Impact of spatial transformation on women’s livelihoods in slum rehabilitation housing after development-induced displacement

Housing is a human right and forced displacement is a violation of this fundamental right. It leads to a breakdown of livelihoods and disproportionately affects the socio-economically vulnerable groups of society. One such group is women. In a patriarchal society, women are given secondary social status and are stripped of several basic rights purely as a virtue of their gender. Over many decades of negotiating socio-spatial freedom, women have started to shed the socio-cultural implications of patriarchal norms and artfully devised livelihood strategies that serve them. However, displacement disrupts these complex systems and forces women to start from scratch in unfamiliar spatial contexts. This thesis explores the multifaceted impact of spatial transformation on the livelihoods of women in a resettlement housing after development-induced displacement. It delves deep into the characteristics of transformation conducted and their reasons to do so. Several notable findings have been discovered, elucidating the ongoing change that shapes their well-being. Through a series of in-depth interviews with displaced women, a comprehensive understanding of their experiences in the transformed environment was garnered. The significance of this transformation becomes apparent in its multifarious contributions across social, human, and economic livelihoods assets. Women's ability to effectively rebuild their lives within the new spatial confines speaks to the inherent resilience and adaptive capacities they possess, which leads to a ripple effect and improves the livelihoods of all household members, especially females. Moreover, the study illuminates the transformative potential of spatial changes in enhancing women's sense of agency, fostering social networks, and reinstating a semblance of normalcy in their daily lives required for livelihood restoration. However, it is noteworthy that spatial transformation is an ongoing process, necessitating continual attention and support. The research underscores the need for sustained institutional backing to fortify and scale up the positive outcomes of spatial change. Through capacity building, knowledge sharing and speedy redressal of grievances, spatial transformation can be effectively designed to respond to evolving challenges and aspirations of the women residents. The research methodology employed a combination of in-depth interviews and spatial analysis to unravel the intricate dynamics of spatial transformation and the role of women in it. The narratives of displaced women offer profound insights into the nuanced ways in which the need for spatial transformation is recognized and actualized in households and the community. Complementing these narratives, spatial analysis was conducted to map conditions before and after the transformation. This approach enriches the understanding of the physical and socioeconomic shifts that have transpired. In conclusion, the thesis underscores that spatial transformation wields a substantial influence on the livelihoods of women in resettlement colonies following forced displacement. The restoration of livelihood assets through this transformation emerges as a noteworthy positive outcome, yet the process's ongoing nature necessitates continual support. As societies continue to grapple with the challenges of displacement, this thesis contributes essential insights into the role of spatial transformation in fostering resilience and empowering women within their new communities.