Climate Migration & Informal Settlements: Adapting Urban Futures

Climate change is driving migration from rural to urban areas, often resulting in the rapid growth of informal settlements. These areas are typically located in hazard-prone zones—floodplains, riverbanks, or unstable slopes—exposing residents to heightened risks. Addressing climate migration and informal settlements is essential for urban resilience.

Global Examples

Amman, Jordan: The city has developed strategies to integrate displaced populations, upgrading informal settlements with basic services and infrastructure.

Dhaka, Bangladesh: Faced with massive rural-urban migration due to floods and cyclones, Dhaka is piloting community-based upgrading of slums, providing flood protection and secure tenure.

Cape Town, South Africa: The city’s "Reblocking" program reorganizes informal settlements to improve access, reduce fire risk, and facilitate service delivery.

Critical Analysis

• Rights and Inclusion: Migrants and informal settlers often lack legal recognition, making them vulnerable to eviction and exclusion from services.
• Integrated Planning: Upgrading informal settlements must be part of broader urban resilience strategies, not isolated projects.
• Community Leadership: Residents must be partners in planning, implementation, and maintenance.

Nepal’s Context

Cities like Nepalgunj and Kathmandu are seeing increased migration due to climate impacts—landslides, droughts, and floods. Informal settlements are expanding, often on marginal land. Addressing these challenges requires:

• Secure tenure and basic services for informal residents
• Upgrading infrastructure to reduce flood and landslide risk
• Engaging migrants in urban planning and disaster preparedness

The Way Forward

• Participatory Upgrading: Involve communities in mapping, planning, and upgrading settlements.
• Policy Reform: Recognize informal residents’ rights and integrate them into city plans.
• Climate Adaptation: Design infrastructure and services to withstand climate hazards.

Conclusion

Climate migration and informal settlements are shaping the future of urban Nepal. Proactive, inclusive, and resilient approaches are needed to ensure that all residents can thrive in the face of climate change.