Smaller slums face deeper poverty than larger ones in Dhaka: Report

Residents of smaller slums in Dhaka suffer from more severe multidimensional poverty than those living in larger settlements, according to Bangladesh Poverty Watch Report 2025 revealed on Tuesday.

The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) stands at 0.61 in small slums, compared to 0.54 in medium-sized slums and 0.38 in large slums, it said.

The report, titled "Demystifying Poverty Dynamics of Slum Dwellers in Dhaka City", was unveiled at a ceremony at the BRAC Centre in the capital, UNB reports.

Speaking at the event, Prof Dr Mahbubul Mokaddem said social cohesion and collective resilience among residents could help explain the lower poverty levels in larger slums.

"Poor people are not only objects; they are subjects as well," he said, observing that collective solidarity among slum dwellers could help them develop resilience and create opportunities for upward mobility despite their economic hardships.

Citing Korail slum as an example, he mentioned community initiatives, including a volunteer-run library that provides educational support to children who cannot afford regular schooling.

The report found that multidimensional poverty among slum dwellers is driven largely by inadequate living conditions, poor environmental quality, limited access to healthcare, and low educational attainment among adults. Deprivations are particularly concentrated in living standards and health.
Finance expert Zakir Ahmed Khan said addressing the problem required a holistic approach, warning that forced eviction or relocation cannot provide a sustainable solution.

He said in-situ slum upgrading would involve major challenges, particularly regarding land rights, secure tenure, infrastructure development, and access to microcredit for residents who often lack permanent addresses.

Sociologist Prof Salma Akhter stressed the disproportionate burden of poverty on women and children, raising concerns over their access to healthcare, sanitation, and other essential services.

The report recommended inclusive in-situ slum upgrading through secure tenure, affordable housing, basic services, livelihood opportunities, and community participation, supported by public- private partnerships.

The fourth volume of the Poverty Watch Report series was jointly         prepared by the Institute for Inclusive Finance and Development (InM) and the Centre for Inclusive Development Dialogue (CIDD).