Impact Assessment of Access to Basic Services for Urban Poor in Chandigarh City, India

Evidence shows that accessibility and availability of basic services such as housing, water supply, sanitation, road network and transport are essential for leading a decent life. In addition, international guidelines illustrate that the provision of basic services to the poor can help eradicate poverty too. However, since these are not readily available and accessible around world, the issue received universal recognition through the Millennium Development Goals on eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. Against this backdrop, the Government of India launched the Basic Service to Urban Poor Program (BSUP) under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission as a mandatory urban poverty reform. This research paper conducts an impact assessment of BSUP in Chandigarh, India. Further, to evaluate its impact on transforming quality of life of the urban poor, both before and after circumstances have been discussed. Research findings show that much has been accomplished through targeted efforts under this program in the city by the slum dwellers gaining access to improved water sources and sanitation facilities, and proper housing. However, the agenda for poverty reduction remains unfinished and the paper makes policy recommendations for better outcomes from the BSUP.