First appeared in
Asian Development Bank
100 Climate Actions from Cities in Asia and the Pacific
A $223 million development project in Dhaka and Khulna will provide climate resilient drainage systems, urban roads, and solid waste management in order to reduce flood vulnerability, increase mobility, and improve living conditions in the region.
A $223 million development project in Dhaka and Khulna will provide climate resilient drainage systems, urban roads, and solid waste management in order to reduce flood vulnerability, increase mobility, and improve living conditions in the region.
The Second City Region Development Project will include the rehabilitation of 300 kilometers (km) of urban roads in and around Dhaka and Khulna, two rapidly growing cities. The inclusion of higher embankments, roadside drains, and landscaping to absorb excess water will mitigate some damage from flooding, allowing residents to access public services in times of need.
Both Dhaka and Khulna are located in the vicinity of the world’s largest river delta, the Ganges Delta. Coupled with the fact that they are also close to sea level, both are particularly vulnerable to flooding. Improvements to 150 km of drainage systems, green slope protection, and enlarged retention reservoirs will increase flood resilience, with the flood inundation period expected to decrease by 30% during an average monsoon season.
2.5K
HECTARES OF LAND PROTECTED FROM FLOODING DURING MONSOON SEASON
HECTARES OF LAND PROTECTED FROM FLOODING DURING MONSOON SEASON
A final element of the project focuses on solid waste management, with the construction of a composting plant and biogas production facilities in Khulna. Alongside a public awareness campaign about recycling, this approach seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decrease water pollution, and improve sanitation practices.
The project is assisted by a $150 million ADB loan.
Dhaka is expected to become the world’s fourth-largest urban area by 2025, putting a major strain on urban infrastructure and the environment (photo by ADB).
The Challenge
Climate change impacts, including heavier rainfall and increased flooding, will stress existing drainage and stormwater management systems in Dhaka and Khulna.
Co-Benefits
Economic The drainage subproject will reduce flood damage, road maintenance costs, and earning losses during waterlogging periods.
Social Improved roads will provide safer and more pedestrian-friendly traveling conditions, and will enable residents to better access health and education services.
Health Better sanitation practices and enhanced solid waste management will lower the risk of waterborne diseases during times of flooding.