Civil engineers, academics, and policymakers on Sunday called for science-based urban planning, restoration of natural waterways, and stronger integration of research into public policy to address Bangladesh's growing vulnerability to climate change, rapid urbanization, and recurring urban flooding.
The call came at the closing ceremony of the Annual Paper Meet of Civil Engineering (APMCE 2026) and a seminar titled "Engineering a Sustainable Future: The Role of Civil Engineers in Achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals," organized by the Civil Engineering Division of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) at its headquarters in Ramna, Dhaka.
The two-day conference brought together researchers, academics, and professional engineers from universities and institutions across the country to present papers on infrastructure development, transportation, water resources, climate change, disaster risk reduction, environmental sustainability, and resilient urban development.
Speaking as the chief guest, Prof Dr Mohammad Iqbal, vice-chancellor of Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET), said Bangladesh must move beyond disaster response and adopt long-term, science-based development strategies that work with nature rather than against it.
"Our development planning must preserve rivers, canals, wetlands, and natural floodplains. If these natural systems are protected, many of the country's waterlogging, flooding, and environmental challenges can be significantly reduced," he said.
Referring to recurring urban flooding, he stressed the need to restore canals, maintain river navigability, and ensure uninterrupted natural water flow for sustainable water management. He also highlighted excessive siltation in rivers, saying regular dredging, scientific sediment management, and integrated river management are essential to addressing the country's drainage and flooding challenges.
Special guest Prof Dr Engr Md Abu Tayeb, head of the Department of Civil Engineering at DUET, said the Annual Paper Meet serves as an important platform for linking academic research with national development priorities.
"The recommendations presented in these research papers should not remain confined to academic discussions. They should be compiled and submitted to relevant ministries and government agencies to help inform policy formulation and infrastructure development," he said.
In his welcome address, Prof Dr Engr Md Sabbir Mostafa Khan, honorary general secretary of the IEB, referred to the widespread disruption caused by recent heavy rainfall in Dhaka and Chittagong. He said canal encroachment, the loss of wetlands, unplanned urban expansion, and clogged drains caused by solid waste continue to worsen urban waterlogging, while poor coordination among responsible agencies remains a major challenge.
The keynote paper was presented by Dr SM Atikul Islam, former professor of civil engineering at DUET. He said sustainable development must balance economic growth, environmental protection, and social inclusion while ensuring the responsible use of natural resources. He also called for wider adoption of green technologies, environmentally friendly construction materials, energy-efficient buildings, public transportation, electric vehicles, and pedestrian-friendly urban design to build more resilient cities.
The seminar was chaired by Engr Muhammad Shafiqul Islam (Khoka), chairman of the Civil Engineering Division of the IEB. Engr Md Ainul Kabir, vice-chairman of the division, delivered the vote of thanks, while Engr Nesar Uddin, secretary of the Civil Engineering Division, moderated the program.