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Look at Diagram Q8 - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 8 - 2023
Question 8
Look at Diagram Q8. Referring to a named developing world city you have studied: (a) describe strategies used to improve housing in the city and (b) comment on their... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Look at Diagram Q8 - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 8 - 2023
Step 1
(a) describe strategies used to improve housing in the city
Answer
In Rio de Janeiro, various strategies have been implemented to improve housing conditions in favelas, mainly through governmental and community efforts:
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Favela clearance: Before the 2016 Olympic Games, the local government undertook favela clearance initiatives to enhance urban living conditions. This involved demolishing dangerous structures and replacing them with safer housing options.
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Concrete housing projects: The government has invested in providing concrete housing to replace informal settlements, which often lacked basic utilities. For example, programs like 'Favela Bairro' aimed to improve the infrastructure and living conditions through structured development.
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Community involvement: Engaging with community leaders allowed for tailored solutions that met the specific needs of residents. Local councils were established to involve residents in decision-making processes regarding their living conditions.
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Infrastructure improvements: Basic services such as electricity and sanitation were expanded through initiatives connecting informal communities to government networks. This significantly improved the quality of life in these areas.
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Incentives for informal builders: Providing incentives for informal builders to adhere to safety and building standards helped integrate their work into the regulated housing market.
Step 2
(b) comment on their effectiveness
Answer
The effectiveness of these strategies has been mixed:
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Favela clearance effectiveness: While favela clearance aimed to improve safety and aesthetics, it often resulted in displacement of residents without providing them with adequate relocation options. This created social tensions as many were forced to leave their homes abruptly.
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Housing projects: Initiatives like the 'Favela Bairro' program had some success in improving the quality of infrastructure and housing; however, financial constraints and political changes affected the sustainability of these projects. Many buildings remain unfinished or poorly maintained.
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Community involvement: Involving local communities in decision-making generally led to more accepted and successful projects. However, if local leaders are not fully supported, initiatives may falter due to lack of cohesion.
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Infrastructure improvements: Connecting communities to official utilities has proven beneficial overall, as it directly addresses living conditions. Nonetheless, some residents report insufficient support and continued issues with service provision.
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Challenges with informal builders: While incentives did help regulate some informal practices, enforcement has been erratic, leading to compliance issues. The ongoing lack of urban planning can lead to recurring problems of safety and overcrowding.