kaiwan

Mehta

State of Housing: Understanding Deliberate Policy Inaction by Rahul Mehrotra and Kaiwan Mehta provides an in-depth examination of the housing crisis in India.

Lack of affordable housing in India is not due to a lack of demand, but rather the result of deliberate policy inaction by the government.

The authors provide examples of policy failures, including lack of implementation of regulations, absence of tax incentives for developers, and insufficient allocation of resources to housing programs.

The authors analyze the impact of policy inaction on the lives of citizens, including its effects on health, education, and economic well being, as well as the environment and urban landscape.

Recommendations for addressing the housing crisis include: implementation of tax incentives for developers, creation of a dedicated housing ministry, allocation of more resources to housing programs, and engagement of citizens in the policy-making process.

The book is a valuable contribution to the literature on housing policy in India and provides insights into the root causes and consequences of the housing crisis.

'Supports' by Habraken (book)

"Supports: An Alternative to Mass Housing" by John Habraken is a seminal work on housing design and architecture.

The book critiques the traditional mass housing model and proposes an alternative approach, "supports," that emphasizes flexibility and adaptability.

According to Habraken, mass housing is characterized by standardized units, lack of individual control, and rigid separation of public and private spaces.

The supports approach, on the other hand, offers more flexible and adaptable housing units, with the ability for residents to customize and modify their homes over time.

The author argues that supports can provide a more democratic and equitable form of housing, allowing residents to shape their own homes and communities.

"Supports" is a key text in the field of housing design and architecture, and its ideas have had a lasting impact on the housing discourse.

Design concepts and systems for low-income housing by A K Khan (book)

"Design Concepts and Systems for Low-Income Housing" by A.K. Khan provides a comprehensive overview of the design and development of low-income housing.

The author examines various design concepts and building systems, including site planning, building typologies, materials, and construction techniques.

The book covers the various factors that need to be considered when designing low-income housing, including environmental and cultural context, building codes and regulations, and affordability.

The author provides case studies of low-income housing projects from around the world, highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced in different contexts.

The book offers practical guidance for architects, engineers, and other professionals involved in the design and construction of low-income housing.

"Design Concepts and Systems for Low-Income Housing" is an important resource for anyone working in the field of affordable housing and provides a valuable contribution to the literature on the subject.

"Empowering flexible housing solutions are not just about building houses; they are about creating communities that foster resilience, equity, and dignity for all. By putting people at the center of the design process, we can create housing that adapts to their changing needs, strengthens social connections, and nurtures a sense of belonging."