Final Year Project

Project Title

Fragmented Bonds: Unpacking the Erosion of Social Capital in Karachi Neighborhoods and Its Impact on Community Security

Description

Fragmented Bonds examines the erosion of social capital in Karachi's neighborhoods and its impact on community security. It explores declining trust, reciprocity, and engagement, identifying urbanization, defensive architecture, and digital shifts as key factors. Findings reveal weaker neighborhood ties, increasing social isolation, and reduced safety at night. To counteract this, the study proposes Pehra, a neighborhood safety app fostering community engagement through real-time issue reporting, emergency alerts, discussions, and event organization. By integrating social science and design thinking, Pehra aims to restore trust, encourage participation, and enhance security. This research highlights how stronger social networks can reduce crime, improve safety, and create resilient communities. By reconnecting neighbors and promoting collective action, it offers a practical, tech-driven solution to Karachi's social fragmentation reinforcing the importance of social capital in sustainable urban development.