Dhaka City

Dhaka is the capital and largest city of Bangladesh, serving as the country’s political, economic, and cultural center. It is located in the Dhaka District within the Dhaka Division and is one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Location: Central Bangladesh, along the Buriganga River
Area: Approximately 306 square kilometers (Dhaka North and South City Corporations combined)
Climate: Tropical wet and dry climate, with hot summers, monsoon rains, and mild winters
Urban Landscape: Mix of modern high-rises, historical sites, residential neighborhoods, and commercial districts

Population[edit | edit source]

Estimated Population (2025): Over 10 million in the city proper; over 20 million in the greater metropolitan area
Density: Extremely high, making it one of the most densely populated cities in the world
Demographics: Diverse population including ethnic Bengalis and minority communities; primarily Bengali-speaking
Religion: Predominantly Muslim, with Hindu, Christian, and other communities

History[edit | edit source]

Early History: Dhaka has a history dating back to the 7th century, gaining prominence as a Mughal provincial capital in the 17th century
Colonial Era: Came under British rule in the 18th century and grew as a commercial and administrative center
Post-Independence: Became the capital of Bangladesh in 1971 after the country’s independence

Economy[edit | edit source]

Dhaka is the economic hub of Bangladesh, contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP
Key Sectors:
- Garments and Textiles: Largest sector driving exports
- Finance and Banking: Headquarters of national and international banks
- Trade and Commerce: Wholesale markets, shopping districts, and corporate offices
- Information Technology: Growing IT and startup sector
Infrastructure Challenges: Traffic congestion, urban sprawl, and environmental concerns are ongoing issues

Administration[edit | edit source]

Dhaka City is divided into two City Corporations:
1. Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC)
2. Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC)
Each corporation is further subdivided into wards and zones for local governance
Mayor: Elected for each corporation, responsible for municipal administration, urban planning, and public services

Politics[edit | edit source]

Dhaka City is politically significant, hosting numerous parliamentary constituencies (Dhaka-1 to Dhaka-20)
Serves as the center of national government, including the Prime Minister’s Office, Parliament House, and ministries
Major political parties include the Awami League (AL) and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)

Education and Culture[edit | edit source]

Home to prominent universities, colleges, and research institutions such as the University of Dhaka
Cultural hub with museums, theaters, historical sites, and annual festivals
Centers of media, literature, and arts are concentrated in Dhaka, influencing national culture

Transportation[edit | edit source]

Air: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport serves domestic and international flights
Road: Extensive network of highways, streets, and expressways; heavy congestion is a major issue
Public Transit: Buses, metro rail, and rickshaws are common; ongoing expansion of Dhaka Metro Rail
Waterways: Buriganga River historically used for cargo and passenger transport

Significance[edit | edit source]

Dhaka is the heart of Bangladesh’s political, economic, and cultural life
Its dense population, commerce, and administrative functions make it strategically important nationally
Serves as the primary hub for education, healthcare, and infrastructure development