Publication/ Projects

1. "Spatio-Temporal Response of SUHI to Mobility Pattern Shifts During COVID-19 Confinement: A Random Forest and GIS Study Across Eleven Major Cities in Bangladesh"

Submitted to: Heliyon (ISSN: 2405-8440)

The research investigates Urban Heat Islands (UHIs) in Bangladesh amid COVID-19, analyzing spatiotemporal variations from USGS remotely sensed Landsat-8 images. Results show varied UHI impacts across cities, crucial for informed urban planning towards "smart cities". 

Abstract:

The pressing issue of the Surface Urban Heat Island (SUHI) effect could be mitigated by managing anthropogenic heat production through mobility regulation. The COVID-19 lockdowns, which led to significant shifts in urban mobility, provided a unique opportunity to study SUHI responses to these changes. However, there is a research gap in understanding the impact of COVID-19-induced mobility changes on SUHI effects. This study aims to fill this gap by identifying spatial heat responses to mobility changes across eleven major cities in Bangladesh, employing COVID-19 statistics, Google mobility data, daily Land Surface Temperature (LST) readings & local weather data from NASA's MERRA-2 satellite, and USGS Landsat 8-9 imagery. SUHI maps were created by processing Landsat images to index SUHI values for each pixel. A paired-sample t-test revealed a mean LST decrease of 1.33°C in the cities during the lockdown, with 99% confidence, followed by a post-lockdown increase of 1.35°C. Rajshahi and Khulna experienced the largest LST drops at 2.92°C and 2.05°C, respectively, while Sylhet showed the smallest decrease at 0.667°C. Pearson correlation analysis suggests that natural weather parameters alone do not fully account for these temperature shifts, indicating the influence of changed mobility. A Random Forest model for Dhaka revealed that mobility in grocery & pharmacy, retail & recreation, workplace, and transit stations positively influenced LST, while residential stay had the opposite effect. Park mobility only increased LST with a substantial rise in visitors or extended stay durations. The study concludes with data-driven recommendations for adaptive urban planning.

2. “Analyzing Road Traffic Accidents and Identifying Hazardous Locations Using Geospatial Techniques: Insights from Three National Highways in Bangladesh” 

Submitted to: Safety Science (Online ISSN: 1879-1042)

Abstract:

Road traffic crashes in Bangladesh, particularly on national highways, pose a critical socio-economic challenge, underscoring the need to prioritize hazardous road sections for effective resource utilization. This study examines 1,304 crashes across three major highways (N1, N3, N5) from 2021 to 2023, integrating geospatial data to identify hazardous locations and analyze contributing factors. The crash severity index, derived from the number of fatalities, injuries, and property damage (PDO), was used as a dependent variable for a comprehensive understanding. Crash factors were evaluated through bivariate and multiple linear regression analyses, while proximity-based spatial clusters of significant crashes, identified through Getis-Ord Gi* hotspot analysis, complemented with Kernel Density Estimation (KDE), helped identify crash-prone road locations and rank them by net severity index. The analysis revealed 12 hazardous segments on N1, 3 on N3, and 7 on N5 as high-risk zones. Heavier vehicles, such as buses and trucks, were strongly associated with higher severity, while non-motorized vehicles showed insignificant impact. Notably, buses and trucks frequently collided with motorcycles and auto-rickshaws in rear-end or head-on crashes, emphasizing the need for lane separation for light vehicles. Pedestrians were found to be particularly vulnerable, with adverse weather, reduced visibility, and high daytime traffic contributing to increased crash severity. This study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions at identified locations, including technology-based warning systems to provide drivers with crash alerts near HRLs, improved highway design, footpaths and foot-over bridges, lane separation, and speed regulation for heavy vehicles near pedestrian zones and critical areas, to reduce road crashes and fatalities in Bangladesh.

1. Analyzing Traffic Impact For Residential To Commercial Land Use Conversion In Gulshan Avenue And Mohakhali-Badda Link Road

Date: March 2024

Overview:
This study investigates the traffic challenges stemming from the conversion of residential areas to commercial developments in Dhaka’s Gulshan neighborhood and along the Mohakhali-Badda Link Road. The analysis reveals that rapid urbanization and land use changes are intensifying traffic volumes, particularly during peak hours, while existing infrastructure struggles to accommodate the increased demand. Employing methods such as traffic surveys, simulations, and stakeholder analyses, the study highlights the significant impacts on congestion, trip patterns, and parking availability. To address these issues, it recommends upgrading road infrastructure, optimizing traffic signals, managing parking, and encouraging mixed-use development to reduce car dependency and support sustainable urban growth.

2. Traffic Impact Assessment for Medical Hospital

Date: March 2024

Overview:

This Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) evaluates the traffic and safety implications of a proposed medical hospital, with a focus on identifying existing traffic patterns and analyzing the anticipated impact of hospital-generated traffic in Labaid Specialized Hospital and Labaid Cardiac Hospital, located in Road-04, Dhanmondi, Dhaka-1205. Key findings indicate significant congestion during peak hours, particularly on Saturdays from 5 PM to 10 PM, alongside inadequate parking and drop-off facilities. The recorded hourly traffic volume is 348.9 PCU, with rickshaw trips in Dhaka averaging 1.5 to 4 kilometers.

To address these challenges, the study recommends introducing bus bays and designated pick-up/drop-off zones near entrances, implementing one-way traffic systems to reduce congestion, and increasing parking capacity while improving road service levels. Separate entrance and exit points are suggested as a solution to excessive congestion at the hospital.

The TIA methodology included manual and secondary data collection during peak hours, traffic volume counts, and analysis of existing and projected traffic conditions. Standards for pick-up and drop-off areas, based on guidelines from the American Hospital Association (2023), emphasize creating distinct zones to ensure smooth patient arrivals and departures, thereby reducing bottlenecks at key entry points.

3. Strategic Regional Plan For Achieving Npt 22 & 23 Of SDG 8 In Brahmanbaria, Cumilla, Chandpur, And Noakhali Districts Of Bangladesh

Date: March 2024

Overview:

This study, conducted as part of the Regional Planning Studio (PLAN 434) at BUET, outlines a strategic plan to achieve SDG targets 8.22 and 8.23 by empowering the workforce in Brahmanbaria, Cumilla, Chandpur, and Noakhali. It emphasizes enhancing the manufacturing and fisheries sectors, fostering SMEs, and addressing unemployment and skill gaps through targeted infrastructure development, training centers, and export-oriented initiatives. Key proposals include cold chain investments in Noakhali, advanced processing facilities in Cumilla, logistics networks in Brahmanbaria, and shrimp industry development in Chandpur. Challenges such as data limitations, skill gaps, and weak market linkages are highlighted, with recommendations focusing on sustainable practices, improved market access, and workforce training to drive regional economic growth.

4. A Study on GOs, NGOs, and CBO Initiatives For Rural Development In Bangladesh

Date: September 2023

Overview:
This study examines the roles and impacts of Governmental Organizations (GOs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) in rural development across Bangladesh, focusing on successful initiatives and their contributions to sustainable rural development. Key findings reveal that NGOs played a significant role in poverty alleviation, education, and healthcare, while collaborations between GOs and CBOs led to more sustainable projects. Challenges such as resource allocation, governance, and transparency were also identified. The methodologies included case studies of successful projects, surveys, and interviews with rural community stakeholders, and qualitative analysis of project outcomes. Based on these findings, recommendations include strengthening collaboration among GOs, NGOs, and CBOs, empowering local communities for sustainability, and improving transparency and accountability in rural development projects.

5. Proposed Block-Based Development along the Gulshan-Badda Link Road of DNCC Ward 21

Date: February 2023

Overview:
This project proposes a block-based development strategy along the Gulshan-Badda Link Road in DNCC Ward 21, aiming to support mixed-use urban growth through improved traffic management, zoning, and integration of public amenities to enhance livability and functionality. The development would improve connectivity and reduce congestion, with mixed-use blocks accommodating both residential and commercial needs. However, environmental concerns such as increased traffic and pollution must be addressed. The project employs urban planning and land use analysis, traffic flow modeling, and stakeholder consultations. Recommendations include creating pedestrian-friendly areas, promoting sustainable transportation, developing green spaces to mitigate environmental impact, and ensuring adequate infrastructure for utilities, waste management, and water supply.

6. The City of Avant Garde: A Landscape Planning Proposal for Gazipur Sadar Upazila

Date: September 2022

Overview:
This landscape planning proposal for Gazipur Sadar Upazila aims to create a sustainable urban environment by integrating green infrastructure, community spaces, and adaptive public facilities to address challenges such as urban sprawl, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability. Key findings highlight the importance of green corridors for improved air quality and connectivity, as well as mixed-use development to foster social interaction and economic activity. Sustainability features like rainwater harvesting and solar energy integration received positive feedback. The methodologies involved urban design and zoning analysis, environmental impact studies, sustainability assessments, and public consultations. Recommendations include prioritizing eco-friendly building practices and renewable energy sources, enhancing public spaces for recreation and social cohesion, and implementing sustainable water management systems throughout the development.

7. Site Planning of Dhanmondi Lake Integrated Park

Date: February 2022

Overview: 

This project focused on the site planning of Dhanmondi Lake Integrated Park, aiming to promote sustainable urban development through green spaces. The planning process emphasized environmental conservation, recreational needs, and aesthetic design to enhance the area’s role as a public amenity. Key findings included the successful integration of natural landscapes with recreational spaces, the incorporation of water features to enhance aesthetic appeal and sustainability, and public feedback underscoring the importance of green spaces for mental health and recreation. Methodologies included site analysis with environmental impact assessments, conceptual design, landscape planning, and stakeholder consultations. Recommendations included introducing ecological zones with native plant species, adding more seating, walkways, and interactive spaces, and ensuring water quality management to maintain the lake's health.

8. A Study On The Renovated Parks In Dhaka North City Corporation: Exploring The Perception Of The Park Users

Date: February 2022

Overview:

The main aim of the study is to assess the physical features of newly renovated parks, taking user perceptions into account, and to formulate recommendations for future park development and management. This study examines park users' perceptions of the renovated "Uttara Kalyan Samiti Park" in Uttara Sector 04 of Dhaka North City Corporation, focusing on functionality, accessibility, and overall satisfaction with park facilities. It explores how the park addresses the needs of the urban population and its contribution to public health and community engagement. Key findings reveal that users prefer parks with better accessibility, safety features, and green spaces, and that renovated parks have significantly enhanced public recreation in densely populated areas. The park was privately owned with a lease contract, and the overall management of the newly renovated park satisfied most users. However, issues such as overcrowding and lack of amenities were noted. The research employed surveys and interviews with park users, along with descriptive analysis of user satisfaction using Excel. Recommendations include improving maintenance and cleaning, adding more recreational facilities such as playgrounds and fitness zones, and enhancing public transport connections for easier park access.