Empowering Citizens, Developing Comilla
Mohd Anisur Rahman Akhand, Founder & President, Comilla Agricultural & Technical College
The City Corporation Vision for Inclusive Growth and Responsive Urban Governance
Cities are more than buildings, roads, and infrastructure—they are the lifeblood of a nation’s progress, shaped by the aspirations and energy of their citizens. In the heart of Bangladesh, Comilla City Corporation (CuCC) stands as a model of how a local government can transform a city through a bold and inclusive vision.
Since becoming a city corporation in 2011, Comilla has grown rapidly in population, infrastructure, and importance. With this growth comes the challenge of managing urban development in a way that empowers citizens, ensures transparency, and delivers lasting change. The vision of CuCC centers on creating a city that is not only physically developed but also socially equitable, environmentally sustainable, and governed with integrity.
This article takes a closer look at how CuCC is redefining urban governance through citizen engagement, infrastructure advancement, and service innovation.
A Vision Rooted in People
At the heart of Comilla City Corporation’s vision is a firm belief that citizens are partners—not just beneficiaries—in the development process. This is reflected in multiple areas of policy and practice:
- Citizen Participation in Planning
CuCC has introduced ward-level consultation forums where residents can directly voice their needs—whether it’s a road that needs repair, a drain that needs cleaning, or a park that requires renovation. These forums ensure that development priorities reflect real community needs, not just bureaucratic decisions.
- Digital Public Services
The city corporation has launched an e-governance platform that allows citizens to:
- Apply for trade licenses
- Pay holding taxes
- Register births and deaths
- Lodge service complaints
This has drastically reduced paperwork, increased transparency, and made services more accessible—especially for youth, women, and working professionals.
Infrastructure for a Growing City
Urban development is incomplete without strong, future-ready infrastructure. CuCC has undertaken significant efforts in expanding and improving public facilities to keep pace with Comilla’s rapid urbanization.
Key Developments Include:
✅ Road Network Expansion
- Widening of arterial roads and construction of link roads
- Introduction of pedestrian pathways and traffic management systems
✅ Drainage and Waste Management
- Renovation of citywide drainage systems to prevent waterlogging
- A door-to-door waste collection system with separate bins for recyclable and organic waste
- Initiatives to raise awareness about 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
✅ Solar Street Lighting
- Over 60% of Comilla’s streets are now lit by energy-efficient, solar-powered LED lights, enhancing both safety and sustainability.
✅ Markets, Parks, and Civic Spaces
- Modernization of traditional markets with improved sanitation and fire safety
- Renovation of community parks, playgrounds, and open spaces for children and families
Inclusive Urban Services
A modern city is one where no one is left behind. CuCC is committed to inclusive development that uplifts the lives of all social groups.
Focus Areas:
🟩 Affordable Housing
- Planning low-cost housing in collaboration with national agencies and NGOs
- Upgrading informal settlements with water, electricity, and sanitation
🟩 Women-Friendly Urban Planning
- Public toilets and safe zones in key transport and commercial areas
- Health and entrepreneurship programs for urban women
🟩 Support for Marginalized Groups
- Mobile health camps for slum residents
- Literacy and vocational training for low-income youth
These programs aim to build a city that serves every resident equally, not just the privileged few.
Strengthening Governance Through Integrity
Development without accountability breeds distrust and inefficiency. CuCC places a strong emphasis on transparent governance and ethical leadership.
Measures Taken:
- Publication of annual development plans and budgets online
- Internal audits and performance tracking of departments
- Rotation of key officials to reduce long-term influence or corruption
- Launch of a grievance redress system accessible via mobile or in-person
These steps have enhanced public confidence and ensured better value for public resources.
Sustainability and Climate Resilience
As climate change intensifies, Comilla’s city planners are embedding resilience and sustainability into urban development.
Key Initiatives:
- Reforestation campaigns in public spaces and along major roads
- Canal restoration to manage urban flooding and improve biodiversity
- Promotion of rainwater harvesting in public buildings
- Environmental education campaigns in schools and communities
Comilla’s approach shows that even mid-sized cities can lead in green urbanism by combining civic participation with long-term environmental thinking.
Empowering Youth and Community Leaders
The future of Comilla lies in the hands of its youth. CuCC is investing in civic leadership through:
- Urban clubs and school eco-teams
- Internship opportunities for university students in urban planning, waste management, and community health
- Skill-building workshops on digital tools and public policy
Through these efforts, the next generation of Comilla residents is being prepared to take ownership of their city’s destiny.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite its achievements, Comilla City Corporation faces real challenges:
- Rapid urban migration is putting pressure on services
- Limited budget and resource gaps
- Traffic congestion in commercial hubs
- Need for more trained manpower in digital governance and planning
However, with strong leadership, active citizen engagement, and targeted investments, these challenges are being addressed step-by-step.
Comilla City Corporation’s vision of development is clear: empower citizens, invest in infrastructure, deliver services with integrity, and plan with empathy. By placing people at the center of its policies and embracing innovation in governance, CuCC is not just developing Comilla—it is transforming it into a model city of inclusive, responsive, and sustainable urban living.
As Bangladesh continues its journey toward middle-income status and beyond, the Comilla experience proves that good governance at the city level can drive national transformation—from the ground up.
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