Ferdousi Begum: Bangladesh still faces certain urban challenges

Despite its achievements in urban development, Bangladesh continues to face certain challenges, Ferdousi Begum, representative of Bangladesh's Ministry of Development and Public Works, said during the ministerial roundtable at the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Report informs.

She noted that Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world:

"Population density creates major difficulties, but it also offers opportunities to advance economic growth, meet social needs, and strengthen climate resilience. With this understanding, the government has placed urban development and inclusive growth at the center of the national development agenda, aligning it with the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals."

Begum highlighted that in recent years, the government adopted an Urban Development Act to ensure balanced distribution of population and resources across the country:

"The concept of 'Housing for All' is a key objective of our national urban policy. To provide adequate housing for low‑income people, the government has implemented several slum upgrading projects."

She acknowledged that despite progress, Bangladesh still faces serious challenges:

"Rapid urban growth, land shortages, expansion of informal settlements, and increasing climate risks remain major issues. However, these challenges also create opportunities to invest in institutions and expand green, smart solutions. Bangladesh's future plans focus on expanding affordable housing, strengthening urban governance, and developing partnerships."