Power Systems:

As Dhaka floods, one large problem faced by many of its residents is loss of power. As Team 8 delved further into the discussion of power one solution we found was using flood-adaptable power systems.  One large problem that currently affects many citizens of Dhaka is the lack of power grids, and the poor management of the ones that are currently being used. Another statistic, taken by the Dhaka  Times, states that only 62% of Dhaka’s population has access to power throughout the year. When Team 8 first began to discuss short term solutions to Dhaka’s power situation, we discussed constructing more power grids in order for a larger percentage of the population to have access to power. Another large problem our group saw was that Dhaka, even more specifically Islambag, currently has almost no protection from flooding, which can easily be a reason why power grids are destroyed during even the smallest flood. By placing power systems at higher ground and with more barriers to protect the gird during a flood, Islambag would not have to replace its energy infrastructure at the end of the flood season. A simple solution to protect the wires that transfer the electricity to other areas of Dhaka would be using PVC insulated wiring, often times used in America, to prevent the wires from water damage. Another solution could be the use of flexible, liquid-tight, metal conduits, which would prevent wires from extreme water damage in the case of a flood. This seemingly simple idea can be very beneficial in protecting mission-critical power systems.
                As for long-term solutions, one possible solution is the use of hydropower systems. Hydropower is the use of either falling water, or in Islambag’s case, fast running water that can be used to create energy. Since Islambag and its surrounding area are too close to sea level in order for a hydropower system to effectively work, the system could be placed up North, closer to the border of Bangladesh and India, where the higher altitude would allow hydropower to be effectively used. The power created in Bangladesh’s northern border can then be transported to areas all over Dhaka, especially those that are in desperate need of energy.

Project Overview:

For the C.I.R.T Competition, ACE Team 8 decided to design and reinvigorate the shoreline of Islambag, a city within the province of Dhaka, Bangladesh. We decided on this location because it is in desperate need of repair and rehabilitation because every flood season (spring-summer), Islambag is completely destroyed. Our goal is for Islambag to be well protected from floods while incorporating new technologies to advance a city that is deeply rooted in the past. We believe the design of Islambag’s shoreline will allow the area to see unprecedented growth, which will in turn allow the area to grow socioeconomically. Our intention in rebuilding the shoreline is not to replace the existing community, but allow the community to positively use the resources they are afforded, without worry of having to move away from the area.

Our hope was to build a shoreline that can protect the citizens of Islambag from having to constantly move away from their homes every flood citizen, and allow Islambag to return to full functionality soon after the water from a flood has receded.

Team 8 decided to include ideas from similar flood mitigation and preventive measures in areas such as Holland and England. We feel by revitalizing the shoreline of Dhaka, the area will be able to flourish and grow more than it ever has.

History of Dhaka:

Located along the banks of the Buriganga River, Dhaka, even when initially settled, was full of prosperity. After becoming the capitol of the Mughal Empire in 1610, Dhaka experienced rapid growth, allowing it to become an empire of trade, filling it with innovation and technological expansion. Despite the prosperity Dhaka saw, by 1666 a decline in Dhaka’s importance began, even though the then infamous British East India Company had set up a trading post along the shore of Dhaka. By 1704, the Mughals moved the capitol out of Dhaka. From the 18^th to the 19^th century, Dhaka remained under control of the British East India Company, mostly exporting tea, bamboo, sugar cane and spices. Between the19th and 201th centuries, Dhaka began to see social reform, allowing many to be exposed to a unique blend of religious reformers, scholars, writers and artists. By the early 20^th century, it was decided that the large Bengal region would be divided into East Bengal and West Bengal, Dhaka being the capital of East Bengal. This partition only lasted about 7 years, eventually being abolished because of negative sentiments. By the time the nation of Pakistan was formed, the people of what would become Bangladesh were tired of oppressive rule and harsh laws. Finally by 1971 the People’s Republic of Bangladesh was formed.

Today, Dhaka is a part of a democracy with an overwhelming population of 15 million people. Dhaka contains a vibrant culture, filled with many religions, as well as a strong educational program. Despite the abundance of people, culture, and transportation, Dhaka is faced annually with devastating floods. For many years, Dhaka has poured resources into mitigating the effects of flood damage, as well as preventing destructive flooding. Despite Dhaka’s efforts, not enough has been done to prevent flooding, in an ever-burgeoning society.