CITIES

Bhuj is located in the Gujarat region of western India, with approximately 213,514 residents. The city faced a transformative moment in 2001 when a devastating earthquake rendered a significant portion of the population homeless, leaving lasting impacts on its urban fabric. Today, about one-third of Bhuj's population lives in informal settlements that occupy only 6% of the city's area, highlighting significant spatial and social inequalities. The city is characterised by its diverse social composition across class, caste, and religious groups. Young people represent a significant demographic, particularly engaged through platforms like the community radio Bhuj Bole Chhe (BBC) and various civil society networks. Recent community assessments have highlighted key youth concerns including limited employment opportunities, housing accessibility, and the need for greater participation in local governance. Despite these challenges, young people in Bhuj demonstrate strong engagement in community development through various grassroots organisations, including women's self-help groups, street vendors' federations, and youth collectives.

Dharan is situated in the Sunsari district of Eastern Nepal, with a population of 173,096 residents. The city is marked by significant socio-economic diversity and hosts over 100 informal settlements, reflecting broader patterns of urban inequality. Following recent municipal elections and national decentralisation processes, the city is experiencing renewed focus on urban development, particularly around water, sanitation, and solid waste management. Young people in Dharan face particular challenges around livelihood opportunities, leading to significant migration both within Nepal and internationally. The Dharan Youth Network, established in 2008, has been actively working on child rights, housing advocacy, and community health issues. Youth in Dharan are particularly concerned about infrastructure development, educational access, and environmental sustainability, with many expressing strong interest in using innovative methods like street drama and digital media for community advocacy.