How we make a difference  

Slums environments transformed

In Asha slums, scenes are very different from those in most slum areas. Houses are still extremely basic, but the roads between them are paved, making negotiation of the narrow lanes much easier, and drains running through the lanes are cleared regularly.

Community pride in environment

Most people take a pride in their community and homes - a house no bigger than many people's bathrooms in more developed areas will house around 7 people and yet floors are swept thoroughly and their possessions arranged carefully inside. Children look bright-eyed and lively, and run out to greet visitors with smiles.

Access to clean water and sanitation

There are working water pumps placed within reasonable reach of all houses and electricity is more accessible than ever. Drains are kept clear and the lane volunteers make sure that people in their care are aware of the consequences of unsanitary conditions around their homes.  

Improvements in quality and quantity of water have led to water taps being shared amongst fewer than 20 households in most cases (the slum average is between 100 and 150 households per tap).

The communities have organised collection points for refuse, and since 1994, Asha has ensured that the city authorities provide sweepers for slums.

Asha slums have toilet complexes available for the slum inhabitants. Providing access to latrines, one of the most basic needs for any human settlement, greatly improves the immediate environment and drastically reduces the spread of disease in the areas around the slums. Every project of Asha since 1993 has a community latrine, with an average of 1 per 21 people - the Delhi slum average is 1 per 180 people.

Safe areas for children 

Children play in parks in areas which once overflowed with rubbish, and in several slum areas they have resource centres. The centres are quiet havens in which the children can play, read or complete their homework; some have computers available for the children to use.