Flood, Migration, and Urban Slum Crisis of Sylhet, Bangladesh

Abstract

Sylhet, a growing tourist town in Bangladesh, is faced with extreme challenges of recurring flooding, climate migration, and expansion of informal settlements along the Surma River. This study explores how inadequate water management and unplanned urban growth exacerbate the expansion of slums in flood-prone zones. This study adopts a mixed-method approach, the use of GIS mapping, field observation, and stakeholder interview sessions, the paper establishes important correlations between displacement patterns and environmental risk. Studies find that residents in slums are struck by high infrastructure, health, and livelihood disruptions during floods. The research proposes a flood-resilient, participatory planning system that involves integrating slum dwellers as active custodians of the riverfront. The integrated approach offers lessons for other climate-affected cities that strive for just and equitable urbanization.