Background

India’s rapid economic growth over the past few decades has been accompanied by an explosion of cities across the country, with infrastructure development, the creation of a new and thriving industrial sector, and the consequent migration of millions of citizens from rural to urban locales in search of employment and a better quality of life. But amidst this progress and development exists a pressing issue that often goes unnoticed: homelessness. 

Modern-day urbanization in India has led to an alarming increase in homelessness, with vulnerable demographics, including children and individuals from marginalized groups, struggling to find shelter and reprieve. The scale of this problem is staggering, with millions living in slums and makeshift dwellings, and many on the streets - devoid of the basic necessities and dignity that a home should provide. The issue of housing inaccessibility for underserved communities in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru is not simply a matter of shelter; it concerns human rights, dignity, and the very essence of a just society. These individuals all had a vision of what their life in the city might look like, and the reality is deeply unfortunate. 

As cities continue to expand, the problems will be exacerbated, with lack of shelter, clean sanitation facilities and healthcare, and in many cases, even a sustainable livelihood. Project Clean Community seeks to confront this critical issue head-on with innovation solutions for the use of limited urban space.