Improving Dhaka's liveability

In terms of liveability, there has been little improvement in Dhaka's global ranking this year. The Bangladesh capital reportedly ranks as the seventh least liveable city in the world, moving up three spots from its 2021 ranking, according to an annual report from the Economist Intelligence Unit. However, this city has consistently remained among the worst ten performers in the index since 2012. The worldwide league table ranks 140 cities on a range of factors, including political and social stability, crime, education and access to healthcare.

If one starts making a list of problems in Dhaka city, it will be a long one and would continue without an end. Almost every neighbourhood of the city is totally in an unliveable condition. We are implementing mega projects but not focusing much on improving the quality of our life and environment. As a result, there is shortage of green spaces, parks, lack of proper development of roads and drainage systems in our beloved city. Our liveability index will not improve as long as we do not pay proper attention to improving the environment and civic facilities at community level.

We have failed to chalk out any short-term or long-term plans for making Dhaka city more liveable and creating public awareness in this regard. Many people have compromised the interest of the city for personal gains. We hope every one of us will one day realise the importance of a liveable city and, someday our collective efforts will make this historical city liveable again.

Abu Elias Linkon,

Banasree, Dhaka,

[email protected]