Engineers Call for Science-Based Urban Planning at APMCE 2026 Closing Session

Engineers and academics have stressed the need for science-based planning, protection of rivers and canals, and implementation of research recommendations to address the growing challenges of climate change, heavy rainfall, waterlogging, and rapid urbanisation. They said closer integration between engineering research and policymaking is essential for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The observations came at the closing ceremony of the Annual Paper Meet of Civil Engineering (APMCE 2026) and a seminar titled "Engineering a Sustainable Future: The Role of Civil Engineers in Achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals," organised by the Civil Engineering Division of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) at its headquarters in Dhaka on Sunday.

The two-day conference brought together researchers, academics and professional engineers from universities and institutions across the country to present papers on infrastructure development, transportation, water resources management, climate change, disaster management, environmental protection and sustainable development.

Speaking as the special guest, Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Iqbal said Bangladesh needs long-term, science-based and nature-friendly development strategies alongside emergency disaster responses. He emphasised protecting rivers, canals, wetlands and natural floodplains, while also highlighting the importance of regular dredging and scientific sediment management to reduce flooding and waterlogging.

Professor Dr Md Abu Tayeb, Head of the Civil Engineering Department at DUET, said APMCE is not merely a research conference but an important platform for connecting innovation and academic knowledge with national development. He urged that research recommendations be forwarded to relevant ministries and government agencies for practical policy implementation.

IEB Honorary General Secretary Professor Dr Engr Md Sabbir Mostafa Khan said recent heavy rainfall exposed weaknesses in urban drainage systems in both Dhaka and Chattogram. He attributed persistent waterlogging to poor inter-agency coordination, inadequate drainage infrastructure, encroachment on canals, wetland filling and blocked drains.

The keynote paper was presented by former DUET professor Dr S. M. Atikul Islam, who said sustainable development requires meeting present needs without compromising the opportunities of future generations. He called for greater investment in environmentally friendly infrastructure, renewable energy, energy-efficient buildings, public transport, electric vehicles and low-carbon technologies.

The session was chaired by IEB Civil Engineering Division Chairman Engr Muhammad Shafiqul Islam (Khokon). Vote of thanks was delivered by Vice-Chairman Engr Md Ainul Kabir, while Secretary Engr Nesar Uddin conducted the programme. Senior IEB leaders, engineers, researchers and representatives from different institutions also attended.

Speakers concluded that strengthening the connection between engineering research and national policymaking will be crucial for addressing climate challenges and achieving sustainable urban development in Bangladesh.
//DBITEC/SF/EH//