Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC)

The Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) is one of the two major municipal bodies governing Bangladesh’s capital city, Dhaka. Established in 2011 after the division of the Dhaka City Corporation, DNCC oversees the northern half of the metropolis, home to nearly 7 million residents. As a fast-growing urban hub, DNCC plays a vital role in managing infrastructure, waste disposal, public health, and urban planning. With Dhaka ranked among the world’s most densely populated cities, DNCC’s performance directly affects the livability of the capital.

Historical Background

• Pre-2011: Dhaka was managed by a single city authority known as Dhaka City Corporation (DCC).
• 2011 Reform: To improve governance, DCC was split into Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) and Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC).
• Current Jurisdiction: DNCC governs 54 wards, covering rapidly growing areas such as Gulshan, Uttara, Mirpur, and Banani.

Key Responsibilities of DNCC

1. Waste and Sanitation Management

• Collects and disposes of over 3,500 tons of waste daily.
• Introducing modern waste-to-energy projects and recycling initiatives.
• Door-to-door collection services and neighborhood clean-up programs.

2. Infrastructure and Transport

• Road repair, bridge maintenance, and drainage development.
• Ongoing projects to ease traffic congestion in busy neighborhoods like Mirpur and Mohakhali.
• Collaborations with national agencies on public transport systems.

3. Public Health and Safety

• Large-scale anti-mosquito campaigns to combat dengue, chikungunya, and malaria.
• Operating health centers and supporting immunization drives.
• Food safety monitoring through market inspections.

4. Urban Planning and Beautification

• Expansion of parks, playgrounds, and community spaces.
• Tree plantation drives and rooftop gardening initiatives.
• Revitalizing lakes and canals to restore Dhaka’s ecological balance.

5. Trade, Licensing, and Digital Services

• Issuing trade licenses for businesses and shops.
• Rolling out digital platforms for online tax payment and complaint management.
• Strengthening compliance measures for fair business practices.

Key Challenges Facing DNCC

Despite progress, DNCC faces challenges common to megacities:

• Population Pressure: Influx of rural migrants adds stress to housing and infrastructure.
• Traffic Gridlock: Unplanned roads and rising vehicle numbers choke mobility.
• Waste Crisis: Limited landfill capacity and lack of recycling infrastructure.
• Public Health Risks: Dengue outbreaks highlight gaps in vector control and urban sanitation.
• Climate Vulnerability: Heavy rains and flooding disrupt urban life annually.

Recent Initiatives by DNCC

• Smart City Projects: Expanding digital services, CCTV-based traffic monitoring, and e-governance.
• Green Dhaka Mission: Increasing urban greenery and eco-friendly construction.
• Public Transport Upgrades: Coordination with government for better bus networks and pedestrian safety.
• Dengue Awareness Campaigns: House-to-house checks, community engagement, and school programs.
• Digital Tax and Licensing: Online platforms for trade licenses and property tax payments.

The Road Ahead

To transform northern Dhaka into a more livable and sustainable zone, DNCC must focus on:

1. Integrated Urban Planning – Aligning with DSCC and national ministries for coordinated growth.
2. Technology-Driven Solutions – Using AI and data for traffic management, waste disposal, and urban mapping.
3. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Engaging private firms in housing, recycling, and renewable energy.
4. Climate-Resilient Development – Building drainage systems and flood-resistant infrastructure.
5. Greater Citizen Engagement – Strengthening participatory governance through mobile apps and community boards.

The Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) sits at the frontline of Bangladesh’s urban challenges and opportunities. From tackling waste and congestion to building a greener, smarter Dhaka, DNCC’s role is central to shaping the city’s future. With strong governance, innovation, and collaboration, DNCC has the potential to transform northern Dhaka into a model of sustainable urban living for South Asia.