How do the cities of Bangladesh compare to those in the Philippines?
The economic growth and development nature of Dhaka and Manila are very similar. But currently the Philippine cities are recognised as comparatively cleaner and more peaceful. We have developed these urban areas, with Metro Manila now becoming more liveable following an integrated plan for the all cities.How was this achieved?
If each city corporation or municipality has a separate fixed development plan, there may be some invisible errors and in future the plans may make certain contradictions.
Currently, Dhaka has two city corporations and many public development agencies. All the departments might have separate development plans. One plan by a certain development organisation can make things complex for another agency.
But it is possible to do an integrated master plan for Dhaka incorporating all the agencies. That means, Dhaka will have one integrated master plan, with all concerned agencies doing their respective parts.What is the biggest challenge for a city like Dhaka?
As a rapidly growing city, Dhaka has many types of problems. One of them is distress caused during the construction of a mega project like a flyover or metro rail. Manila or Calbayog or any of the developing (Philippine) cities has similar problems. But we overcome such problems by drawing a proper traffic management system.How can Dhaka pursue infrastructure development without disrupting city life?
It is easy to build a new city, but it is hard to renovate or restructure (an existing) city.
There are two issues — one is to ensure uninterrupted traffic, second is to ensure public safety. We generally announce an advance notice to the city dwellers. For example, from 6pm to 6am commuters should drive in two lanes instead of four. We also suggest using alternative routes if possible to ensure uninterrupted traffic.How can Dhaka City get a better traffic system?
During my visit to Dhaka City, I thought people like using private transportation. I was informed Dhaka’s public transport system is currently too poor.
It is not possible to better a traffic system without improving the public transport. Metro Manila has improved its traffic by developing its rapid transit system.
Secondly, the traffic rules should be followed strictly, while the movement of slow and speeding vehicles together is slowing down the average traffic speed. This system should be avoided.Do you think decentralisation of Dhaka can make it more liveable?
I think your government can develop other cities of importance and that can help to reduce rapid migration to Dhaka. If other cities can achieve a similar scope of employment and fulfill basic needs like education and healthcare, the inflow to Dhaka might slow down. Dhaka is also one expensive city.
Finally, I would like to say to make better a city, good governance is very important. Without good leadership and vision, it not possible to develop a city to an international standard.
