Dhaka’s Zia Udyan: A Green Oasis Amid Urban Growth

In Dhaka, Bangladesh, the bustling park of Zia Udyan serves as a crucial retreat for residents seeking a break from the city’s relentless pace. With the population projected to surpass Jakarta and become the world’s most populous city by 2050, this green space has become a vital gathering spot for thousands of Bangladeshis every Friday, their only day off for many.

Visitors flock to Zia Udyan for a variety of experiences. Stalls selling local delicacies, including amra fruit, jhal muri, and sugary tea, line the pathways. Young boys hawk pink candyfloss, while amateur photographers offer instant snaps for just 10 taka (approximately 7 cents). Adjacent to the park, boys swim in the shimmering waters of Crescent Lake, further enhancing the area’s appeal.

As Dhaka’s population swells, with nearly 37 million residents already, the city’s growth raises pressing questions regarding urban living conditions. According to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, cities like Dhaka, alongside India, Nigeria, and Pakistan, are expected to contribute over 500 million new urban residents between 2025 and 2050. This surge underscores the urgency of addressing infrastructure and quality of life issues in rapidly growing cities.

Though parks like Zia Udyan offer a rare escape, a 2020 academic paper revealed that Dhaka has only 54 green spaces, with many residents lacking access to a park within a 20-minute walk. Despite recent political unrest, marked by protests and arson attacks, the park remains a sanctuary for those seeking solace in nature.

On a recent Friday, newlyweds Samia and Hasib enjoyed ice cream together on a park bench. Both students of science and engineering, they find time to unwind by reading and playing badminton in their neighborhood. “It’s a beautiful city,” Samia remarked, reflecting the sentiments of many who cherish Dhaka’s charm amid its challenges.

Nearby, Nahid Shultana, a retired high school teacher, shared her experience of navigating life after a stroke. At 60, she follows doctor’s orders to walk daily, although she relies on a vehicle to reach the park. Shultana criticized the excessive use of mobile phones, claiming, “There are a lot of other things to do,” emphasizing the importance of enjoying life beyond screens.

Three local boys, Ariful, Bipul, and Shahidul, took a break from their work in the garment industry, where they face demanding schedules. Bipul, who enjoys playing the mobile game Free Fire, lamented the lack of time for outdoor sports. “People shouldn’t come to Dhaka; the countryside is more refreshing,” he stated, highlighting the struggles faced by many in the city.

Police trainee Md Aminul Islam and his cousin, goldsmith Md Shishir, explored the park, with Shishir visiting Dhaka for the first time. He noted that residents with time off often visit places like the zoo or botanical gardens. “When we got recruited, we took an oath that we are on 24/7,” he explained, reflecting the demanding nature of police work.

Rakib, an employee of Coca-Cola, regarded Fridays as family time in the park. Originally from Kushtia, located 210 km away, he has adapted to life in Dhaka over the past eight years. “I didn’t like it here at first, but I’m coping,” he shared, noting the different ways wealth influences leisure time in the city. “Inside the park, there is no discrimination… My kids play with other kids, whether poor or rich.”

As Dhaka continues to grow, the challenges of urbanization will shape the lives of its residents. Parks like Zia Udyan stand as a reminder of the importance of green spaces for community connection and personal well-being. The future of Bangladesh’s capital rests on striking a balance between development and the preservation of these essential oases.