A thesis submitted in partial fulfillments oi the requirements for the degree of Master or Science

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1984

In Karachi t the present time both the government works approach and the aided self-help approach are being used for the physical improvement of katchi abadi housing settlements. The former approach follows the regular municipal procedures for the regularization and upgrading of squatter housing settlements, while the later approach aims at promoting the efforts of the residents to organize themselves and assume primary responsibility for improving their own community. This study aims at assessing the two approaches by comparing the progress and impact of improvement in two projects in Karachi using each approach, namely the Baldia and Orangi case study areas. The satisfaction and perception of the target group with services provided through each approach are also examined. Through the analysis of the existing situation and the opinions of squatter residents who have been benefitted by the two programmes, it was found that neither of the approach can work successfully in isolation. The findings of the study confirm that the combination of government assistance and voluntary organizations (NGO) coupled with residents' participation and effort provides a balance and strength in the policies. plans and programme to attain the objectives of the Katchi Abadi improvement Programme.