Department of Urban and Regional Planning
Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET)

News and Events

Professor Dr. Afsana Haque Appointed as the New Director of Center for Regional Development Studies (CRDS), BUET
Nov 06, 2024
The Department of Urban and Regional Planning at BUET is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Dr. Afsana Haque as the new Director of the Center for Regional Development Studies (CRDS) at BUET. We congratulate Dr. Afsana Haque on her new appointment and hope that she will advance the Center’s contributions to regional development research and policy with her expertise and leadership. We also express our profound gratitude to Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, the outgoing Director, for her dedicated service and contribution to strengthening CRDS’s research endeavors. We look forward to CRDS's continued growth and success under Dr. Afsana Haque’s guidance.
Freshers' Reception Program of URP'23 Batch
Oct 30, 2024
On behalf of the URP Students’ Association of BUET (USAB), students of Batch 2022 organized a reception program to welcome the freshers of Batch 2023 on October 30, 2024. Associate Director of Students’ Welfare (ADSW) Dr. Md. Asif Raihan, Associate professor, Accident Research Institute (ARI), BUET graced the event as the Chief Guest. The program was chaired by Professor Dr. Asif-uz-Zaman Khan, Head, Department of URP, BUET. The program concluded with a cultural presentation by the students. URP family wishes the best to all the students of Batch 2023.
Team "Urban Utopians" from BUET URP Batch 22 Wins National Championship at NASA International Space Apps Challenge 2024
Oct 23, 2024
Team Urban Utopians from BUET URP Batch 22 has won the title of National Champion at one of the largest hackathons in the world, the NASA International Space Apps Challenge 2024, Bangladesh Round. Out of over 450 competing teams, 9 were declared champions, with our team's innovative project, GeoAID, standing out for its impact and scientific approach. GeoAID addresses the critical issue of improper aid distribution in flood-affected areas, demonstrating how surrounding geographic features exacerbate this challenge. The project proposes a data-driven method for optimizing aid distribution and improving the delivery of resources to vulnerable communities. We congratulate Team Urban Utopians on this remarkable achievement and wish them continued success as they advance to the global rounds.
Congratulation to Prof. Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim, Vice Chancellor, Khulna University
Oct 20, 2024
Department of URP, BUET is proud that our alumnus, Prof. Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim, has been appointed as the Vice Chancellor of Khulna University. He obtained his MURP degree from this Department in 1985. We extend our warmest congratulations to Prof. Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim and wish him success in his new role.
Orientation Program for Postgraduate Students (April 2024 Term)
Oct 05, 2024
Department of URP, BUET, organized an orientation program for the newly admitted postgraduate students on 5th October 2024. On behalf of the department, Dr. Neelopal Adri, Associate Professor of the department, gave a brief presentation on the postgraduate curriculum and ordinance. Students also had the opportunity to meet the faculty members and support staff. The program ended with a question-answer session.
Orientation Program for Batch ‘23
Sep 12, 2024
On September 11, 2024, the Department of Urban and Regional Planning (URP) at BUET warmly welcomed the new Batch ’23 students with an engaging orientation program. Ms. Meher Afjun Faria presented a comprehensive overview of the department’s vision, mission, and academic curriculum, setting the stage for their journey ahead. The students were introduced to the esteemed faculty members and supporting staff, fostering a sense of community. The program also featured inspiring speeches from faculty, who shared their perspectives on the academic and professional opportunities for the students and advised on their physical and mental well-being. Some of the students shared their initial experience in the department and with BUET life.
Seminar on 3-D Visualization Techniques Presentation: Enhancing Spatial Planning
Sep 08, 2024
A seminar on 3-D visualization techniques was held in Room 206-207 of URP Bhaban On September 8, 2024. Mr. Md.Waziullah Apu, Graduate Research Assistant at Multimedia University, Malaysia, demonstrated an innovative tool for converting 2-D planning proposals into dynamic 3-D models, offering valuable insights into enhanced spatial planning methods. The seminar was widely participated by the teachers, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate students. The participants engaged in a lively discussion on practical applications of the tool after the presentation.
USAB Executive Committee 2024-25
Sep 07, 2024
The executive committee of the URP Students’ Association of BUET (USAB) for 2024-25 was announced in a general meeting held at 1:00 pm on September 3, 2024, in Room 206-207 of URP Bhaban. The students of all the undergraduate batches (L-4, T-2; L-3, T-2; L-2, T-2; L-1, T-2; and L-1, T-1) were present in the meeting. Mr. Abdullah Al Mujtabe handed over the responsibilities to the new committee on behalf of the immediate past executive committee. The members of the new committee are: President: Prof. Dr. Asif-uz-Zaman Khan, Head, Department of URP, BUET; Moderator: Dr. Dipita Hossain, Assistant Professor, Department of URP, BUET; Vice President: Mr. Hasnain Rahman (L-4, T-2); General Secretary: Ms. Mimosa Ahmed (L-4, T-2); Assistant General Secretary: Ms. Kanij Fatema (L-3, T-2); Event Secretary: Mr. Md. Ahnaf Nafi (L-4, T-2); Assistant Event Secretary: Mr. Mehedi Hasan (L-3, T-2); Finance Secretary: Ms. Tasfia Mozumder Tushi (L-4, T-2); Media Secretary: Ms. Nusrat Ferdous Afrina (L-4, T-2); Research and Publication Secretary: Ms. Anika Tasnim (L-4, T-2); Cultural Secretary: Ms. Ashrafy Alam Elma (L-4, T-2); Sports Secretary: Mr. Prashesh Sarker (L-4, T-2);
Completion of BURP Thesis Defense Session for Batch ‘18
Jun 24, 2024
We are delighted to announce the successful completion of the two-day BURP thesis defense sessions for Batch '18, held on June 23rd and 24th of June, 2024. This event showcased our students’ hard work, dedication, and innovative research, covering a wide range of urban and regional planning topics. The defense was organized into four panels, two convening each day. Each panel comprised faculty members and external experts from relevant sectors, providing valuable insights and feedback to our students. On the first day, Panel 1 focused on topics related to Transportation and MRT, with external members- Mr. Mohammad Rabiul Alam and Mr. Md. Nahmadul Hasan from DTCA, and Mr. Humayun Kabir from ADB. Panel 2 covered Environmental Planning, featuring external members- Mr. Gopal Krishna Debnath from LGED and Mr. Iftekhar Enayetullah from Waste Concern. The second-day sessions resumed with Panel 3, which addressed issues related to Land Use, Regional Planning, Transit-Oriented Development, Transfer of Development Rights, and Housing. The external members of this panel included Mr. S.M. Mehedi Ahsan from IUCN, Ms. Mahfuja Aktar from RAJUK, and Mr. Meer Ahemed Tariqul Omar from the Planning Commission. Panel 4 focused on topics related to Heat and Remote Sensing, with Mr. Md Zahid Hasan Siddiquee and Mr. M. Samiun Nabi from IWM, and Mr. Shahadat Hossain Shakil from USAID-Bangladesh serving as external members. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the students of Batch '18 on defending their thesis. We appreciate your hard work and perseverance. Special thanks to our external experts for their time and contributions, which will help the students immensely.
Guest Lecture on Systematic Review of Scholarly Resources
Jun 12, 2024
Dr. Tanvir Turin Chowdhury, Associate Professor, University of Calgary, Canada, delivered a lecture titled “Systematic Review of Scholarly Resources” on 12 June 2024. MURP students and faculty members were present in the lecture.
Congratulations to Dr. Raktim Mitra on His Professorship
Jun 11, 2024
Congratulations to our esteemed alumnus and former faculty member, Dr. Raktim Mitra, on being appointed Professor at the School of Urban and Regional Planning at Toronto Metropolitan University. Dr. Mitra’s pioneering work in sustainable and active transportation planning continues to inspire and drive positive change. We are proud of his achievements and look forward to his continued impact on the field. For more information on Dr. Mitra's research and contributions, visit his faculty page (https://www.torontomu.ca/.../people/faculty/raktim-mitra/)
Batch ‘22 successfully Completes Engineering Survey Fieldwork for July 2023 Term
Jun 10, 2024
The Batch ‘22 successfully completed the Engineering Survey Fieldwork (PLAN 164) for the July 2023 term, with a special focus on drone technology. Students attended lectures on Drone Survey techniques, followed by a field demonstration, data collection, and processing. This hands-on experience with state-of-the-art technology, alongside traditional methods like Reconnaissance Survey, Chain Survey, Plane Table Survey, Levelling & Contouring, and Traverse Surveys, is expected to equip the students with comprehensive engineering survey skills. The fieldwork ended on 10 June 2024. We look forward to seeing our students apply these skills in their future careers and innovate in the planning field.
Three BURP Students Receive the RISE Student Research Grant 2024
Apr 18, 2024
Three BURP students have recently received the RISE Student Research Grant 2024 offered by the Research and Innovation Centre for Science and Engineering (RISE) of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). Mr. Mahim Ahmed was awarded a grant for his undergraduate thesis titled “A Study of Fire Safety Measures in Restaurants of Dhaka”. Mr. Prashesh Sarker was granted for his undergraduate thesis titled “Geo-spatial Analysis of Illegal Waste Dumping Sites: Uncovering Factors and Understanding Public Perception Regarding Illegal Waste Dumping in Wards 15 and 69 of Dhaka South City Corporation Area”. Mr. Abid Abdullah was awarded for his undergraduate thesis titled “Predicting Crash Severity of Motorized Three-Wheelers in Dhaka: A Study Using Machine Learning Classifiers for the Time Period of 2010-2023”. These theses are being supervised by Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Professor Dr. Meher Nigar Neema, and Assistant Professor Ms. Sadia Afroj respectively.
Welcome to the new Head of the Department, Prof. Dr. Asif-uz-Zaman Khan
Mar 31, 2024
On 31 March 2024, Professor Dr. Asif-uz-Zaman Khan took responsibility as the new Head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning (DURP), BUET, succeeding Professor Dr. Afsana Haque. We express our gratitude to Professor Afsana Haque for her dedicated service and contributions as Head. We welcome Professor Asif-Uz-Zaman Khan and wish him all the best.
Guest Lecture on “How to Improve Transport in Dhaka City: Focus on Institutions”
Mar 03, 2024
As part of the course Plan 6245: Transport Economics, a public lecture on "How to improve Transport in Dhaka City: Focus on Institutions" was held in the department on 3 March 2024. International Transport Consultant and former faculty member of the department of URP, BUET (1978-80, 1982-85) Mr. Robert Gallagher delivered the lecture as the resource person. MURP and BURP students and department teachers were present in the lecture.
ITPI Secretary General visiting DURP, BUET
Mar 02, 2024
The Secretary General of Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI) Mr. V P Kulshrestha visited the Department of URP, BUET on 28 February 2024 and shared the urban planning and management experience in India. Students, alumni and current and former faculty members were present in the session.
Mr. Niaz Mahmud Zafri receives MIT presidential fellowship for PhD program
Feb 18, 2024
We are delighted to share that Mr. Niaz Mahmud Zafri, Assistant Professor, Dept. of URP, BUET, has been offered admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in MIT’s Department of Urban Studies and Planning for Fall 2024. He has been awarded with the highly prestigious “MIT Presidential Fellowship”. We congratulate Mr. Zafri and wish him continued success in his future endeavors. His achievements will serve as an inspiration to our students.
Pitha Utshob in the Department by USAB
Feb 17, 2024
On 17 February 2024, the URP Students’ Association of BUET (USAB) organized a Pitha Utshob in the department. The event was a delightful showcase of traditional delicacies. The effort of the students made the event truly special and memorable.
Picnic at 2024
Feb 15, 2024
On behalf of the USAB, URP Batch ’19 organized a picnic at Grand Bhawal Resort on February 15, 2024. All the participant students and faculty members enjoyed the outing along with its foods, games, and raffle draw. We hope to carry out this spirit of togetherness forward, embracing the warmth of our community.
Guest Lecture on Land Records and Ownership Titles in Bangladesh
Feb 10, 2024
As part of the course Plan 403: Legal Basis of Planning, a guest lecture on "Land Records and Ownership Titles in Bangladesh and the Role of Urban Planners" was held in the department on 10 February 2024. Planner Md. Rabiul Awal, Manager, Eastern Housing Ltd and an alumnus of the department, delivered the lecture as the resource person. Students of Level 4, Term 2, and course teachers were present in the lecture.
Guest Lecture on Preparation of Feasibility Study
Feb 10, 2024
As part of the course Plan 402: Project Planning Studio, a guest lecture on "Preparation of Feasibility Study" was held in the department on 10 February 2024. Planner Md. Mohirul Islam, CEO of Plan Plus Ltd, an alumnus of the department, delivered the lecture as the resource person. Students of Level 4, Term 2, and course teachers were present in the lecture.
Architect Prof. Dr. Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed Inspires Students on Heritage Conservation
Feb 06, 2024
For the sessional class project of Level- 3/Term- 1 on "Heritage Conservation and Heritage Site-based Tourism Planning in Dhaka Metropolitan Region", Prof. Dr. Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed, Dean, School of Environmental Science and Design and Head, Department of Architecture in the University of Asia Pacific (UAP) delivered a lecture on 6 February 2024. He shared his knowledge and expertise on heritage site conservation and tourism planning which left a profound impact, igniting enthusiasm among the students for their class project.
Farewell to Mr. Gul Box Bhuiyan
Jan 31, 2024
On 28 January 2024, we bid farewell to our esteemed staff, Senior Lab Attendant (Grade 1) Mr. Gul Box Bhuiyan, who has been an integral part of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at BUET since December 1985. His dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to his work have left an indelible mark on all of us. On behalf of all the members of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, BUET, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Mr. Gul Box Bhuiyan as he embarks on his new chapter of life.
DURP Alumni Appointed As Chief Town Planner of RAJUK
Jan 23, 2024
Department of URP, BUET is really proud that our alumnus Planner Md Ashraful Islam has been appointed as the Chief Town Planner (CTP) of RAJUK. Mr. Ashraf was the Project Director of recently completed Detailed Area Plan project of RAJUK. We are confident that he will further uphold the spirit of planning in his new role. We wish him success.
Workshop on Building Construction Permit Process and Density Zoning
Jan 20, 2024
As part of the BURP course Plan 403: Legal Basis of Planning, a workshop was held 𝐨𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐙𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐀𝐏 (𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐-𝟐𝟎𝟑𝟓) at the department on 20 January 2024. Planner Jannatul Mauya, Authorised Officer, RAJUK, and Planner Rubina Islam, Deputy Town Planner, RAJUK conducted the workshop. In the workshop, the students learned the experience of the RAJUK personnel while exercising the development control tools within the RAJUK area.
Freshers' Reception of URP 22 Batch
Dec 11, 2023
On behalf of the URP Students’ Association of BUET (USAB), students of Batch 2021 organized a reception program to welcome the students of Batch 2022, on December 11, 2023. Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Dean, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, BUET graced the event as the Chief Guest. The program was chaired by Professor Dr. Afsana Haque, Head, Department of URP, BUET. Best wishes to all the new members of the URP family.
Orientation Program for Batch ‘22
Dec 02, 2023
The Department of Urban and Regional Planning (DURP), BUET, organized an orientation program to welcome its new students of Batch ‘22 on December 2, 2023. On behalf of the department, Ms. Sadia Afroj gave a brief presentation on department's vision, mission, and academic curriculum. Students also had the opportunity to meet the faculty members and support staff, and gain insights into the dynamic field of urban and regional planning in this session. Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Dean, Faculty of Architecture and Planning addressed the students on this occasion.
USAB Executive Committee 2023-24
Dec 02, 2023
The executive committee of URP Students’ Association of BUET (USAB) for 2023-24 has been formed on December 2, 2023 at 1:00 pm through a general meeting. On behalf of the immediately passed executive committee, Ms. Sarah Tasnim handed over the responsibilities to the new committee. Find the member list for the new committee: Home > People > Students > USAB
Three BURP Students Receive the RISE Student Research Grant 2023
Nov 04, 2023
Three BURP students have received the RISE Student Research Grant 2023 offered by the Research and Innovation Centre for Science and Engineering (RISE) of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). The decision was shared on November 4, 2023. Mr. Abdullah Al Mujtabe is awarded a BDT 49,500 grant for his thesis titled “Development of Planning Guidelines for TOD Areas in Selected MRT Stations in Consultation with Stakeholders". Mr. Md Tausif Ali Bhuiyan is granted BDT 80,560. He is conducting research on “The Two-Wheeled Takeover: A Look at the Factors Driving the Rise of Motorcycles and Their Use Pattern in Dhaka". Ms. Kaniz Jahan is awarded a grant worth BDT 84,000 for her undergraduate thesis titled “Implementing Transfer of Development Rights (TDRs) Programs for Agricultural Land Conservation in Bangladesh: A Study on Key Issues and Stakeholder Perceptions”. These theses are respectively being supervised by Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Assistant Professor Ms. Sadia Afroj, and Professor Dr. Afsana Haque. This year, 15 BURP students submitted their proposal to RISE, among which three received research grants.
Foreign Delegates Visit Department of URP, BUET
Sep 26, 2023
Mr. Darren Crombie, President, Planning Institute of Australia (PIA), and Dr. Syafiee Shuid, National Council Member, Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP) visited the Department of URP, BUET on 26 September 2023 along with the President of Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP), Planner Mohammad Fazle Reza Sumon. During their visit, we exchanged our views and experiences regarding planning education and practice.
Visit of CAP’s Co-ordinator in the Department of URP
Sep 09, 2023
Ms. Victoria Hobday, co-ordinator of the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) and Senior Programme Manager (International) at The Prince's Foundation, London visited the Department of URP (DURP), BUET on 9 September 2023. She appreciated the recently introduced Outcome Based Education (OBE) curriculum at the Department. We discussed the prospect of collaboration of DURP, BUET with international organizations and educational institutes.
Introducing the OBE Curriculum of the BURP Program
Aug 26, 2023
We are delighted to introduce the recently approved Outcome Based Education (OBE) curriculum of the undergraduate program of the department. Since the beginning of its Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning (BURP) program in 1995, the Department is committed to offer state-of-the-art teaching and learning environment for its students. The latest curriculum focuses on sustainable development, justice, and equity. It intends to prepare the graduates to face the contemporary planning challenges in the age of information and fourth industrial revolution. The new curriculum has been developed through a number of consultations, rigorous meetings, and debates with the stakeholders. We express our profound appreciation to our esteemed alumni, employers, previous faculty members, dedicated students, and staff who played an instrumental role in shaping this initiative. For more details, please visit: PROGRAMS > UNDERGRADUATE > Curriculum
URP Students Won the Competition on SDGs
Jun 12, 2023
Ms. Mimosa Ahmed and Ms. Tasnim Tahrin from BURP ’19 became the Champion in a competition titled “EnvoFrame”. It was organized to stimulate the understanding and promotion of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through visual storytelling. Mr. Khalid-Bin-Shofiq and Ms. Fariha Aktar from BURP ’18 secured the 2nd runner-up position in the same competition. Both teams focused on multiple SDGs with special emphasis on SDG 11- Sustainable Cities and Communities. In the first round of the competition, 37 teams participated from different universities including Dhaka University, Bangladesh University of Professionals, Military Institute of Science and Technology, North South University, Independent University of Bangladesh, etc. The top five teams competed in the final round, held on 28 May 2023. The competition was organized by the Earth Club of North South University. (Photo credit: The Business Standard)
Day-Long Qualitative Methods Workshop for Mobilities & Transport Research Held
May 12, 2023
A day-long Qualitative Methods Workshop for Mobilities and Transport Research was held on 12 May 2023 at the Smart Classroom of the Department of URP (DURP), BUET. A total of 25 Ph.D. researchers, young academics, postgraduate students, and senior undergraduate students from different universities in Bangladesh attended the workshop. The participants were from the departments of URP, Geography, Sociology, Oceanography, Governance and Public Policy, Public Health, and Engineering. It was organized as part of the EQUIMOB: Inclusive Cities through Equitable Access to Urban Mobility project jointly conducted by the DURP, BUET; Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning (DHGSP), Utrecht University (UU), Netherlands; Manipal Academy for Higher Education, India and two other institutions. In the workshop, the first session on ‘Overview of research methods’ was conducted by Professor Dr. Ajay Bailey, Principal Investigator, EQUIMOB Project, and Professor, DHGSP, UU. The second session on ‘Photo voice, elicitation, and narratives’ was conducted by Ms. Seama Mowri, Ph.D. Candidate, DHGSP, UU. The third session on ‘Visual surveys’ was conducted by Dr. Selim Jahangir, Manipal Academy for Higher Education, India. Professor Dr. Bishwjit Mallick, DHGSP, UU conducted the forth session on ‘Collecting qualitative data using apps’. In the last session of the workshop participants did a hands-on exercise for ‘Putting methods into practice’ and finally shared their findings, which was followed by feedback from the resource persons.
Day-long Symposium on “Mobility for All: Inclusive Transport and Mobility for South Asian Cities” held
May 11, 2023
A day-long international symposium on “Mobility for All: Inclusive Transport and Mobility for South Asian Cities” was held on 11 May 2023 at the Smart Classroom of the Department of URP (DURP), BUET. A total of 16 papers from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and the UK were presented, online and in-person, in four sessions: Transport Planning and Behavior; Gender and Mobility; Transport Inequalities for Older Adults and PWD (Persons with Disabilities); and Intersectionalities between Transport and Social Inequality in India and Bangladesh [INTALInck Seminar Series]. More than forty participants from the departments of URP, Geography, Sociology, Oceanography, Governance and Public Policy, Public Health, Engineering, etc. attended the symposium. It was organized as part of the EQUIMOB: Inclusive Cities through Equitable Access to Urban Mobility project jointly conducted by the DURP, BUET; Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning (DHGSP), Utrecht University (UU), Netherlands; Manipal Academy for Higher Education, India and two other institutions. In the closing session, Professor Dr. Abdul Jabbar Khan, Pro Vice-Chancellor, BUET was the chief guest, and Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Dean, Faculty of Architecture and Planning was the guest of honor. Professor Dr. Ajay Bailey, Principal Investigator, EQUIMOB Project and Professor, DHGSP, UU; Dr. Moshiur Rahman, Additional Project Director (APD), MRT Line 5 Project, Dhaka Mass Transit Company Ltd (DMTCL); Engr. Rabiul Alam, Project Director (PD), Updating Revised Strategic Transport Planning (RSTP) Project, Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA), and Professor Dr. Afsana Haque, Head, DURP, BUET also spoke in the session. Professor Dr. Md. Musleh Uddin Hasan, Co-Principal Investigator, EQUIMOB Project, and Professor, DURP, BUET moderated the event.
Farewell Program for URP '17
May 08, 2023
The students of the Department of URP organized a farewell program for its graduating batch (URP '17) on 8 May 2023. The Chief Guest of the event was Planner Mohammad Fazle Reza Sumon, President, Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP). Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Dean, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, BUET, graced the occasion as the Special Guest. The session was chaired by Professor Dr. Afsana Haque, Head, Department of URP. Best wishes to all the students who will be graduating this term. We pray for their success.
Alumnus Dr. S. M. Labib delivers a lecture on “Machine Learning for Planners Using R"
Mar 20, 2023
We are delighted to share that Dr. S. M. Labib, Assistant Professor of (Spatial-) Data Science and (Environmental-) Health at Utrecht University and Visiting Researcher at the University of Cambridge, delivered a lecture titled "Machine Learning for Planner Using R" to our current undergraduate and postgraduate students on March 20th, 2023. He completed his undergraduate studies from our department in 2014.
Seminar on “Political Economy of Urban Green Spaces of Dhaka City”
Mar 20, 2023
Department of Urban and Regional Planning, BUET, shared the findings of research titled “Political Economy of Urban Green Spaces of Dhaka City” in a seminar on 20 March 2023 at Council Building, BUET. Professor Dr. Afsana Haque and Professor Dr. Asif-uz-Zaman Khan jointly presented the study findings on behalf of a five-member team. The study was carried out with a research grant awarded by the Community Partnerships to Strengthen Sustainable Development (COMPASS) program of the US Forest Service International Programs. The Chief Guest of the program was 𝐌𝐫. 𝐌𝐝. 𝐓𝐚𝐣𝐮𝐥 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐦, 𝐌𝐏, 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫, Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, GoB. It was chaired by Professor Dr. Satya Prasad Majumder, Honorable Vice-Chancellor, BUET. Dr. Muhammad N. Khan, Director, Economic Growth Office, USAID Bangladesh, and Professor Dr. Abdul Jabbar Khan, Pro-Vice Chancellor, BUET, addressed the audience as the Special and Honorable Guests, respectively. Mr. Justin Green, Asia Pacific Program Manager, USDA; Mr. Mohammad Nasir Uddin, Member (Planning), RAJUK; Mr. Abu Naser Khan, Chairman, Poribesh Bachao Andolon (POBA); Planner Fazle Reza Sumon, President, Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP); Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Dean, Faculty of Architecture and Planning; Professor Dr. Khandaker Shabbir Ahmed, President, Institute of Architects, Bangladesh (IAB); Planner Maqsud Hashem, Chief Town Planner, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC); Mr. A.S.M. Raihanul Ferdous, Chief Engineer, RAJUK; Mr. Hossain M. Nishad, Conservator of Forrest, Bangladesh Forrest Department; Professor Emeritus Dr. A.T.M. Nurul Amin, AIT, Thailand; Professor Dr. Mohammad Jasim Uddin, Department of Botany, Dhaka University; Professor Dr. Sharif Hasan Limon, Forestry and Wood Technology Discipline, Khulna University provided valuable comments and feedback in the seminar.
Celebration of Planning Week 2023: Spatial Planning for the Future
Mar 08, 2023
The URP Students' Association of BUET (USAB), along with the Department of Urban and Regional Planning (URP) at BUET, organized Planning Week 2023 from February 18 to 24 on the BUET campus. The Head of the Department, Dr. Afsana Haque, inaugurated the event with a rally on February 18, 2023. The subsequent events included a session on "Scientific Writing and Publishing" conducted by Mr. Niaz Mahmud Zafri, Assistant Professor of the same department. Planning Week also featured three inter-university competitions: quiz, photography, and case competitions. The main part of Planning Week was held on February 24, 2023, at the Council Building, BUET. Third- and fourth-year students presented their research works titled "A Study on Urban Amenities and Livelihood Situation in Rural Bangladesh" and "Catchment Area Delineation and Hierarchy Determination of Growth Centers: A Study on Habiganj District." The occasion was graced by 𝐌𝐫. 𝐌𝐝. 𝐓𝐚𝐣𝐮𝐥 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐦 𝐌𝐏, 𝐇𝐨𝐧'𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 of the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, Government of Bangladesh (GoB), as the Chief Guest. Mr. Kazi Wasi Uddin, Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, GoB, was present as the Special Guest. The session was chaired by Professor Dr. Abdul Jabbar Khan, Pro-Vice Chancellor of BUET. The event also included the unveiling of "Nagar Shoilee," the regular publication of USAB. During the closing session of Planning Week 2023, Professor Dr. Golam Rahman, Founding Faculty Member of URP, BUET, as well as a Founding EC member of the Bangladesh Institute of Planner (BIP), graced the event as the Chief Guest. Mr. Mohammad Aminul Quaium, Urban Planner of Waste Concern, also attended as the Special Guest. Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning, BUET, was present as the Honorable Guest. The guests distributed prizes among the winners of different competitions. The session was chaired by Professor Dr. Afsana Haque. The week-long programs ended with a cultural program in the evening.
Alumnus Dr. Ahsan Habib delivered a lecture on transportation and environemntal interactions
Feb 05, 2023
We are delighted to let you know that Dr. Ahsan Habib, Transportation Professor at Dalhousie University, delivered a lecture on "Development a Bottom-up, Activity-based Transport Network and Emissions Modelling System" in front of our current students on 5 February 2023. He completed his undergraduate studies from our department and also served the department as a faculty member.
Two theses receive RISE Student Research Grant 2022
Dec 08, 2022
Two groups of BURP students have received the RISE Student Research Grant 2022 offered by the Research and Innovation Centre for Science and Engineering (RISE) of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). The decision was shared on November 23, 2022. Ms. Nazifa Anzum and Ms. Iffat Baki Bushra have received a grant worth Tk. 94,200 for their undergraduate thesis titled “A Study on Land Cover Change Along National Highways of Bangladesh and its Relationship with Road Safety”. Mr. Md. Moshiur Rahman Khan and Mr. Md. Sabbir Hossain Muni are granted Tk. 74,868 for their undergraduate thesis on “Perceived Service Quality of Rail Freight Transport in Bangladesh”. The two groups are being supervised by Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam and Assistant Professor Mr. Niaz Mahmud Zafri.
National seminar on “Localizing SDGs for Better City Living”
Nov 19, 2022
Department of Urban and Regional Planning (URP), BUET and Nagorik Dhaka jointly organized a national seminar on “Localizing SDGs for Better City Living” on 16 November 2022 at Council Building, BUET. The Chief Guest of the program was Barrister Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, Mayor, Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). It was chaired by Professor Dr. Satya Prasad Majumder, Vice-Chancellor, BUET. Professor Dr. Abdul Jabbar Khan, Pro-Vice Chancellor, BUET and Major General Mizanur Rahman Khan (retd.), Advisor, Nagorik Dhaka addressed the audience as special guests. The keynote paper was presented by Professor Dr. Afsana Haque, Head, Department of URP, BUET. Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, Dean, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, and Professor Dr. Khandaker Shabbir Ahmed, Ex-Dean, Faculty of Architecture and Planning, BUET also graced the occasion.
National seminar on “Global and Local Commitments for Low Income Housing in Cities: Present Context and Way Forward”
Jun 11, 2022
Department of Urban and Regional Planning, BUET organized a national seminar on “𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐨𝐰 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬: 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐚𝐲 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝” on 11 June 2022 at Council Building, BUET. In this seminar, findings of three research work carried out in the department were presented and discussed among the relevant stakeholders. At first, Ms. Fairuz Noshin presented their work titled “Slums in Dhaka: Location, Area and Population”. Then, the research titled “Low Income Housing: Policy Guidelines and Existing Scenario” was presented by Ms. Nazifa Anzum and Ms. Sayeda Laizu Aktar. Finally, Ms. Moon Islam, Mr. Md. Sabbir Hossain Muni, and Mr. Md. Moshiur Rahman Khan discussed their work on “On-site Slum Upgradation of Dhaka Match Colony, Shyampur”. The Chief Guest of the program was 𝐌𝐫. 𝐌𝐝. 𝐀𝐭𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐥 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐦, 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐫, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC). It was chaired by Professor Dr. Satya Prasad Majumder, honorable Vice-Chancellor, BUET. Mr. Md. Mamun-Al-Rashid, Member (Secretary), Physical Infrastructure Division, Planning Commission and Professor Dr. Abdul Jabbar Khan, Pro-Vice Chancellor, BUET addressed the audience in the event as special guests. Dr. Khurshid Zabin Hossain Taufique, Director, Urban Development Directorate (UDD), Mr. Mir Manzurur Rahman, Chief Architect, Department of Architecture, Mr. Md. Ashraful Alam, Director General, Housing and Building Research Institute (HBRI), and Mr. Md. Anisur Rahman Miah, Chairman, RAJUK also graced the occasion. In addition, representatives from government that is, DSCC, DNCC, Physical Infrastructure Division of Planning Commission, Chittagong Development Authority (CDA) and non-government organizations including UNDP, Centre for Urban Studies (CUS) provided valuable comments and feedback in the seminar.
Workshop on Drone Survey
Jun 10, 2022
Department of Urban and Regional Planning, BUET arranged a daylong workshop on drone survey in collaboration with Hojung Solution (HS) and CEGIS to keep the students up-to-date with the latest surveying technology. Students were at first introduced to the theoretical background of the drone survey. Later, a practical demonstration was carried out at BUET field. Mr. Oh Seungcheol (Director, Civil Engineering Division, HS), Mr. Ban Daehee (Team Leader, UAV Division, HS), and Mr. Sukhee Andrew Cho (Vice President, US Representative Office, Global Relations, HS), Mr. Feroze Ahmed Kanak (Junior Specialist, Remote Sensing Division, CEGIS), and Mr. Premanondo Debnath (Research Associate, Remote Sensing Division, CEGIS) conducted the workshop successfully. The workshop, coordinated by the Lecturer of the department Mr. Md Waliullah, was arranged as part of the course, Plan 162: Surveying and Cartography Workshop. Respective course teachers Dr. Asif-Uz-Zaman Khan, Ms. Nawshin Tabassum, and Mr. Niaz Mahmud Zafri were present at the workshop. Hojung Solution (HS) expressed interest in further collaboration with the department.
Faculty members of URP congratulated new Dean Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam
Apr 15, 2022
Faculty members from the Department of Urban and Regional Planning met and congratulated Professor Dr. Ishrat Islam, the new Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning, BUET. Prof. Islam is a prolific researcher and an authority in wetland conservation, low-income housing, and risk-sensitive land use planning in Bangladesh. She is one of the co-pioneers of academic teaching on participatory planning in Bangladesh. As an adviser to many nationally important development projects, Prof. Islam has been playing a key role in upholding social and environmental justice in planning and development decision-making. She was the Head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning (URP), BUET from March 2015 to April 2017 and was appointed as Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning, BUET on 14 April 2022.
US Embassy visit URP to discuss about Fulbright scholarship
Dec 13, 2021
We are delighted to let you know that 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐔.𝐒. 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐲 visited our department today (13 December 2021 from 2.30 pm-3.30 pm). They discussed the opportunities for 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐔𝐒𝐀 (mainly Fulbright scholarships) with our undergraduate (final year) and graduate students. Members from U.S. Embassy, Dhaka: Sharlina Morgan, Director American Center; Raihana Sultana, Program Specialist, Education and Academic Exchanges; A. Q. M. Mushfiq Hassan, EducationUSA Student Adviser and Outreach Coordinator, addressed in the session. Professor Dr. Md. Musleh Uddin Hasan, Head, Department of URP, BUET graced the session. Ms. Nawshin Tabassum, Lecturer, URP, BUET coordinated the session.
Online training on "Geographic Information System (GIS) and AutoCAD“ for DNCC
Sep 11, 2021
Department of Urban and Regional Planning (URP), BUET offered a month-long, online training on 𝑮𝒆𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒑𝒉𝒊𝒄 𝑰𝒏𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑺𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒎 (𝑮𝑰𝑺) 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒐𝑪𝑨𝑫 from the 14 August 2021 for engineers, planners, and other officials of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC). It ended with an online certificate awarding ceremony held on 11 September 2021. Based on an online assessment thirty-six (36) successful participants were awarded certificates. 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐍𝐂𝐂, 𝐌𝐫. 𝐌𝐝. 𝐀𝐭𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐥 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐦 was present as the Chief Guest in the closing session, chaired by Professor Dr. Satya Prasad Majumder, honorable Vice-Chancellor, BUET. Mr. Md. Selim Reza, CEO, DNCC and Mr. Amirul Islam, Chief Engineer, DNCC also addressed in the event as guests of honor. Professor Dr. Md. Musleh Uddin Hasan, Head, Department of URP, BUET and Professor Dr. Afsana Haque, training coordinator from the department also graced the session. Trainers including Ms. Paromita Shome, Ms. Sadia Afroj, and Mr. Niaz Mahmud Zafri, were present in the occasion.
Alumnus Mr. Tanveer Islam has published a book, “Americar Golpo: Bless Your Heart”

We are happy to share that Mr. Tanveer Islam (URP Batch ’95) has published a book titled “Americar Golpo: Bless Your Heart”. This book covers several interesting topics, including the American urban and transportation system, the emergence of car-centric development, and other urban planning-related issues. This book is available at this year’s Ekushey Boi Mela.