Dhaka: State Minister for Social Welfare Barrister Farzana Sharmin has emphasized the government's commitment to constructing inclusive, livable, and climate-resilient urban environments. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the National Urban Forum in the capital today, she highlighted the effective steps undertaken to implement the urban policy targeting this ambitious goal.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the two-day forum is a collaborative effort organized by the Local Government Division and UNDP Bangladesh, with support from ADB, JICA, Islamic Development Bank, BUET, and the Bangladesh Institute of Planners. Farzana stated that coordinated initiatives are in place to develop cities through a sustainable framework, ensuring that every city resident would live with dignity and security, while also being protected from natural disasters and environmental hazards.
She further mentioned the government's vision to create cities that offer a safe, supportive, and pollution-free environment for future generations. UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stephen Rodriques noted that the forum signifies the start of a shared responsibility to tackle urban challenges.
Deputy High Commissioner and Development Director at the British High Commission Dhaka, James Goldman, expressed optimism that the forum would enhance cooperation on sustainable urban development. Discussions during the forum addressed challenges such as traffic congestion, waterlogging, waste management, pollution, and limited institutional capacity, particularly focusing on the economic activities surrounding Dhaka and the Dhaka-Chattogram corridor.