ABOUT DHAKA CITY

 Dhaka is the capital and largest city of Bangladesh, serving as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. It is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with a population exceeding 20 million in the metropolitan area. Known for its vibrant energy and bustling activity, Dhaka plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, especially in the textile and garment industries.

Location: Situated on the banks of the Buriganga River in central Bangladesh.

Population:  Over 20 million (including the greater metropolitan area).

Language:  Bengali is the main language spoken, though English is also commonly used in business and education.

Climate: Tropical with a monsoon season. The city experiences hot and humid summers, mild winters, and heavy rainfall during the monsoon (June to October).

 Economy:

Dhaka is the economic heart of Bangladesh, contributing significantly to the country's GDP. The city is home to many of the country’s major industries, especially:

Textile and Garment Industry: Dhaka is one of the world’s largest textile manufacturing hubs, exporting products to international markets.

Trade and Commerce:  The city has numerous markets, both traditional and modern, and is a key center for trade and commerce in the region.

Banking and Finance:  Major national and international banks have headquarters or branches in Dhaka, making it a financial hub.

Culture:

Dhaka is a cultural melting pot, showcasing a mix of modernity and tradition. It has a rich history, with influences from the Mughal era, British colonial rule, and modern-day Bangladesh.

Festivals:  Important festivals celebrated in Dhaka include  Pohela Boishakh  (Bengali New Year), Eid-ul-Fitr , Durga Puja , and various cultural events throughout the year.

Cuisine:  The food culture in Dhaka is diverse, with popular dishes like biryani, hilsa fish, pithas (traditional cakes), and street foods such as fuchka (pani puri) and chotpoti.

Historical Sites: Dhaka is home to several significant landmarks, including:

Lalbagh Fort: A Mughal-era fortress.

Ahsan Manzil:  A historic palace and museum.

Shaheed Minar: A monument dedicated to the Language Movement martyrs.

 Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban (National Parliament House):  An iconic modernist building designed by Louis Kahn.

  

Transportation:

Dhaka is notorious for its traffic congestion. Despite this, various modes of transportation are available:

Rickshaws: A common and colorful mode of transport, with Dhaka known as the “Rickshaw Capital of the World.”

Buses: Public buses serve most areas of the city.

CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) Auto-Rickshaws:  Motorized three-wheelers widely used for shorter distances.

Dhaka Metro: The first metro rail system, launched recently, aims to alleviate some of the traffic issues.

Waterways: Ferries and boats ply the Buriganga River, connecting Dhaka to other parts of Bangladesh.

Challenges:

Dhaka faces several urban challenges, including:

Overpopulation:  Rapid urbanization has led to overcrowding, straining the city’s infrastructure.

Traffic Congestion:  One of the most significant issues, causing long commute times.

Pollution: Air and water pollution are major concerns due to industrial waste and traffic emissions.

Flooding: Due to its low-lying geography, Dhaka is prone to flooding, particularly during the monsoon season.

Despite these challenges, Dhaka remains a dynamic and fast-growing city, central to Bangladesh's development and future.