Dhaka: Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher today emphasized the necessity of constructing a safe and livable Bangladesh for future generations through science-based planning, ensuring a balance between development and the environment. The minister's comments came as he addressed the 'National Seminar on Three Projects Scheduled for Completion in Fiscal Year 2025-26,' organized by the Urban Development Directorate at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seminar featured special guests including State Minister for Housing and Public Works Ahammad Sohel Monzoor and Dr. Neemat Ulya Bhuiyan, senior secretary of the Physical Infrastructure Division of the Planning Commission. The event was chaired by the additional secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, Md. Abdul Matin.
Minister Taher highlighted the necessity of integrated spatial planning in this era of rapid urbanization to ensure planned, inclusive, and sustainable urban development. He stated that the planning of the three projects scheduled for completion prioritized protecting agricultural land, conserving the environment, improving communication systems, expanding civic amenities, mitigating waterlogging, reducing disaster risks, and developing local economic potential. These initiatives aim to bring positive changes in building climate-resilient infrastructure, protecting the environment, preserving biodiversity, and improving people's quality of life.
State Minister Ahammad Sohel Monzoor underscored the importance of spatial planning in constructing people-friendly and modern cities. He noted that although similar plans had been formulated in the past, they were not implemented effectively, and stressed the need to ensure the successful execution of the three projects presented at the seminar.
In his welcome speech, the director of the Urban Development Directorate, M. Mahmud Ali, outlined various activities related to the three projects scheduled for completion. Project directors also provided detailed information on the progress, implementation status, and future course of action for these development projects set for completion in fiscal year 2025-26.
During the open discussion session, stakeholders and participants related to the projects shared their opinions on the information and outcomes derived from the projects. Officials from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works and its subordinate departments and agencies were present at the seminar.