Kachcha

Kachcha, also spelled kachcha-pukka or kachcha-pucca, is a term used in South Asia to describe an unfinished or semi-finished state of construction. It refers to buildings that are partially constructed, often with exposed brickwork, concrete, or mud walls, and may lack roofs, plaster, windows, or doors. These structures are typically found in rural areas or in the transitional stages of development in urban environments.

The term "kachcha" signifies a temporary or incomplete dwelling. While some kachcha structures are intended to be temporary shelters that will eventually be replaced by more permanent buildings, others may remain in this state for extended periods due to economic limitations or a preference for a particular building style. They are often built with locally available materials like mud, bamboo, straw, or unbaked bricks.

In contrast, "pucca" construction refers to permanent buildings made with durable materials such as fired bricks, cement, concrete, and steel. The distinction between kachcha and pucca is a fundamental concept in understanding housing and development patterns across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other South Asian countries. The transition from kachcha to pucca housing is often seen as an indicator of socio-economic progress.