40] operations on kumbharwada

Informal Surgery is a design experiment to dissect and examine an informal settlement - Kumbharwada, aiming to surgically add a series of architectural objects*. The purpose of this is to enhance the environment for the residents of Kumbharwada - the potters’ settlement in Dharavi, to thrive and prosper.

The design experiment proposes an intermediate alternative between the existing informal settlement and the state’s proposal for total clearance of the informal settlement.

*Sanitation Facility reminiscing “Baoli” - Indian Stepwells *Residential Units recalling “Haveli” - Traditional Mansion *Smoke Infrastructure following traditional construction *Public Space inspired by “Baithak” - A Communal Space

about informality

According to the United Nations 2014 World Urbanization Prospects report, 66% of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050. Currently, 32% of the world’s urban population lives in informal settlements.

India China Nigeria

Most urbanization will occur in Africa and Asia, with India, China, and Nigeria alone accounting for one third of all urban population growth.

As the world rapidly urbanizes, the livelihoods, health, and safety of residents living in informal settlements remain at risk. These residents lack formal property rights and access to vital infrastructure and services.