A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering of the Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand.

Thesis (M.Eng.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1978

Squatting has been a problem of complexity and diversity. Lasting solutions to this problem have been elusive, despite the various techniques and approaches that have been tried. Governments in different countries have attempted to solve this vexing problem in different ways, but with little success. The Bangladesh government's scheme of resettlement of squatters in Daces, although laudable in its objectives, did not bring the expected solutions to the problem. A thorough appraisal of such a scheme is vitally needed for any new approach. This study investigates the after-effects of the squatter resettlement project at Dattapara near Dacca by identifying the socio-economic changes after resettlement. The study has two aspects. The first deals with the implementation of the Dattapara sites and services project with the background for under taking the project. The steps taken by different government agencies concerned with resettlement were analyzed. The activities of the voluntary organizations involved in the project have also been studied. The second part deals with the socio-economic characteristics. The changes in income, occupation and community life were investigated. The attitude and opinion of the people regarding the resettlement project, their priorities for improvement of the project and their aspirations and capabilities were also analyzed. By analyzing the steps taken by the authorities for resettlement and in the light of the priorities and aspirations of the relocated people, some policy guidelines are made for future planning of a sites and services programme in Dacca. Recommendations regarding the physical plan for the ongoing project at Dattapara are also included.