Sustainable Urban Development in Bhubaneswar’s Slums: Innovative Strategies for Water and Sanitation Access

Over the past twenty years, India’s cities have undergone significant transformation due to rapid urbanization. Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is a prime example of this shift, where a steady flow of migrants has led to the fast expansion of informal settlements along the city’s edges. These slum areas face critical shortages in clean water, sanitation, and basic infrastructure, trapping residents in cycles of poverty and health challenges. While government programs and NGO efforts have tried to improve conditions, they often fall short in consistently providing safe and equitable access to water and sanitation. This research examines how rapid urban growth and the emergence of slum communities in Bhubaneswar have exacerbated inequalities in access to water and sanitation. Using a combination of scientific testing, infrastructure assessments, and spatial mapping, the study uncovers key barriers to sustainable urban development. It found that contaminants such as arsenic, fluoride, and iron frequently exceed safe limits, and issues like inconsistent water supply and poor drainage systems further increase health risks. The study emphasizes the need for an integrated policy approach that strengthens infrastructure, encourages community involvement, and holds stakeholders accountable to build inclusive urban resilience and help meet global sustainability goals, particularly SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation) and SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities).