690 climate-resilient low-cost housing units launched in four cities

The Government on Monday launched 690 climate-resilient, low-cost housing units for urban poor communities in Chandpur, Kushtia, Noakhali and Gopalganj under the Livelihoods Improvement of Urban Poor Communities Project (LIUPCP).

The Local Government Division (LGD) is implementing the project with support from the UK Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Officials inaugurated the units through a virtual event at the Bangladesh Secretariat, linked to simultaneous gatherings in the four cities.

LGD Secretary Md Rezaul Maksud Jahedi attended as chief guest. He stressed the urgency of safe and dignified housing for climate-vulnerable urban residents and noted that Bangladesh continues to face severe climate impacts despite contributing little to global emissions.

“The housing we are launching today offers vulnerable families real protection, real opportunity, and real hope,” he said.

Joint Secretary Md Samsul Islam, also the National Project Director of LIUPCP, said the project has strengthened women-led community organisations, improved urban resilience, and expanded livelihood opportunities across 19 cities.

He added that the project follows a transparent and inclusive process in selecting beneficiaries.

UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller said Bangladesh’s rapid urban transition requires proven, scalable models that combine climate-resilient infrastructure, social inclusion and economic development.

He noted that UNDP is supporting the Government in advancing a comprehensive and inclusive National Urban Policy. “This low-cost housing initiative marks a key milestone, providing safe, affordable and climate-resilient homes as a foundation for sustainable and inclusive urban development,” he said.

Martin Dawson, Deputy Development Director at the British High Commission, said the UK has worked with Bangladesh for more than a decade to improve the lives of urban poor communities and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to promoting climate-smart housing.

UNDP Assistant Resident Representative Anowarul Haq also addressed the event.

The programme ended with a call for stronger collaboration among government agencies, development partners and communities to expand urban housing solutions nationwide.