Desk Report:
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated that the government’s objective is not merely to provide a house for citizens, but to ensure housing that is safe, affordable, environmentally friendly, and equipped with basic amenities.
He said the government has taken all possible measures to ensure “universal housing and sustainable urbanization.” Access to habitable, affordable, eco-friendly, and safe housing—complete with basic services—is a fundamental right of citizens, and the government is firmly committed to upholding this right.
The Prime Minister made these remarks on Monday morning (October 5, 2026) while addressing the inaugural ceremony of World Habitat Day 2026 as the chief guest. The event was organized by the Ministry of Housing and Public Works and held at the Hall of Fame of the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in the capital.
The Prime Minister noted that the significance of World Habitat Day extends beyond the mere provision of a house. It is directly linked to access to safe water, uninterrupted electricity, improved sanitation, public transport, efficient road networks, education and healthcare, adequate employment opportunities, and, above all, a safe environment conducive to a dignified life.
Acknowledging the difficulty of ensuring safe and sustainable housing for all in a densely populated country like Bangladesh, he remarked that while such a task might be easier for the developed world, it presents a greater challenge for a populous nation like ours. However, to survive with dignity in a competitive world, we must move forward by tackling every challenge and keeping pace with global developments.
The theme for this year’s World Habitat Day is “Universal Housing, Sustainable Urbanization.”
The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and passages from other religious scriptures. Subsequently, a special documentary marking World Habitat Day 2026 was screened, and the Prime Minister unveiled a commemorative publication.
Before entering the venue, the Prime Minister planted a ‘Swarnachapa’ (Golden Magnolia) sapling on the premises of the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center. Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo, State Minister for Housing and Public Works Ahmed Sohel Manjur, and UN Resident Coordinator Carol Flore-Smerecniak spoke as special guests at the event.
Meanwhile, a three-day housing fair has been organized in the lobby of the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre to mark World Habitat Day. Various organizations from the housing and construction sectors are participating in the fair.
