Although the urban poor contribute significantly to urban economy, their problems, specially the housing problem, is never considered seriously by any government, said the speakers at a workshop in the city on Sunday. They said the urban poor live in slums and are subject to frequent evictions. The workshop titled 'House for the urban poor: Past experiences and present needs' was organised by Onneyshan, an NGO, with the assistance of Manusher Jonno Foundation at Dhaka Reporters Unity. Moderated by MM Akash, professor of economics at Dhaka University, the workshop was attended by Prof Nazrul Islam, chairman of the University Grants Commission, as chief guest. Prof Nazrul said what the urban poor without homes need most is the land and the rest can be done by themselves. The slum dwellers are even willing to pay for the land, he added. Prof Nazrul said land is the primary problem which has held up their resettlement plan. He however appreciated the thought of the caretaker government to rehabilitate the evicted slum dwellers. Mostafa Quaiyum Khan, executive director of CUP, said the caretaker government undertook a plan to resettle the slum dwellers evicted during its eviction drives soon after the takeover of power. But later on they seemed to be very reluctant in allocating the land for the purpose, he added. Dr Atiur Rahman, chairman of Samunnay, stressed on strengthening the economic power of the slum dwellers so that their capacity to claim is increased. He also laid emphasis on the solidarity of the urban poor on issues concerning their interests. Prof Akash said as per law any khas land is the property of people, and as such it can be allocated for the rehabilitation of evicted slum dwellers if the government desires so. He said a struggle lies ahead and the urban poor will have to unite to achieve their rights. They must try to establish a government which will be poor- friendly and they must press the government to solve their housing problems, he added. Prof Akash called upon all to be sensitive to the plight of the urban poor and come forward to join in their struggle. He also called on sharing the poverty so that someday everybody could share the wealth. The workshop was also attended by Pranab Saha, city editor of the Prothom Alo and DCC Commissioner Mahmuda Begum.