What Does Shantytowns Mean?
Shantytowns are sections of a town or city that are characterized by so-called shanties or crudely built houses, made with very basic materials, illegally built and home to the poverty stricken. Shantytowns often have no access to fresh water, toilet facilities, schools, sanitation services, electricity and other basic necessities and are often filled with refuse and disease. These often also have their own economy with poorly paid jobs.
Safeopedia Explains Shantytowns
One of the primary causes of the creation and increase of shantytowns is rapid growth and urbanization where many leave rural areas to search for greater opportunities in urban areas and are stricken with poverty through a lack of opportunities. Many people are forced to build illegal, temporary settlements because they cannot afford adequate housing and other facilities. Shantytowns differ from place to place and there are a number of other factors which contribute to their development.