STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Speakers at a discussion yesterday said integrated urban development and transport planning aligned with sustainable energy systems is crucial in the context of the evolving global situation.

They stressed the need for energy impact assessments to measure and reduce energy consumption across sectors.

The discussion, titled “Urbanisation and Development Thinking in Bangladesh in the Context of the Energy Crisis and Changing Global Situation”, was organised by the Institute for Planning and Development (IPD) at the Bishwo Shahitto Kendro’s conference room in Dhaka.

IPD Executive Director Prof Adil Muhammed Khan identified energy-efficient lighting and effective public transportation as key ways to reduce demand.

He called for strengthening rail-and-water-based transport services, warning that overdependence on roads and fossil fuels is unsustainable in the long term.

He also recommended planned expansion of electric vehicles, highlighted the need for energy demand mapping and realistic rationing during power shortages, and underscored expanding public-private partnerships (PPP), microfinance, and community-based initiatives, alongside raising awareness through education, research, and alternative energy use.

Dr Ariful Islam, president of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners and also IPD director, said rural energy shortages are accelerating migration to cities, hindering decentralisation and sustainable development.

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