Dhaka, Jan. 19 -- Urban experts have urged political parties to clearly outline their plans for forming a strong and effective city government in their manifestos for the upcoming national elections, saying it is crucial for ensuring sustainable solutions to the growing urban crisis.

They said one of the main reasons behind the deteriorating condition of cities, including Dhaka, is poor coordination among service-providing agencies and the limited authority of city mayors.

The observations were made at a dialogue titled "Manifesto to Save Dhaka", organised by the Urban Development Journalists Forum Bangladesh and Gulshan Society at a city hotel on Monday.

Gulshan Society President Barrister Sadat Omar presented the keynote paper at the...