Combating COVID-19 Pandemic: Role of local government institutions of developed and developing countries and assessing the activities of Ward 28 of Dhaka from this perspective

COVID-19 brought unprecedented challenges in the lives of people all over the world. Governments all across the globe acted actively to overcome the challenges and curb the disastrous effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges were manifold in densely populated urban areas. Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is one of the most densely populated cities of the world. Local government institutions of Dhaka faced severe challenges to address COVID-related health and socio-economic issues. However, unlike the developed nations, which are quite resourceful, the local government institutions (LGIs) of the developing countries had limited resources during the pandemic. This study aimed to comprehend the level of services of the LGIs worldwide in tackling the pandemic and the differences in their activities. Extensive literature reviews were conducted for a comparative analysis of the LGIs’ initiatives in 30 developed and developing countries. Furthermore, Ward 28 of Dhaka South City Corporation was studied as a case study to assess the activities of local government institutions in Dhaka in light of the roles played by global LGIs. This ward was purposefully chosen for its unique features, such as: being one of the world’s most densely populated neighbourhoods, having a diverse employment nature and multiple local organisations that had actively worked with the LGIs, and having a high vulnerability to COVID-19 spreading. The response actions of LGIs in this ward were investigated through several key informant interviews and focus group discussions. This study reveals that both developed and developing countries’ LGIs made effective provisions for food, finance and medical aid, enforced restrictions, disseminated up-to-date information, increased awareness, and managed infectious wastes carefully to contain the virus. However, developing countries had drawbacks in direct service provisions, such as monetary assistance, home delivery of food and medicine, and community helpline service. Some commendable measures of Ward 28 of DSCC include controlling vaccination rumours and discreetly aiding respectable families. Moreover, the active participation of Community-Based Organisations is quite laudable. Strong interrelationships among stakeholders, building financial, technical and institutional capabilities, technological advancement, education, training and awareness programs are identified as some of the prerequisites for efficient pandemic management. This study’s insights can be instrumental in addressing similar crises, particularly in Asia’s developing countries. • The COVID-response activities of local government institutions were reviewed and compared. • Food, financial and medical aid provision, enforcement of social-distancing, and awareness programs were some common activities of LGIs worldwide. • Active involvement of CBOs and local people can help lessen resource constraints of local authorities. • Some prerequisites for effective pandemic management at the local level were identified.