Politics

National Urban Policy 2025 and Dhaka Structure Plan Updates Guide Housing and Infrastructure Decisions

Dhaka residents may encounter changes to housing construction rules and drainage upgrades as city authorities advance the National Urban Policy 2025 and related plans.

By Dhaka Policy Desk · Published July 25, 2026

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The Government of Bangladesh approved the National Urban Policy 2025 on January 1, 2026. The policy sets priorities for sustainable planning, affordable housing, and climate-resilient urban development in Dhaka. Rajdhani Unnyan Kartripakkha is finalizing the Dhaka Structure Plan 2016-2035, which recommends ending plot-based housing to protect wetlands and adding three ring roads.

Current Planning Measures and Local Areas

Recent amendments to the Detailed Area Plan increase the Floor Area Ratio by 20-80 percent in Khilkhet and Mirpur. These changes aim to support high-rise construction. Dhaka North City Corporation has proposed updates to the 2016 Stormwater Drainage Master Plan and seeks Asian Development Bank funding of Tk81.29 crore for an Integrated and Resilient Urban Infrastructure project. The government is also drafting a strategic plan costing Tk39.43 crore for surrounding districts.

These steps affect how land is used and how buildings are approved in specific neighbourhoods. Residents in Khilkhet and Mirpur could see taller structures permitted under the revised Floor Area Ratio rules. The Dhaka Structure Plan recommendations target wetland protection, which may limit certain housing projects on the city outskirts.

Next Steps for Implementation

The strategic plan for surrounding districts is scheduled to run from January 2026 to December 2028. It is intended to align growth with MRT, BRT, and subway networks. Dhaka North City Corporation continues work on the drainage master plan update alongside the funding request. Rajuk is completing the Dhaka Structure Plan 2016-2035 for final review.

These measures focus on coordination between national policy and local infrastructure projects. Residents may notice shifts in construction approvals and project timelines as the plans move forward in 2026.

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