Analysis of urban environmental quality using satisfaction index: An empirical assessment of Jashore Pourashava (Municipality), Bangladesh

Abstract

Urbanization in Bangladesh presents numerous challenges, including regional inequality, centralized development, poverty, social stratification, traffic congestion, housing shortages, slum proliferation, and environmental degradation. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of urban environmental quality in Jashore Pourashava (Municipality), Bangladesh, utilizing a satisfaction index to evaluate key socio-economic and environmental dimensions. The findings highlight significant transportation challenges, health issues, and infrastructural inadequacies that collectively diminish residents' quality of life. Health concerns, particularly respiratory illnesses, are exacerbated by environmental factors such as mosquito-borne diseases and water pollution. While most households benefit from government-supplied water and permanent sanitation facilities, critical gaps in education, waste management, and sanitation services lead to widespread dissatisfaction. Additionally, environmental degradation, driven by water contamination and rapid urbanization, contributes to the declining ecological balance. The study underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts by the government, non-governmental organizations, and local communities to address these socio-economic and environmental deficiencies, with the goal of fostering sustainable urban development and improving living conditions for residents.