BORDA (Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association), founded in 1977, is a civil society expert organisation focused on the provision of essential public services. Through our regional office in Bangalore, India, BORDA South Asia operates in four countries: India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal. According to the World Bank, 2.5 billion people do not have access to improved sanitation. Through engagement with partner organisations, BORDA South Asia aims to improve the living conditions of socially disadvantaged groups by facilitating access to basic needs services such as sanitation, wastewater management and water provision while maintaining a safe environment. This is our contribution to creating liveable cities and communities for all. The phenomenal urban population growth in South Asia is not supported by proportionate infrastructure development. Substantial portions of the population are deprived of basic services such as potable water, sanitation, and drainage. Cities are suffering from environmental degradation. Poverty and lack of housing is reflected in the growth of the informal sector, slums and squatter settlements.