Everchanging Landscape of Dhaka :

Dhaka, once known solely as the capital of a poverty-stricken country, is now gradually transforming itself into a global
financial hub. Ambitious development projects, infrastructure rejuvenation, and modern amenities are propelling this
evolution. A few decades ago, Dhaka bore little resemblance to its current appearance. As the city continues to expand,
let’s delve into how the new Dhaka diverges from its past and how living here has undergone a remarkable
transformation.

Decentralization of Dhaka’s Governance:

For much of its history, Dhaka operated under a singular authority—the Dhaka City Corporation. However, in December
2011, the city corporation split into two distinct entities: Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City
Corporation (DSCC). This decentralization of power allowed each governing body to function independently, focusing
on their respective areas. As a result, barriers were alleviated, and the overall quality of life in Dhaka improved.

From a commercial perspective, areas like Gulshan and Banani have emerged as valuable business centers alongside the
traditional financial hub of Motijheel. The spread of wealth to these locations has significantly contributed to the city’s
development. Moreover, neighborhoods such as Uttara, Agargaon, and Purbachol are also on their way to becoming
financial hubs.
Both city corporations are now operating more efficiently in terms of municipal duties, sewage management, vector and
pest control, and waste management. DNCC has constructed a wastewater treatment plant in Banashree, enhancing
sewage water treatment in nearby areas. Additionally, the ongoing Aminbazar waste-to-electricity power plant is
currently under construction. Furthermore, several government-allotted markets are undergoing planned
reconstruction.

Transport & Infrastructure :

For those who haven’t witnessed the meteoric rise of Dhaka, the transformation in its transport facilities and
infrastructure is nothing short of astonishing. As recently as the turn of the millennium, public transportation options
were scarce, with rickshaws and two-stroke taxis dominating the streets of old Dhaka. Fast forward to today, and
Dhaka’s citizens have a plethora of choices: buses, taxis, and numerous ride-sharing services. Living in Dhaka has never
been more convenient.

The drive to modernize Dhaka’s infrastructure began with the Mohakhali Flyover in 2004, followed by the Khilgaon
flyover and street reforms across the city. In the past, the Kuril crossing was a notorious bottleneck, causing 1-2 hour
delays for travelers. However, the unveiling of the Kuril flyover has eliminated that traffic nightmare .The Hatirjheel
project in Dhaka has significantly improved commuting by allowing thousands of people to bypass traffic congestion.
Additionally, water buses in the Jheel area offer an alternative transport method for city dwellers, making life in this
vibrant city more efficient and accessible.
Dhaka now boasts various transport modes Mouchak Malibagh Flyover , Metrorail or Mass Rapid Transit ( MRT ) ,Bus
Rapid Transit (BRT) ,Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport , Dhaka Elevated Expressway , BRTC
Electric Buses , Clearance of footpaths and sidewalks has eased road traffic. After the opening of the Padma Bridge in
2022, usage of launches for transportation has decreased. Consequently, Sadarghat, which used to be a bustling port of
Dhaka, is now open for recreational purposes.Upcoming projects like the Underground Railway, Dhaka Outer Ring Road,
Dhaka Inner Ring Road, and the Multimodal Hub in Kamlapur, along with BRTC electric bus services, may open new
horizons for Dhaka’s public transportation sector.

Architecture :

From the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s to today, Bangladesh witnessed gradual infrastructure growth, and Dhaka followed suit.
Initially, the city featured mostly modest post-Soviet or brutalist-style building projects with large open fronts.

However, in recent years, Dhaka has embraced modern technology in sync with global trends. Building techniques and
methodologies have seen tremendous improvements over the past few decades. Now, all types of buildings adhere to
special and distinguished typologies based on user benefits. Notably, we observe diverse facade treatments and
high-tech interiors in these structures. World-renowned architecture firms are actively engaged in Bangladeshi
projects.
Visitors exploring commercial areas of Dhaka, such as Gulshan and Banani, might be surprised to find similarities with
cities like New York, Toronto, or Shanghai. Bangladeshi architects are pushing boundaries with innovative designs for
mosques, public spaces, shopping malls, and museums.

Housing Trend :

The evolution of housing trends in Dhaka closely mirrors the city’s development. Historically, residential expansion
primarily occurred in the northern areas. However, according to the World Bank Report on urban Dhaka, the focus has
now shifted eastward. In the 1980s and 1990s, only a handful of specialized residential areas existed, including
Dhanmondi, Mohammadpur, Gulshan, and Banani. Back then, the city’s population was significantly smaller, allowing
ample space for home construction. Architecturally, condos and spacious buildings dominated, while “apartment
buildings” were a rarity.

Fast forward to today, and the new Dhaka presents a different urban landscape. Rapid urban growth necessitates
vertical housing development. High-rise apartments now accommodate the burgeoning population. Additionally,
residential options have expanded. Areas like Bashundhara, Mirpur, Banasree, Baridhara, Uttara, and Agargaon have
emerged as popular destinations for renting or buying apartments.

During the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, most Dhaka dwellers lived in their own modest two or three-story buildings with
large open fronts. However, the majority are now shifting towards residential high-rises or apartment condos. The
number of skyscrapers continues to increase over the past two to three decades. In the past, joint families were
common, but now every family opts for single-family unit houses.

Recreational Facilities :

While opinions may differ on many matters, there’s unanimous agreement that Dhaka now offers an abundance of
recreational options. This diversification has kept pace with the city’s growth and evolving tastes. From parks to
amusement centers, there’s something for everyone. However, in old Dhaka, residents had limited choices. Only a
handful of parks, such as Dhanmondi Lake Park, Zia Uddan, and Ramna Park, existed. Sishu Park near Shahbag was the
sole amusement park. Dining out typically meant ‘Chinese’ restaurants—a stark contrast to today. During the 80s and
90s, a monthly visit to a local cinema hall and indulging in fuchka from a roadside cart was considered an ideal date.
Parents used to take their kids to parks during holidays, buying them balloons and ice cream. However, nowadays, most
kids and date partners wouldn’t consider it quality time.

At present Dhaka, every area boasts fantastic eateries. Banani, in particular, hosts extraordinary and trendy dining
spots. Music cafes provide live entertainment while patrons enjoy their meals. For family outings, Fantasy Kingdom,
Nandan Park, and Wonderland are excellent choices. While some may reminisce about simpler times, no one can deny
that life in Dhaka is now more vibrant. The rise of open concerts, university-based recreational activities, and the
rebuilding of many parks, such as Ramna Park, have contributed to Dhaka’s vibrancy. Additionally, the street food
culture has flourished, offering more variety in Dhaka’s restaurants. Experts now suggest that policymakers incorporate
more public places and parks throughout the city for the betterment of the environment and its residents.

Lifestyle :

The lifestyle of Dhaka's citizens is influenced by various factors, including changing trends, infrastructure development,
and product availability. The stark contrast between old and new Dhaka is evident. Today's modern city offers
unprecedented benefits, such as ride-sharing services that enhance mobility. A prime example of this transformation is
our shopping habits. Online commerce has surged, allowing us to order items from afar with ease. Gone are the days of
traditional store visits; now, gadgets, accessories, and groceries can be conveniently purchased online.

Over the years, traffic congestion in Dhaka has worsened, resulting in a daily loss of valuable working hours for most of
us. Whether you're a 6-year-old child attending a local kindergarten or an 80-year-old patient visiting doctors, facing
traffic jams has become an unavoidable reality.

Community life has undergone significant changes. In the past, close bonds existed between neighbors and relatives.
However, as the years pass, family ties are weakening, and many of us don't even know our next-door neighbors
anymore.
Since the 70s, consumer buying power has multiplied. Dhaka has now become the epicenter of the e-commerce boom in
Bangladesh. The Covid-19 pandemic has witnessed a surge in home-based e-commerce businesses, with younger
people in their 20s and 30s, as well as women, leading this sector.

As Dhaka continues to grow, further changes await—new areas, innovative policies, and technological advancements will
drive this evolution. The world watches as life in Dhaka city unfolds.Dhaka is a city that never stops changing. It is a
dynamic and vibrant metropolis that reflects the aspirations, challenges, and diversity of its people. From its ancient
roots to its modern transformations, Dhaka has always been a place of creativity, innovation, and resilience. As the city
faces the future, it will continue to evolve and adapt to the needs and demands of its inhabitants, while preserving its
rich cultural heritage and identity. Dhaka is not just a city, it is a living organism that grows and changes with time.