SS News Desk
Dhaka, 30 July 2025:
UNOPS Bangladesh convened the 15th edition of its flagship SDG Café today, focusing on the theme ‘Resilient Future through Sustainable Urban Development in Bangladesh.’
The event brought together policymakers, urban planners, civil society members, academics, and international partners to explore strategies for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11: making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
As one of the fastest urbanizing countries in South Asia, Bangladesh faces mounting challenges such as climate-induced disasters, unplanned expansion, inadequate infrastructure, and rising inequality.
The session emphasized the urgency of adopting integrated planning, climate-adaptive infrastructure, and participatory governance to address these complex issues.
Dr. Adil Mohammed Khan, Professor at Jahangirnagar University and President of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners, delivered the keynote address, identifying structural gaps in current urban systems and calling for inclusive and climate-resilient development approaches.
Sudhir Muralidharan, Country Manager of UNOPS Bangladesh and Bhutan, highlighted the need for collaboration, stating, “Urban resilience is not an abstract goal—it is a daily imperative for millions of Bangladeshis. Partnerships and innovation are vital for reimagining our cities.”
The Café’s interactive format enabled vibrant discussions on affordable housing, slum upgrading, green spaces, sustainable transport, and innovative financing. Participants stressed the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement in shaping effective urban strategies.
The session concluded with a shared commitment to accelerating the implementation of SDG 11 through policy innovation, partnership building, and local leadership. UNOPS reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh’s pursuit of a sustainable and equitable urban future.
Source: UNOPS Press Release
