Understanding Living Environment for Migrant Workers: Study & Design of Labour Accommodation in Ahmedabad

Abstract

The life of a migrant worker is fraught with unpredictability, and this has made them extremely susceptible throughout their working careers. They are mostly found to be working on construction and infrastructure project sites. They are not recognised or acknowledged by the society around them. The absurdity of the situation is that the people who build our ideal homes actually live in appalling poverty themselves. They have been looking for a way to live that is both dignified and fulfilling so that they can finally feel like a part of society. Leaving their home for a job that doesn’t pay enough to support their family is already a difficult task; the fact that they don’t have enough housing here makes the situation even more difficult. They are always going through the motions of a transient existence. As a result, it is of the utmost importance to improve the conditions in which they are living so that they can lead decent lives. With India poised to make an immense jump in urbanization – this aspect of our construction and infrastructure development becomes critical – especially in the light of social equity and dignity of life being an integral part of our sustainability goals for the future. In this context, this study looks at some of the existing living conditions of construction site workers in the city of Ahmedabad, India and identifies issues and concerns that need to be addressed. It also goes on to propose one (of many possible) solutions that tries to address these concerns – this is done through a design demonstration.