The Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP) has called for long-term and coordinated planning to address Dhaka’s worsening livability crisis.
The call came at a press conference titled “Livability of Dhaka City: Challenges and Planned Solutions” at the Planners Tower in the capital on Tuesday.
BIP President planner Dr Muhammad Ariful Islam said Dhaka ranked 171st among 173 cities in the global livability index, reflecting serious challenges in transport, pollution, waterlogging, public health, safety and access to green spaces.
He said only 7.99% of Dhaka’s 99.29-square-kilometre area is green space, which is inadequate for a livable city. Traffic congestion also causes an estimated **Tk37,000 crore in economic losses** annually, while around 27% of daily waste remains uncollected or improperly disposed of.
BIP General Secretary Prof Dr Md Mosleh Uddin Hasan said weak institutions, poor coordination and failure to properly implement existing plans have contributed to the city’s current condition.
The organisation also expressed concern over noise, visual and light pollution, unplanned urbanisation, excessive building density and inadequate waste management, which are increasing public health risks.
BIP presented seven recommendations, including ensuring continuity and full implementation of approved urban plans regardless of political or administrative changes. It also urged authorities not to alter or scrap approved plans for commercial or personal interests.
The planners stressed that coordinated action and proper implementation of long-term plans are essential to make Dhaka safer, healthier and more livable.
