What if the poor were part of city planning? | Smruti Jukur Johari

Introduction

This tutorial explores the insights shared by urban planner Smruti Jukur Johari regarding the inclusion of marginalized communities in city planning. It highlights the importance of involving residents in decision-making processes to improve living conditions in informal communities and slums. By implementing practical solutions and fostering collaboration between governments, architects, and residents, we can create sustainable urban environments.

Step 1: Understand the Current Challenges Faced by Informal Communities

• Recognize that nearly one billion people live in informal settlements without essential infrastructure.
• Common issues include:
  • Lack of clean water
  • Absence of sanitation facilities
  • Inadequate roads and transportation
• Acknowledge the myths surrounding these communities, such as the belief that they are chaotic or lack organization.

Step 2: Foster Collaboration Between Stakeholders

• Encourage partnerships among:
  • Local governments
  • Urban planners
  • Community residents
• Steps to enhance collaboration:
  • Organize community meetings to gather input and ideas from residents.
  • Involve residents in the planning process to ensure their needs are met.
  • Use local knowledge to inform urban design and infrastructure projects.

Step 3: Implement Simple, Common-Sense Solutions

• Identify practical improvements that can be made with limited resources:
  • Create temporary sanitation facilities that can be upgraded later.
  • Develop community-led projects to improve local infrastructure, such as roads and public spaces.
• Highlight successful case studies where simple changes made a significant impact:
  • Example projects that have effectively improved living conditions.

Step 4: Address Misconceptions and Promote Awareness

• Work on changing perceptions about informal communities through:
  • Public awareness campaigns showcasing the strength, resilience, and organization of these communities.
  • Educational programs that explain the importance of inclusive planning.
• Encourage policymakers to visit and engage with these communities to understand their dynamics better.

Step 5: Advocate for Policy Changes

• Push for policies that recognize the rights and contributions of informal communities:
  • Support land tenure security to help residents invest in their homes and neighborhoods.
  • Promote funding for community-led development initiatives.
• Develop a framework for ongoing dialogue between residents and city planners to ensure continuous improvement.

Conclusion

Involving marginalized communities in city planning is crucial for creating equitable and sustainable urban environments. By understanding their challenges, fostering collaboration, implementing practical solutions, addressing misconceptions, and advocating for policy changes, we can make a meaningful impact. As a next step, consider engaging with local community groups or urban planning organizations to discuss how to incorporate these strategies in your own city.