Research

Exploring the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) regarding Dengue among University Students: A Cross-sectional Study

It explored the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to dengue fever among 388 university students in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Using a structured questionnaire and statistical analysis (including linear and logistic regression), we examined how gender, location, education, and previous exposure to dengue influenced student awareness and behaviors. Key findings revealed that female students possessed higher knowledge, while male students exhibited more proactive attitudes and practices. Students from Dhaka North City Corporation and science disciplines also had better awareness levels. These insights underscore the necessity for targeted educational campaigns and behavioral interventions to enhance dengue prevention among young adults in urban settings.

 

Note: This is a potential journal article and is currently under review.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices regarding Antibiotic Use among University Students in Bangladesh​

In this study, we evaluated the knowledge, awareness, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotics among Bangladeshi university students using a structured questionnaire. We conducted a cross-sectional survey across multiple universities and analyzed the responses using descriptive statistics and inferential methods. The goal was to identify knowledge gaps, misconceptions, and behavioral trends in antibiotic usage. We also examined demographic influences on KAP scores through statistical tests and regression analysis. The findings aimed to inform policy and educational strategies to promote responsible antibiotic use and combat antimicrobial resistance.

These studies are conducted under the guidance of Professor Dr Shammi Akter Satu (Professor, Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Jahangirnagar University)

MURP Thesis

As part of my Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning at Jahangirnagar University, I conducted a research study focusing on how non-spatial factors affect the performance of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) in Dhaka City. While most TOD studies emphasize land use and infrastructure, my work examined less visible but critical elements such as user-friendliness, travel behavior, accessibility, and environmental quality around MRT Line 6 stations. Using data from 393 respondents and applying statistical tools like PCA and regression analysis, I identified key challenges such as high travel costs, poor air quality, and inequitable housing access. The findings underscore the importance of people-centric planning in enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of TOD in Dhaka.

Impact of Indicators on TOD Performance and Their Clusters
Chronological Impact of Indicators on TOD Performance

Heat Vulnerability and Urbanization: A Growing Risk and Model Based Study in DNCC and DSCC

This study is conducted under the guidance of Professor Mohammad Mizanur Rahman (Associate Professor, Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Jahangirnagar University), funded by the University Grants Commission, Bangladesh. In this study, we investigated the relationship between urbanization levels and population heat vulnerability within the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). We conducted a systematic literature review and developed a conceptual framework linking socio-demographic, environmental, and infrastructural factors to heat vulnerability. Using spatial data and secondary sources, we assessed urbanization intensity and mapped vulnerability using GIS techniques. We then applied statistical methods to model the association between urbanization and vulnerability levels.

LVI Before and After Full Implementation of the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100.

Evaluating Flood Vulnerability and LVI Responses in Teota, Manikganj: Lessons from the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100

Under the guidance of Professor Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, I, with his team, assessed the livelihood vulnerability of the Teota Union community in Manikganj, Bangladesh, to floods using the Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI) and IPCC-LVI approaches. It found that the community is highly vulnerable, particularly in physical and human livelihood capitals. The research also evaluated the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 to determine its effectiveness in addressing these vulnerabilities. While BDP addresses many issues—especially in human, natural, and physical capitals—it lacks adequate focus on social and financial vulnerabilities. The study concludes that, although BDP has strong potential, further improvement and complementary plans are necessary for enhancing flood resilience.

 

Note: This is a potential journal article and is currently under review.

Changes in Regeneration Capacity of the Sundarbans Mangrove Forest

Professor Mohammad Mizanur Rahman supervised this study. The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, is facing a critical decline in its natural regeneration capacity due to frequent tropical cyclones and rising salinity levels caused by climate change. A detailed analysis of Landsat satellite images from 1990 to 2022 reveals that while the forest could recover within 31 months in the 1990s, recent decades show a sharp decline in this ability, with no complete regeneration even after 72 months. Over this period, the forest has lost 43.68 km² of vegetation, while bare land has increased by 53.47 km². These changes threaten the vital ecosystem services the Sundarbans provide, including cyclone protection, biodiversity support, and livelihoods for millions. Urgent conservation efforts are needed to restore the forest’s resilience and protect its future.

 

Note: This is a potential journal article and is currently under review.

Changes in waterbody, bare area and vegetation following major cyclones

How community action plan (CAP) is enhancing city’s resilience

As a Research Assistant, Urban Development Programme, BRAC, I contributed to evaluating the performance of BRAC’s Community Action Plan, implemented since 2018. In September 2023, BRAC contractually engaged our team to conduct Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) within the community and develop a comprehensive report. The study area, Arapara, is situated in Savar, a suburban area of Dhaka, and comprises over 200 families.

Conducting KII of the local representative

BURP Thesis

Here, I investigated the underlying causes of delays in the implementation of the MRT Line-6 project, the first metro rail initiative in Dhaka. I adopted a qualitative research approach and conducted key informant interviews with planners, government officials, and stakeholders involved in the project. Using content analysis with In Vivo and Pattern Coding, I identified major delay factors such as design changes, institutional inefficiencies, land acquisition problems, and lack of skilled manpower. The study also highlighted the complex interactions between multiple institutions, regulatory barriers, and political influences that hindered timely project execution. By applying Institutional Theory, I provided insights into how these systemic issues can be addressed in future mega-infrastructure projects.

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Abhijit Biswas