Jisan Al Jubair:

The Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) hosted a roundtable on Thursday to discuss the “Re Development of Dhaka City: Best Utilization of Land & Services.” Stakeholders from various sectors converged to address the city’s burgeoning challenges and explore solutions for its revival.

Former IEB president Nurul Huda underscored the need for extensive collaboration. He emphasized effective coordination between Dhaka’s municipal corporations, surrounding areas, government departments, and service providers.  Huda even proposed a dedicated ministry to spearhead this collaborative effort. 

In the round table meeting, Manjurul Haque Manju, Honorary Secretary General, IEB delivered the welcome speech.

Chair of IEB’s Civil Engineering Division Soumitra Kumar Mutsuddi delivered the vote of thanks. He urged a holistic approach that considers the mental well-being of Dhaka’s residents alongside infrastructural development.

A.F.M. Saiful Amin, Professor at BUET and Chair of the Board of Accreditation for Engineering and Technical Education, moderated the roundtable discussions.

Professor Adil Mohammad Khan, President of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners, recognised the political commitment to beautifying Dhaka. However, he stressed the need for a fresh strategic approach to achieve this goal.

Ashraful Islam, Chief Urban Planner at the Capital Development Authority (RAJUK), emphasized the importance of public participation in their policy formulation. He assured residents that the redevelopment plans would prioritize resettlement opportunities over eviction.

Professor Mizanur Rahman, Professor at BUET and Director of the Department of Student Welfare, highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships for successful redevelopment and resettlement. He also emphasized the need for a robust acquisition act and efficient public transportation, particularly the expansion of the Metrorail network in densely populated areas.

Samsuddin Ahmad Chowdhury, Member (Development) at RAJUK, flagged the long-neglected issue of waterlogging in Dhaka’s infrastructure plans.  Former REHAB President Abdul Awal further emphasized the need for decentralization to alleviate the pressure of Dhaka’s burgeoning population.

Khandkar Mahbub Alam, Superintending Engineer at DNCC, highlighted the critical role of a proper sewage system and the restoration of the Dhaka Canal for the city’s long-term sustainability. Architect Kazi Ghulam Nasir, former Chief Architect at the Directorate of Architecture, stressed that quality services are fundamental to building a thriving city. Masud Karim, Chief Reporter at the Daily Jugantar, urged the media to play a proactive role by disseminating accurate information and fostering civil movements that support development efforts.

Syed Shihabur Rahman, Secretary, Civil Engineering Division, IEB conducted the program. Nuruzzaman, Vice-President (Administration & Finance), IEB; Kazi Khairul Bashar, Vice-President (Academic and International), IEB were present as special guests.

The roundtable discussions highlighted the need for a multifaceted approach to Dhaka’s redevelopment. Collaboration, public participation, and a focus on both infrastructure and resident well-being will be crucial for the city’s successful rejuvenation.