In Bogotá, the issue of informal housing remains a significant challenge. According to a study by the Colombian Chamber of Construction (Camacol) Bogotá and Cundinamarca, about 22% of the city’s households live in informal settlements. This translates to over 554,000 families residing in areas without proper access to essential services, occupying illegal properties, and living in structures made from substandard materials.
These informal settlements are spread across more than 12,324 blocks within the city. Residents often face inadequate access to utilities such as clean water, electricity, and sanitation facilities. The precarious nature of these dwellings not only affects the quality of life but also poses health and safety risks to the inhabitants.
The persistence of informal housing underscores the need for comprehensive urban planning and housing policies that address the root causes of this issue. Ensuring access to affordable and adequate housing is crucial for improving living conditions and promoting social equity in Bogotá.