Special Interview with Dr. Shahadat Hossain, Mayor, Chattagram City Corporation
- Urban Planning & Infrastructure
Asian State: What is your main goal for the development of Chattogram’s urban planning and infrastructure?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: The primary goal is to transform Chattogram into a modern, secure, and sustainable city. We aim to utilize each sector of the city effectively. Road and drainage development is prioritized to reduce traffic congestion and flooding. Citizens in new areas are provided with schools, hospitals, markets, and other essential services. Green spaces and tree plantations are being expanded. Digital technology is being integrated to make municipal services more accessible and efficient. Additionally, preserving the city’s heritage and ensuring sustainable citizen-friendly services is a key focus. Public participation and awareness programs are implemented to ensure that development aligns with residents’ needs and long-term sustainability.
Asian State: What are the biggest challenges in infrastructure development?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Major challenges include traffic congestion, drainage problems, rapid population growth, limited public land, and funding constraints. Old drainage systems and outdated infrastructure pose difficulties. Expansion is hindered by space shortages and unauthorized constructions. Lack of public awareness also affects project implementation. We address these challenges through digital mapping, expert urban planners, and monitoring systems to ensure effective and sustainable infrastructure development.
Asian State: What is your approach to traffic and transport management?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: The approach focuses on modernizing traffic management using technology, real-time monitoring, and signal control. Dedicated lanes, road expansions, and strengthened public transit are implemented. Awareness campaigns and mobile apps provide real-time traffic updates to citizens. Special routes ensure smooth passage for emergency vehicles, making traffic flow more efficient across all city sectors.
- Water, Environment & Climate
Asian State: What steps are being taken to ensure water conservation and clean water supply?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: We have installed tube wells, water filtration units, and other supply systems. Awareness campaigns encourage citizens to use water responsibly. Leakage monitoring and quick remedial actions are conducted to reduce wastage.
Asian State: What is the corporation’s plan for building an environmentally friendly city?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Tree planting, parks, and green spaces are being expanded. Pollution from industry and vehicles is managed using technology and regulations to promote sustainability.
Asian State: What initiatives have been taken to increase greenery and tree plantation?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Trees are planted along roads and open spaces. Parks are renovated in schools, colleges, and government offices. Weekly plantation drives involve active citizen participation.
Asian State: What is your approach to waste management and recycling?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Waste is segregated at the source, recycled where possible, and converted to biogas. Public awareness campaigns and educational programs help ensure effective waste management throughout the city.
- Health & Public Services
Asian State: What measures are being taken to improve citizen healthcare?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Health centers, free medical camps, hospital upgrades, and digital health records have been implemented to provide comprehensive healthcare services.
Asian State: What initiatives ensure the health of mothers and children?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Vaccination programs, maternal and child health check-ups, and health education in schools ensure better health outcomes.
Asian State: What improvements have been made in emergency health services and hospital management?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Emergency services, 24-hour hospital access, and expanded ambulance services have been introduced to improve response times and accessibility.
Asian State: How is the corporation prepared for pandemics or health emergencies?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Emergency preparedness includes vaccination drives, monitoring systems, and rapid response protocols for COVID-19 or other health crises.
- Education & Social Services
Asian State: What measures are being taken to improve education and school facilities?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Government schools are being renovated, books and learning materials provided, and digital education centers established to enhance educational access.
Asian State: What initiatives ensure vaccination and health awareness among children?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Regular vaccination camps, child health check-ups, and family awareness programs are implemented to safeguard child health.
Asian State: How are social services for the disabled and elderly ensured?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Rehabilitation programs, financial support, special service centers, and free healthcare are provided to assist vulnerable populations.
Asian State: What campaigns are undertaken to raise social awareness?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Awareness campaigns, social media engagement, school programs, and community workshops are organized to educate citizens on civic responsibilities.
- Tax & Citizen Services
Asian State: What measures have been taken to simplify tax collection?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Online payments, mobile apps, and digital record systems have been implemented to make tax collection simple and convenient.
Asian State: How effective has digitalization and online services been in citizen service delivery?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Trade licenses, citizen certificates, and water and tax bills are now digitally accessible, streamlining services.
Asian State: What systems are in place to quickly address citizen complaints and requests?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Hotlines, web portals, and mobile apps ensure rapid response to complaints and requests.
Asian State: What are the future plans for expanding and modernizing municipal services?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Future plans include smart city initiatives, IT centers, digital monitoring, and easier citizen access to services.
- Sustainable Development & Future Plans
Asian State: What is your vision for sustainable city development?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: The vision is to create a green, healthy, safe, and modern Chattogram that balances growth with environmental and social responsibility.
Asian State: Which sectors are prioritized for building a smart Chattogram?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Traffic, healthcare, education, water management, waste control, and digital citizen services are prioritized for smart city development.
Asian State: What new projects are planned to improve citizen services and city development?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Smart lighting, smart parking, digital traffic monitoring, and expansion of public education and healthcare facilities are upcoming projects.
Asian State: What measures are being taken to strengthen citizen engagement with the corporation?
Dr. Shahadat Hossain: Participatory meetings, digital feedback systems, awareness campaigns, and transparency initiatives ensure stronger engagement and better services.
