Smart cities utilize technology and data to enhance quality of life, ensure sustainability, and improve the efficiency of city operations. These urban areas integrate information and communication technologies (ICT) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to manage transportation, energy, and infrastructure more effectively. The more a city incorporates these technologies, the smarter it becomes.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s call to transition from a “Digital Bangladesh” to a “Smart Bangladesh” marks a significant milestone. To achieve this vision, Bangladesh must develop smart cities with elements such as advanced traffic management systems, smart surveillance, and e-governance platforms. Cities like Sylhet and Dhaka are already on this path, needing smart renewable energy solutions, expanded public Wi-Fi zones, and extensive use of IoT devices for city management.
At the Dawki-Tamabil border crossing, the efficiency of Bangladesh’s smart systems is evident. The Tamabil Land Customs Station and Immigration department utilize computer stations to input data directly into the central server in Dhaka. This seamless integration of technology ensures smooth immigration processes, unlike the manual systems still in place on the Indian side. The Bangladesh Machine Readable Visa (MRV) system exemplifies e-governance, allowing citizens to access government services online, participate in decision-making, and provide feedback.
In both Sylhet and Dhaka, hotels are equipped with modern conveniences such as high-speed internet, LED TVs, and ergonomic workspaces. These features highlight the integration of technology into daily life, making everyday activities more efficient and enjoyable. Urban mobility has also been transformed, with ride-sharing services like Uber becoming readily available.
Smart cities encompass more than just improved urban mobility and energy-efficient buildings. Effective waste management systems in Dhaka’s upscale areas of Gulshan and Banani have reduced roadside litter, showcasing successful waste segregation and recycling programs.
Sylhet boasts smart healthcare facilities and educational initiatives, contributing to a comprehensive urban environment. Conversations with local youth reveal a familiarity with IoT devices, data analytics, cloud computing, and AI-powered solutions, indicating a tech-savvy population ready to embrace smart city innovations.
Despite significant progress, Bangladesh faces challenges such as infrastructure limitations, funding constraints, data privacy concerns, and ensuring inclusivity in technological advancements. However, the commitment to leveraging technology for urban development is evident. Bangladesh’s “Smart Bangladesh Vision 2041” focuses on creating smart citizens, a smart government, a smart economy, and a smart society. The momentum towards developing smart cities is strong, aiming to create livable and resilient urban areas.
Bangladesh is in the early stages of its smart city journey, but the dedication to integrating technology into city planning and management is clear. As observed during the visit to Sylhet and Dhaka, the country is well on its way to achieving its goal of smart, sustainable, and efficient cities, embodying the spirit of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in its urban development efforts.
