A group of students of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (Buet) developed the models showing ways to reduce energy consumption and impacts on environment and ensure high degree of social interaction.

The models of eco-city were designed to ensure a strong local economy, create commuter-friendly transport system, protect the pristine environment as far as possible and ensure better accommodation for city dwellers, said the organisers.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Buet Vice-Chancellor Prof AMM Shafiullah said whenever any structure is built, nature is somehow disturbed. But ecology-friendly urbanisation principles were applied to these models to ensure sustainable urbanisation with least interruption in nature, he added.

Prof Dr Sarwar Jahan, dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning, said the cities would soon become unliveable unless the environmental issues are taken into account during construction work in a country where urbanisation rate is around 23 percent.

Dr Roxana Hafiz, head of Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Buet, said that the models of eco-city were developed with a view to bringing back greenery and open spaces.

The exhibition, jointly organised by Department of Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) of Buet and Work for Better Bangladesh (WBB) Trust, will remain open from 10:00am to 6:00pm daily.