Environmental scientists and city planners have suggested new, nature-based ideas to solve the problems in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. These problems include rising temperatures, severe heat from the ‘Urban Heat Island’ effect, and sudden waterlogging caused by climate change.
A recent seminar, jointly organized by the Capital Development Authority (Rajdhani Unnayan Kartipakkha (RAJUK) – RAJUK), Bangladesh, and experts, highlighted that there is no alternative to rooftop gardens, vertical gardening, and the preservation of water bodies if the city is to lower its temperature and maintain natural drainage systems.
Planning and Strategic Measures: To transform Dhaka into a livable and climate-resilient city, several rigorous and effective measures are being implemented under the Detailed Area Plan (DAP 2022-2035) of Dhaka:
Blue-Green Networks and Water Body Protection: To keep the natural flow of water bodies, rivers, and canals—which act like the city’s lungs—the DAP bans building any permanent structures in marked ‘flood-flow zones.’ Furthermore, initiatives are underway to provide legal protection for water bodies like the Gulshan-Banani Lake and to evict illegal encroachers from other lakes and ponds.
Rooftop Gardens and Green Architecture: RAJUK Chairman Md. Riazul Islam and Chief Urban Planner Md. Ashraful Islam said that new tall buildings must have rainwater systems and plants on the roofs or walls. These green initiatives will play a vital role in curbing the temperature rise caused by the excessive use of concrete and glass-heavy building designs.
Conclusion and ‘Green Page’ Perspective: Unplanned urbanization and the filling of wetlands have effectively turned Dhaka into a concrete furnace.
Green Page believes Dhaka can change into a green. and active city if all buildings have rooftop gardens and natural water sources protected, not just by making rules.
