Experts on Wednesday suggested developing an inclusive city in a discussion held at the National Press Club ahead of mayoral election.
Priorities for the elected mayor must include fair land management, accessible transport system, women-friendly streets and public space, pollution-free city and recreational facility for people of all ages among others. A coalition of seven organisations published citizens’ manifesto considering upcoming mayoral election in Dhaka.
Urban Working Group, Bangladesh Urban Forum, Nagar Daridra Basteebashir Unnayan Sangstha, Democratic Budget Movement, Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Coalition for Urban Poor and Safety and Rights Society jointly organised the event .
Adil Mohammad Khan, secretary, Bangladesh Institute of Planners and Monower Mostafa, general secretary of Democratic Budget Movement (DBM) were present as special guests.
Aamanur Rahman, director of CARE Bangladesh presented key recommendations.
Experts discussed that under the current framework, the city corporations do not necessarily have the legal or financial mandate to work in a number of areas which involve city planning, traffic management, security, utility services, waterways, and the environment; mayors must ensure coordination among different services to make city inclusive.
Women, children and persons with disability suffer most while plying in Dhaka and there must be concrete steps from elected representatives of the city to solve transport problems. Discussants recommended better access to public service, progressive tax management and creation of more public spaces for children and elderly people, says a press release.
