Abstract:
The aim of the study is to explore the habitat security status of
urban households in the Batticaloa district. Primary and secondary data were
used in this study. Primary data were collected through the questionnaires. A
sample survey was conducted in 10 villages to collect information. Secondary
data were collected from various sources. Present study reports that more
than 43% of families who are living in temporary house, have owned well.
Common wells are used by 4% of families. At the same time 35% of families
do not have access to proper water but they are getting water from the small
ponds. Moreover, more than 58% of families, who are living in temporary
house, do not have toilet facility. Around 42% of families have toilet facilities.
It indicates that most of the families immediately need toilets facilities. The
present study recommends the following to ensure the habitat security of the
urban households in the Batticaloa district; integrated habitat development
project should be planned and implemented in district level, strengthening
and empowerment of urban community, implementing loan schemes with
low interest for owner driven housing construction, upgrading infrastructure
and services, providing improved basic services to the urban communities
and providing livelihood supports. This issue also needs further researches
which can help policy makers in order to provide better housing and
eliminating poverty in the region as well as in the country.
