The expansion of the capital city
Saturday, 15 November 2008
THE capital city continues to grow in all directions. Despite expansion, the city has become so congested that it offers no corner for setting up of quiet residential areas. Despite its tremendous expansion, Uttara Model Town has become overcrowded. It could not be imagined 15 years back.
This is happening in the absence of proper urban planning. A lack of a comprehensive policy for the country encourages people to rush to the city for jobs, education etc. Besides, the city expansion is not following a proper master plan. The developers, who tend not to follow the law, are spoiling the beauty of the city. Many city areas have, as a result, become overcrowded and unfit for human habitation.
For example, Shantinagar proliferates with too many multi-storied buildings, that were built during the last few years. The continuing spate of construction of multi-storied apartment buildings is leaving no space in the city that the people so badly need. Shopping malls are being constructed without leaving the needed space around. Shops and vendors make things worse. Will there be any space in the city for people to walk?
So we would urge the policy makers to pay attention to migration from the rural areas and also to real estate development to make the city habitable. They have to review the migration policy, the city's master plan and building codes. They have to take necessary steps to plan afresh removing flaws.
Kazi Zaman
Shantinagar
Dhaka
This is happening in the absence of proper urban planning. A lack of a comprehensive policy for the country encourages people to rush to the city for jobs, education etc. Besides, the city expansion is not following a proper master plan. The developers, who tend not to follow the law, are spoiling the beauty of the city. Many city areas have, as a result, become overcrowded and unfit for human habitation.
For example, Shantinagar proliferates with too many multi-storied buildings, that were built during the last few years. The continuing spate of construction of multi-storied apartment buildings is leaving no space in the city that the people so badly need. Shopping malls are being constructed without leaving the needed space around. Shops and vendors make things worse. Will there be any space in the city for people to walk?
So we would urge the policy makers to pay attention to migration from the rural areas and also to real estate development to make the city habitable. They have to review the migration policy, the city's master plan and building codes. They have to take necessary steps to plan afresh removing flaws.
Kazi Zaman
Shantinagar
Dhaka