Title: Urbanisation and environmental degradation in Dhaka Metropolitan Area of Bangladesh

Authors: Ashraf M. Dewan; Md. Humayun Kabir; Kamrun Nahar; Md. Ziaur Rahman

Addresses: Department of Spatial Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, Perth 6102, Western Australia; Department of Geography and Environment, University of Dhaka, Ramna, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh. ' Department of Geography and Environment, University of Dhaka, Ramna, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh. ' Department of Geography and Environment, University of Dhaka, Ramna, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh. ' Department of Sociology, University of Dhaka, Ramna, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh

Abstract: Using available data on relevant issues and onsite field visits, this paper documented the environmental problems associated with the unprecedented urbanisation in Dhaka Metropolitan Area of Bangladesh. Analyses revealed that a rapid spatial expansion of the city has been taking place alongside the remarkable rise in urban population, simultaneously putting immense pressure on natural resource-base. Substantial changes that were observed in land use and cover are believed to be a significant factor in elevating the risk of natural hazards, particularly flooding during monsoon. In addition, air, water, and noise quality, have all become acute, and are subsequently posing uncertain liabilities to the inhabitants' health of the area. Rapid uncoordinated urbanisation gives rise to a spectacular growth of slums and squatters, making 3.4 million slum dwellers in 2006 from only 1.5 million in 1996. Achieving sustainable urban development in the DMA therefore, requires tackling the environmental problems in a rational manner.

Keywords: Dhaka Metropolitan Area; DMA; urbanisation; environmental degradation; sustainable development; environmental pollution; Bangladesh; sustainability; sustainable urban development; slums; natural resources; natural hazards; flooding.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESD.2012.049178

International Journal of Environment and Sustainable Development, 2012 Vol.11 No.2, pp.118 - 147

Received: 10 Dec 2011
Accepted: 25 May 2012
Published online: 30 Aug 2014 *

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