Approach

Rajshahi town is the northwest divisional and district headquarters of Bangladesh and a major urban center.

Over the last 20 years, population figure has trebled reaching approximate 250,000 of which 2/3 in the municipality and 1/3 in the urban fringes. Different studies estimate the population by the year 2000 as large as 3 /4 -1 million. It is certainly difficult to make a precise forecast so far into the future. Change in living standard effects future demand of housing and floor area as well as densities. Likewise the change in household size is of importance. Economic growth, industrialization and the development of urban activities in general affects the demand of urban land and infrastructure. The changes of these and other pertinent factors are quite uncertain in a longer perspective. The plans therefore take into account different future scenarios.

A master plan can be a valuable tool for the development of an urban area. It gives a framework for the activities and good life of the town. The plan can do by coordinating the land use, infrastructure and other necessary facilities in a physical form.

The plan has its foundation in the existing structure but will adapt this to a future demand, calls general goals for development. Of great importance is the implementation, which normally illustrates in phases over time. Every long-term plan needs revision as time goes. Only a plan kept alive is an instrument for creating a better urban future.

Further planning

The implementation of the proposed plan basically divides in two phases. Phase one being the period of the Third Five Year Plan 1985-1990. The second phase covers the perspective period 1990-2000. Need certain sectoral studies and local area plans before major implementations can take place.

According to the expected growth rate, local planning priorities presents in Map 27. The plans will work out a close cooperation between RTDA and authorities concerned.

The first phase housing areas locates as the already allotted residential area north of the railway and the larger areas to the north of this. Adjacent to this a housing area for the railway employees proposes. Other first phase areas are located within the present urban land to the south and southeast and to the west. The plans especially include the integration of existing settlements. It is advisable to work out the plans in cooperation with the local inhabitants thereby making the plans theirs. It would be reasonable if land for local roads gives free of cost by the landowners in return for the access obtained.

Two new industrial areas are proposed to the east and west respectively. Plans for these and the new CBD should be drawn up as soon as possible.