Which of the following best describes informal settlements often seen in urban regions?

Informal settlements, commonly referred to as shanty towns, are characterized by their unplanned, makeshift nature and typically arise due to rapid urbanization and population growth. These areas often lack formal infrastructure and services such as clean water, electricity, and proper sanitation. Shanty towns are usually constructed from readily available materials, including scrap metal, wood, and plastic, which contribute to their precarious living conditions.

These settlements often emerge on the outskirts or margins of urban areas, where low-income individuals and families seek affordable housing in cities. Due to their informal status, residents may have limited rights to the land they occupy, which can lead to challenges such as eviction and inadequate living conditions. This context highlights why shanty towns are a distinct category of informal settlements, unlike planned neighborhoods, which are designed with specific infrastructure and amenities, or luxury apartments that cater to higher-income residents. Rural villages have a different context altogether, typically representing settled communities in non-urban areas.