ABSTRACT
Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. More than 140 million people live in an area of 147,540 square kilometres and the population is increasing at a rate of around 1.6% annually. Approximately 44% of the population lives below the poverty line. The urban population is around 25%. The capital city Dhaka, is a mega city with a population of 14 million that is growing at an annual rate of around 5%. While urban dwellers are catalysing economic growth, rapid urbanisation also places a considerable burden on urban areas, both in terms of additional stress on inadequate urban infrastructures and services and exacerbation of already poor environmental conditions. In Bangladesh, government agencies, autonomous bodies, local government institutions such as specialised water utilities, municipalities and city corporations are responsible for providing water supply and sanitation services. The Local Government Division (LGD) under the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (LGRD&C) is the apex body that oversees and controls the activities of these organizations.
