Diffusion and adoption of sanitation facilities among urban poor: navigating challenges

India’s expanding urban slums require sanitation policy expansion to address inadequate infrastructure and growing population living without proper sanitation and hygiene services. This study aims to identify the barriers to sanitation that contribute to inadequate accessibility and adoption of sanitation and hygiene practices in urban slums, while also identifying drivers that can promote the diffusion of sanitation innovation. Objective of this study was achieved by comparing two urban slum populations in Delhi, India, characterized by similar socioeconomic conditions but differing sanitation and hygiene practices. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through household surveys and interviews with various stakeholders. Statistical analysis was performed to the quantitative data, while a framework based on structural and social barriers was employed for analyzing the qualitative data. Result indicates that segments of the population with similar socioeconomic status may exhibit diverse sanitation and hygiene adoption behaviors due to various social and structural barriers. Social barriers can be effectively addressed through education, training, and awareness programs, while structural barriers require coherent planning and bridging the gap between policy intentions and implementation. Taking a holistic approach, active social participation and empowering slum communities can serve as effective and sustainable strategies for managing inequities. By implementing these measures, it is possible to create a transformative impact and promote equitable access to sanitation and hygiene services in urban slums. This study suggests that policymakers should formulate comprehensive policies or programs to enhance sanitation and hygiene adoption in urban slums, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to address these barriers effectively.