Bangladesh’s chaotic urban growth demands urgent reform and sustainable solutions
Bangladesh's rapid urban growth, predominantly unplanned, has led to significant challenges. With only 60% of Dhaka having access to piped water and less than 50% of waste properly managed, the city faces severe infrastructure issues. Traffic congestion and outdated urban planning exacerbate these problems, while land grabbing and encroachment on public spaces further strain resources.
Dr. Nasim Ahmed, currently working as an author and moderator for the Middle East Monitor's podcast 'Palestine This Week', has highlighted these urban governance issues. He notes that traffic congestion in cities like Dhaka and Chattogram results in substantial economic losses and health risks due to air pollution. Outdated laws and ineffective enforcement contribute to these problems, with rampant land grabbing and illegal construction commonplace.
Looking to other countries for solutions, Dr. Ahmed points to successful strategies in Vietnam, Indonesia, and India. These include decentralisation and community-based planning. However, in Dhaka, multiple agencies with overlapping duties lead to inefficiencies and accountability issues. Furthermore, urban expansion often encroaches on natural ecosystems, increasing the risk of city flooding.
To address these urban governance challenges, Bangladesh needs a comprehensive reform strategy. This includes institutional coordination, legal reforms, participatory planning, capacity building, technological adoption, and environmental protection. By learning from other countries and implementing these reforms, Bangladesh can hope to manage its urban growth more effectively, ensuring a sustainable future for its cities.
Read also:
- Timberland and Stanley 1913 lead the charge in sustainable take-back programs
- California Water Service upgrades infrastructure with new pipelines and proposes rate hike
- Black Friday slashes MacBook Air and Surface Laptop 7 to record-low prices
- Artist Zainab Odemwingie Launches 'My African Baby' to Preserve Cultural Heritage
