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Making cities livable for all

Advancing community-led, resilient urban development

By 2030, half of Bangladesh’s population will live in urban areas, with up to 2,000 people moving to the capital each day. Rapid, unplanned urbanisation has resulted in informal settlements where millions lack access to basic services such as water, housing, healthcare and education.

BRAC launched its Urban Development Programme in 2016 to address these urgent challenges through a community-led, inclusive approach. We partner with local governments to promote planned, resilient and gender-responsive urban development.

So far, 1.4 million people living in urban poverty have experienced improved wellbeing. Over 823,000 people have accessed essential services, 306,000 gained access to safe water and sanitation, and 444,000 benefited from improved waste management. We have built more than 5,700 low-cost, climate-resilient houses and supported 50,000 ready-made garment factory workers with wellbeing services. By strengthening urban planning and climate action in 15 cities, we are making cities work better for everyone, especially the most marginalised.


Urban development at a glance

BRAC Bangladesh | Urban Development, people hopping on a crammed bus

1.4M

people with improved wellbeing amid urban poverty

Ultra-Poor Graduation participant in Bangladesh extreme poverty women

72%

of women in urban areas have gained control over their income

5,700

low-cost, climate-resilient homes built

Making cities work for everyone in Bangladesh

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Now, I dream of equal pay, shoulder-to-shoulder with my male mason colleagues. Though, I call it a dream but deep inside, I know it’s my right.”

Shayera, BRAC participant


BRAC Bangladesh | Urban Development, people walking on the street at dusk

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