Project Description:

The purpose of this feasibility study was to study environmental and social aspects, identify access to community infrastructure, address urban disaster risks and challenges with priority interventions, and identify means for smart, sustainable, and inclusive cities. The study area covered slums in Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Gazipur City Corporation (GCC).  Using both quantitative and qualitative methods, DM WATCH LIMITED conducted the feasibility study by collecting data through a questionnaire survey, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and transact walks. The probability sampling technique was used for quantitative data collection, while qualitative data was collected based on purposive sampling. At the end, a total of 810 quantitative data, 35 qualitative data, and 8 transect walks were obtained from the data collection. The study employed the urban resilience framework to fulfil the objective of making smart, sustainable, and inclusive cities. In this framework, there are five factors to consider: urban governance, urban planning and environment, resilient infrastructure and basic services, urban economy and society, and urban disaster risk management.  

The findings showed that most people living in these low-income villages have access to at least one source of potable water. In addition, most people living in low-income neighbourhoods in both DNCC and GCC have access to insufficient sanitation facilities. As a result, an appreciable number of individuals do not have access to enough clean drinking water and sanitation facilities, which results in several different health risks. It has been discovered that most people are aware of the threats posed by hazards and disasters, which is evidenced by the fact that this is the case. The study region contains several common dangers, including waterlogging, fire outbreaks, and garbage that is not managed properly. Furthermore, it was discovered that virtually all the persons residing in the low-income communities of the research region are immigrants who have been living in the community for an extended period. Improved opportunities for them to make a living are the driving force for their relocation. The report played a vital role by recommending specific programmatic recommendations and actions aimed at future programming.