Rajshahi:Divisional Commissioner Yusuf Ali has emphasized the importance of sustainable urbanization, planned housing, and the use of environmentally friendly renewable energy to develop Rajshahi into an eco-friendly city. Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting held at the Rajshahi District Shilpakala Academy auditorium to mark World Habitat Day 2026, he highlighted the need for construction in accordance with a proper master plan and established rules.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was organized by the Divisional Administration and Rajshahi Development Authority (RDA) under the theme 'Universal Housing, Sustainable Urbanization.' Commissioner Yusuf Ali warned against constructing buildings with unauthorized designs or adding extra floors beyond approved designs, citing safety risks for the city.
The commissioner also discussed government initiatives to promote green energy as a means to combat climate change. He noted the opportunity to supply excess electricity generated from solar panels on rooftops to the national grid, mentioning the government's policy to purchase solar electricity at Tk 10.50 per unit under the net-metering facility. This initiative is seen as crucial in building an environmentally friendly city.
Solar panels have already been installed on the rooftops of the Divisional Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner's offices, with plans to expand this installation to all government buildings. Commissioner Yusuf Ali called on the Rajshahi Development Authority to ensure planned development through strict supervision and efficient work practices to transform Rajshahi into a 'Green and Clean City.'
The event also featured Professor Dr. Md Abdul Wakil, Head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at RUET, as the keynote speaker, and Om Prakash Nandi, Additional Chief Engineer of Rajshahi Public Works Zone, as a discussant. The RDA Chairman Abul Kalam Azad Sweet presided over the event, with several special guests in attendance, including RMP Commissioner Mohammad Faizul Kabir and Additional DIG of Rajshahi Range Khandaker Md Shamim Hossain.
A colorful rally was conducted earlier, starting from the Divisional Commissioner's office and concluding at the District Shilpakala Academy, passing through key roads in the city.