•

Parks in the Urban Environment: An Analytical Study

with Reference to Urban Park. ••of Dhuka

'.,

Ry

Amina Chowdhury

A Thesis Submitted to the Department of Urban lind Regional Plnnning, SUET,

Dhaka in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of

Master of Urban and Regional Planning

'"

•

,•

DEPARTM.El\'T OF URBAN AND REGIONAL PLA)lNING

BANGLADESH UNIVERSITY OF ENGrNEERING At''O TECHNOLOGY

DHAKA,BANGLADESH

MlITCh~2004

,•..,

The thcsis titled "Parks in the Urban Environmcnt : An Analytical Study "itb

Refcrence to Urban Parb of Dhaka" submitted by Amina Chowdhury, Roll

Number: 9615011F, Scssion: 95-96-97 has becn accepted as satisfactory in partial

flillillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Urban and Rcgional

Planning on 29 March, 2004,

BOARD OF EXAMINERS

'L",~~tf;Dr. Roxana Hafiz, / rDepartment of Urban and Regional Planning,

BUET, Dhaka,

~Dr. Sanvar lahan,

Professor and Ilead,

Department ofUrhan and Regional Planning,

BI..IET,Dhaka,

Prof. A.S.M. M"hbllb-Un-Nabi,

Professor,

Department of Urban and Regional Planning,

tJUHT, Dh"ka

Li.Q b.~~r1da Nllufar, UA,oociate Profe,sor,

Dcpartment of Architecture,

BUET, Dhaka.

Chairman

(Supervisor)

Mcmber

(Ex-officio)

Memher

Member

(External)

_ ...•- -.CANDIDATE'S DECLARATION

1 hereby declare that this Thesis has becn prepared in partial fulfillment of the

requirements for the degree of Master of Urban and Regional. Planning at the

Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka and has not been

submitted anywhere else for any other degree.

Signature of the Candidate

!fJk",_dhJ'-Yl¥ __Amina Chowdhury

Master of Urban and Regional Planning

Roll Number: F 9615011

URP, BUET

Dlw"

•

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

All praise is due to Almighty Allah. All the progress, achiev<'ments and successthroughout my life are His blessings. First of <Ill,I convey my gratefulness to Himfor giving mc the ability to complete the Thesis.

I wish to express my profound gratitude and acknowlcdgemer,t to my supervisor,Dr. Roxana Hafiz, Associate Professor of the Department of Yrban and RegionalPlanning, BVET, Dhaka for her constant guidance and patience since the inc~ptionof the study. It would have been quite impossible to carry on this research and give ita final shape without her valuable advice, incisive criticism and sympatheticencouragement.

I wish to express my profound gratitude to Dr. Sarv.'arlaban, Professor and Head ofthe Department of Urban and Regional Planning, BUET, Dhaka for his academic,administrative and logistic supports.

I am also expressing my gratitude to my respected teachers, specially Dr, GolamRahman, Former Professor, Department of Urban and Regional Planning, BVET,D!ill"

I am highly grateful to my nephew Salman for helping me to usc different types ofcomputer software. I am expressing my heartfelt thanks to my llieccs Nasreen andNahecd for collecting data from the field. Special thanks tn my brother GaniChowdhury for his helpful service during physical observation survey andphotograph collection.

I also express thanks from the core of my heart to my classmate and friend, KamrunNahar for her all kind of co-operation, coding and entering data into SPSS program,suggestions and encouragement that helped me increasing menIal strength.. Specialthanks to Safi Val Administro.live OjJicer, Department of Geography andEnvironment and Asaduzzaman, Research Office, Dee for collecting differentinformation from Geography Department and Dhaka City Corporation.

I also express my special thanks and gratitude to all the staff of Urban and RegionalPlanning, BVET for their co-operation. Thanks to the staff of the LibTaryof BUET, 'Library of BBS, Library ofDU, and LibTaryof CUS.

I wo,-,ld like to extend my thanks to Anwara Apa, Ambia Apa, Urmi Apa, Rony,Elora, Adil vai for their enormous help and encouragement in the preparation of thethesis.

Finally, I would remain ever grateful to my parents, brothers, sisters and all othermembers of my family.Amina Chowdhury

March, 2004

,ABSTRACT

Green space, in the form of parks is an integral part of c\'ery city. By om:ringoppornmities for recreation, reflection, and relaxation, parks improve communityhealth and increase property values. They provide habitat for numerous species ofanimals and plants, and cool city air through transpiration and evaporation

The need for parks in cities is increasing with the rises in longevity, mobility andleisure of the growing proportion of people who live in urban arc, s. Besides, citiesexperience increasing signs of environmental stress like air and noise pollution,traffic congestion etc, In this situation parks and green spaces are very essentialinside the city for its environmental and ecological balance.

This research focuses on the importance of parks in this city and how they contributeto healthy and 3afe living. The study also investigates reasons that prevent there~idents from using parks,'

The study has been divided into two parts. In one part parks h<lve been selectedaccording to their size, and nature for user survey. In other part household in thevicinity of the selected parks has been selected for nOll-USersurvey.

Primary and secondary matcrials have been used to analpe the availableinformation and to examine tbe condition of existing parks in I'haka city, sociaeconomic status of park users, their use pattern and activity.

Dhaka covers an area of 1530sq km. The city is experiencing a massive populationgrowth, cstimated by the UN at 6.9% between 1974 and 2000, resulting in immea~elll"banization, This unparallelcd population explosion is projectcd, "ith an annualgrowth rate of 3.6%, to result in 21.1 million people living in Dhaka by 2015. ButOne does hardly find enough open and.green space to relax after wnole day's h'lrdvoiork.

Moreover, rapid groV\1hof population and increased urbanization havc given rise toa number of urban environmental problems. Thus at the end of day people find somespace where they have sitting, walking, enjoying opportunity with soft nature. Thescope of this study is confined to the importance and existing condition of urbanparks in Dhaka City.

The main finding is that most of the park visitors are men. Due to lack of securityand proper maintenance number of children and women visitors is very poor, Thesrndy also found that general public is too much aware of their li,ing environment.Thc alert citizen support Dhaka needs enough provision of ::lark to increaserecreational facilities, for climatic amelioration, to reduce social and environmentalpollution and for physical and mental \vdl being.

The contribution of parks to provide comfort to city dwellers by im lroving the urbanenvironment and existing condition of parks in Dhaka also has been discussed.

Chapter Name

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PageNumber

Titleof the Thesis

ThesisAcecptanceForm iiCandidate'sDeclaration iiiAcknowledgement ivAbstract vTableof Contents VIList of Tables xList of Figures xuGlossaryand Acronyms X1ll

CHAPTER I: 1-12INTRODUCTION

1.0The Problem I

1.1.Backgronndof the problem 4

1.1.1Physicalgrowth,Population,andurbanizationtrend of Dbaka 4

1.1,2The urban dwellersand the urbanenvironment in DhakaCity 71.2Rationalof the srndy 10

1.3Objectives J 0

\.4 Scopeand limitationof the study 10

1.5Organizationof the Thesis 12

CHAPTER 2: 13-18RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

2.1 Selectionof the StudyArea 13

2.2 SampleDesign \4

2.3 SurvcyDesign 16

2.3.1 Sourcesof Data 16

2.3.1.1.SecondarySources 16

2.3.1.2PrimarySources 16

2.4DataAnalysis 17

Chapter Name

2.5 Data collection Procedurc

2.6 Problem of Data Collection

CHAPTER 3 :

DEFINITION, STANDARD and CLASSIFICATION of PARK

3.1 Introduction

3.2 The Meaning of Open Space and Parks

3.2.1 Open Space

3.2,2. Park

3.3 Space Standards

3.4 Role of parks in urban area

3.4. I Urban parks cffect on development decisions

3.4. 2 Parks protect ph}sical resource in urban environment

3.4.3 Urban parks effect on social well-being

3.4.4 Park providcs recreation opportunity to urban dwellers

3.4.5 Urban parks effect climate amelioration

3.4.6 Urban parks effect on physical and mental well being

3.5 Classification of Parks

3.6. Lessons from Abroad

3.6.1. Parks and open spaces in Japan

3.6.2: Parks and open spaces in Sweden

3.6.3: Parks and open spaces in San Francisco

CHAPTER 4 :DESCRIPTION OF SO:'t1E.SELECTED EXISTING PARKS OFDHAKA CITY

4.1 Introduction

4.2 Description of some parks in Dhaka

4.2.1. Ramna Park

4.2.2 Sohrawardy Uddayan

4.2.3 Osmani Uddayan

PagcNumber

18

18

19-30

19

19

19

19

2022

2222

22

2323242626

27

26

31A7

31

32

32

36

38

Chapter Name

4.2.4 Gulistan Park

4.2.5 Anwara Uddayan

4,2.6 Victoria or Bahadur Shah Park

4.2.7 Hazaribagh Park

4.2.8 Baldah Garden

4.2.9 Shahbagh Shishu Park

4.2.10 Shishu Mcla

4.2.11 Sikkatuli Children Park

CHAPTERS;ANALYSIS OF SOCIO-ECOl\:OMIC CHARACTERISTICS 0,1'USER RESPONDENTS AND THEIR USE PATTERN

5.1 Introduction5.2. Characteristics of City Park uscrs and their usc pattern

5.2.1 Demographic Characteristics

5.2.2 Socio -Economic Characteristics

5.2.3 Distance Traveled to City Park ~isitors

5.2.4 Length of Stay of City Park visitors

5.2.5 Activity Performed by City Park visitors

5.3. Characteristics of Neighborhood Park users and their use pattern

5.3.1 Demographic Characteristics

5.3.2: Socio -Economic Characteristics

5.3.3: Distance Traveled to Medium Size Neighborhood Park users

5.3.4 Length of Stay of Medium Size Neighborhood Park users

5.3.5: Activity performed by Medium Size Park users

5.4 Characteristics of Special Purpose Park users and use pattern

5.4.1 Demographic Characteristics

5.4.2: Socio -Economic Characteristics

5.4.3: Distance Traveled to Special Purpose Park users5.4.4 Length of Stay by Special Purpose Park uscrs5.4.5: Activity Performed by special purpose park users

5.5: Characteristics of Small Size Local Park users and use pattern

Vlll

PageNumber

40

41

4243

4446

47

47

48-73

4848

49

5051

5)54

5555

5759

62

6264

64

6566686869

Chapter Name

5.5.1 Demographic Characteristics

5.5.2: Socio -Economic Characteristics of Small Park Users

5.5.3: Distance traveled to Small Size Local Parks by its visitOl~:

5.5.4 Length of Stay by Small Local Park users

5.5.5: Activity Pcrfomled by Small Local Park users

CHAPTER 6PROBLEM AND PROSPECT OF PARKS IN DHAKA CITY

6.1 Introduction6.2 Problem of parks suffered by users

6.2.1: Problems that suffer City Park visitors6.2.2: Problems that suffer Medium Size Park visitors6.2.3: Problems that suffer Special purpose Park visitors6.2.4: Problems that suffer Small Size Park visitors6.2.5: Problem that prevents non-users park visit

6.3: Opinion of respondents about need of more parks in Dhaka City

6.4: Suggestion for the improvement and better use of park

6.5: Type of affect due to lack of required park in the city

CHAPTER 7SUMMARY OF THE FIJ','DINGSAND RECOMMENDATIOKS

7.1 Conclusion

7.2 Summary of the findings

7.3 Some Proposals for Future

REFERENCE

APPENDIX

A: QuestionnaireB: TablesC : Photographs

PageNumber

69

7071

72

72

74-81

74747476788183

84

8587

89-96

89

91

93

97-100

i-viii

l-lV

v-vivii-viii

Table

Number

Tablel.].1

Table1.1.2

Table 1.1.3

Table 2.1

Table 3.3.1

Table 5.2.1

Table 5.2.2

Table 5.2.3

Table 5.2.4

Table 5.2.5

Table 5.3.1.1

Table 5.3.1.2

Table, 53.3.1

Table: 5.3.3:2

Table: 5.3.3:3

Table 5.3.4.1

Table 5.3.4.2

Table 5.3.5.1

LIST OF TABLES

Title

Population and area size of Dhaka City (1700-2001)

Population Gro1/v1hof Dhaka City

Population Density of Dhaka City

Name and nature of surveyed park

National Recreation and Park Association Park.Standards

Sex, Age and Marital Status of City Park users: "

Occupation and Educational Status of City Park visitors:

Distance Traveled to City Park visitors,

Length of Stay:

Activity Perfonned by City Park visitors:

Sex, Age and Marital Status of Osmani Uddayan,

Gulistan and Victoria Park users

Sex, Age and Marital Status of Hazaribagh, Dhamnondi

Lake side Park and Anwara Uddayan users:

Occupation and Educational Status ofMedinm SizeNeighborhood Park lIsers

Distance Traveled to Medium Size Neighborhood Park users

Distance Traveled to of Osmani Uddayan, Gulistan and

Victoria Park users

Distance Traveled to Hazaribagh, Dhanmondi Lake sidc

Park and Anwara Uddayan users

Length of Stay of Osmani Uddayan, Gulistan and

Victoria Park users

Length of Stay of Hazaribagh, Dhanmondi Lake sidc

Park and Anwara Uddayan users

Activity Perfonned by Osmani Uddayan, Gulistan and

Victoria Park users

Page

Number

5

6

7

14

21

49

505254

55

56

56

58

5960

61

62

62

6)

Table

Number

Table 53.5.2

Table 5.4.1

Table 5.4.2

Table 5.43

Table 5.4.4

Table 5.4.5

Table 5.5.1

Table 5.5.2

Table 5.5.3

Table 5.5.4

Table 5.5.5

Table 6.2.1.1

Table 6.2.1.2

Table 6.2.1.3

Table 6.2.2.1

Table 6.2.2.2

Table 6.2.3.1

Table 6.2.3.2

Table 6.2.4.1

Table 6.2.5.1

Table 6.2.5.2

Table 6.2.5.3

Table 6.3

Title

Aeliviiy Perfonned by Hazaribagh, Dhanmondi Lake

side Park and Anwara Uddayan users

Sex, Age and Marital Status of special purpose park users

Occupation and Educational Status of special park users

Distance Traveled to special purpose park uscrs

Length of Stay of special purpose park users

Activity Perfonned by special purpose park users

Sex, Age and Marital Status of small local park users

Occupation and Educational Status of small local park user

. Distance traveled to small size local parks by its visitors

Length of Stay of small local park users

Activity Perfonned by smalI local park users

Physical problems in the City Park suffered by visitors

Environmental problems in the City Parks that suffer

visitor

Organizational problems in the City that suffer visitor

Physical and environmental problem that suffer Medium

Si?.e Park visitors

Organizational problems that suffer Medium Size Park

visitors

Physical and environmental problem III the Special

purpose Park

Organizational problems in the Spedal purpose Park:

Physical environmental and organizational problem that

suffer Small Size Park visitors

Physical problems that prevent non-users visit in the park

,Environmental problems that prevent non-users park visit

Organizational problems that prevent non-users visit

Distribution of Respondents opinion about need of more

parks in Dhaka City

Page

Number

63

656667

63

697071

72

73

75

75

7677

79

80

go

82

83

83

34

34

Table

Number

Table 6.4

Table 6.5

Title

Suggestion for the improvement and better use of park:

Type of affect due to lack of required green space in the

city:

LIST OF FIGURES

Page

Number

8587

Figure Title PageNumber Number

Figure Ll Open Space of Dhaka City 3

figure 2.1 Location of Surveyed Parks 15

Figure 3.1 Gabriela Mistral Park before renovation 28Figure 3.2 Gabriela Mistral Park after renovation 28

Figure 3.3 Gabriela Mistral Park during the annual Carnival 29celebration.

Figure 3.4 San Francisco Mayor helping neighbors to plant trees 29

Figure 3.5 Local people constructing the stage using recycled sranitc 30curb stones

Fig 4.2.1.1 SeVvagc lines from nearby localities have been already 33closed but water of the lake is still unclear and polluted

Fig 4.2.1.2 Ratlllliliake playing very important role for it> 33environmental and ecological balance

Fig 4.2.1.3 Huge tress were planted aronnd the lake side 33

Fig 4.2.1.4 Children's comer" Shishu Prantar" 35

Fig4.2.1.5 Ramna Park from the west 35

Fig 4.2.1.6 RaTlUlaRestaurant inside the park 35

Fig4.2.2.1 Pond inside sohrawardy uddayan 37

'"

FigureNumber

Fig 4.2.2.2

Fig 4.2.2.3

Title

South east - viewed from foot bridge

Once large green area and openness of the uddayan attractthe visitors

PageNumber

37

37

figure4.2.8.1 Large sun dial outside the south west comer. of theBaldha Garden

Figure4.2.8.2 Green house ofBaldha Garden

Figure4.2.8.3 The 8ankha- Nidhe pond inside the Baldha Garden

GLOSSARY Ai'lD ACRONYMS

45

4545

BAEC

BBS

BUET

eusdB

Dec

DIT

DMDP

DOE

IAEA

KDA

NRPAPWDRAJUK

UN

WHO

Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission

Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics

Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology

Centre for Urban Studies

Decibels

Dhaka City Corporation

Dhaka Improvement Trust

Dhaka Metropolitan Development Plan

The Department ofEnvirornnent

International Atomic Energy Agency

Khulna Development Authority

National Recreation and Park Associution

Public Works Department

Rajdhani Unnayan Kartipakhya

United Nation

World Health Organization

Xtll

Chapter 1: Introduction

1.0 The Problem

Green space, especially in [he form of parks and nature preserves, is an integral part of

every city. By offering opportunities for recreation, reflection, and relaxation parks

improve community health and increase property values. They provide habilat for

numerous species of plants, and cool city air through transpiration and evaporation(Vandervoort, 1991).

Parks are vital clements in Our city environment. They must be seen not just as space

rcmaindered from development or land use but as an essentia, element which

determines [he character and quality of the urban environment. In urtan areas different

types of parks perform different roles for city dwellers daily and week.:nd activities.

Western experts think an ideal city needs to keep its 40%-50% of land open and their

big as well as small cities remain 70% -80% open and green. Even CiTystate Singapore

remains 60% open. This picture is different in Dhaka. Now Dhaka City lacks miserablyin providing green spaces for its people (Alam, 1999).

Dhaka is badly served for open and green space according to any per capita measure.

Distribution of green space does not correspond 10 population distribution. Indeed, the

more crowed an area, the less green space available. Then old Dhaka has the highestdensity and lowest levels of open and green space.

Here in old Dhaka only 5% and in new Dhaka 12% of land is green al1d open (n.V/DP,

i995). The total amount of open ~pace including its road, footpaths, parks, playficld~,

lakes, ponds, etc. in Dhaka is about 17%-18% of city atea (Alam, i99,').

2

Traditionally various authorities like PWD, RAJUK, DCC manage green and open

space in Dhaka City. At present being influenced by political decision all the parks in

local areas are handed over (0 DCC and large green areas under PWD. AHhough PWD

has a list of green space but DCC has no complete list of parks under their control. At

present the stock of public open spaces under DCC control is apprm"mately 190 acres

and under PWD is 302 acres. (Nilufar, 1999).

This two-authority cover 0.768 sq. miles of area, which is only 1.4% of Dhaka's land.

But ON/DP Structure Plan claims that at the city or metropolitan scale. Dhaka has a f3.ir

representation of recreational open space, both for active and passive r~creation, though

arguably not enough. (Dhaka Structure Plan, Vol-l, 84: 1995). These green spaces

could provide opportunity for relaxation to city dwellers after whole days work. They

could also help to soften harshness of the city.

Today due to pressure of rapid urbanization, cities like Dhaka are mostly built-up areas,

Here population pressure is higher than its capacity, roads are crowded with vehicles

and air is laden with lead, smoke etc. The on going dcvelopment activities are creating

constant pressurc to maximize floor space and squeezing all open and green space out

of the urban landscape. As a result in Dhaka the quality ofliving environment is gettingworse and unhealthy.

Moreover existing parks in the city where children, youth and adults ,;an relax and get

softness of nature have lost its usefulness as a park. Lack ofseeurit;" di~turbanccs by

anti-social elements, aod cases of mugging inside the park arc common feature in

existing parks. These chamcteristics have made park> unusable for its lIsers or visitors.

Experience has demonstrated that where appropriate facilities for the use of leisure time

are found wanting, there Iikewi,e are absent the opportlmity for much needed sunlight,

wholesome exercise, freedom of space, and contact wilh nature. Under 'meh

3

Open Space of Dhaka City

~N

•

'.- •

., . .,. ,- .

• •.-.-..-,,-'.- --.-.,... -••••••.-. - .•

~ .•

•.."•-.-.

•'.

N--N----

Fig L I: Open SJI3C""fDhaka City

4

circumstances the people are deprived of their right to health and happiness. Juvenile

delinquency is encouraged by lack of recreational enjoyment, and in tum there is more

vice and crime among the adults.

As the city has become more densely populated accompanied by noi~;,;,smoke, dust etc.

the demand for open and green in the city has increased. Provision of open space caters

to this growing demand and provides relief from the monotony of urban life. No

regional or town plan is complete without a system of park and playgrounds (Nabi,

1978).

Two studies have been made earlier on similar topics. One of them was conducted by

Siddiqui (1990) regarding the problems and deficiencies of operation and maintenance

of existing parks and open spaces in the city. The other was done by Sabiha (1980)

deals with type of recreation and their socio-economic correlates and attempts to

ascertain the recreational needs of the neighborhood residence in Dhaka city. "t\o study

has been made regarding the role of open space, especially parks in Dhaka eity, and

then problems that prevent park visitors.

1.1. Background of the problem

1.1.1. Physical growth. Population, and urbanization Irend af Dhaka:

The city of Dhaka had many ups and downs politically, economically and functionally,

Dhaka first became important during Mughal period in 1608. The industrial and

commercial prosperity of the city started during the third Viceroy, Ibrahim Khan, ITom

1663 to 1679 was Dhaka's golden age. Industry and trade flourished People flocked to

the city from the surrounding areas and the population of the eity reached its maximum

level.

.

5

The East India Company took over the administration of Dhaka in 1764 and the

commercial and manufacturing policies of the East India Company wrecked the

financial bases of the city. Thus the population of Dhaka declined very sharply. This

naturally led to the shrinking of the physical extent of the city.

In 1769, the province experienced severe famine. The extensive flooding: of 1784, 1787

and 1788 effected Dhaka by death and desertion to th" rural areas. In 1800, the

population of Dhaka fell down to 200,000. In ]838, it declined to 68,038 "hile by 1876

it was only 51,638. The declining fortune of the city, as noted had a catastrophic impact

upon the population and physical boundaries of Dhaka (Karim, 1962).

Table-LI.1: Population and area size of Dhaka (jtv (j700-20Y,m Periods Population Area (sq.km)

\608 Pre-mughaJ 30,000 21700 Mu hal eriad 900,000 4.01800 British eriad 200,000 4.51901 British eriad 104,385 201941 British eriod 239,728 251951 Pakistan eriad 411279 851961 Pakistan criod 718766 1251974 Ban ladesh eriod 2068353 3361981 Ban ladesh criod 3440147 SID1991 Ban ladesh eriad 6887459 13532001 Ban ladesh" eriod 10712206 1530

01)

Source: Bangladesh Population Census 200\

The second half of the nineteenth century saw some improvement in Dhaka. In 1~64,

Dhaka Municipal Council was formed and from then on the town began to expand

again. By 1882, the population rose to 80,645 and by 1901, it was 104,385. In 1906

Dhaka was to be elevated to the status of provincial capital.

6

Table 1.1.2: Population Growth of Dhaka City

Year Population Growth Rate in %

1911 1.77 %

1921 0.93 %

1931 1.53 %

1941 4.19 %

1951 1.28 %

1961 5.18 %

1974 9.32 %

1981 9.94%

1991 6.55 %

2001 6%

Source: BBS, 2001

After the partition of India, there were influxes of population to Dhaka City from India

and also from rl.lral areas. To accommodate this influx of population, Azimpur and

Motijheel colonies were built. Dhanmondi, Mohammadpur, Mirpur f.nd laler GlIlshan

and Banani residential areas were developed. Dhaka Improvement Trust (now RAJUK)

was set up in 1956 to ensure planned development of the City. Dhaka starts to expand in

the north direction. The population of Dhaka rose to 4, 11,279 in 1951 and to 7, 18,766

in 1961.

In1989 the boundary of Dhaka was defined as Jaidebpur and Tongi in the north, the

Shita1akkha River in the cast, Namyanganj and Burlganga River in th,; south and Savar

in the wcst. The physical boundary of Dhaka has grown from 85sq. km in 1951 to the

present sizc of 1530 sq. km.

The City of Dhaka has emerged as a fast growing mega city which c:;perienced a high

rate of urban growth in the last few decades. The rapid urhani7,.aI;Jn in Dhaka has

created an adverse effect to it's over all urban environment. From the standpoint of

7

urbani7..ationDhaka hold 1" position (UN, 1998). As a result (he existing situation is

fast deteriorating due to rapid increase of urban grov,th,

At present being the seat of all administrative and commercial actil'itics at all levels

Dhaka has been made the focal destination for million of people and one of the fastest

growing metropolises in the world. Population density of Dhaka mcg~'cily was found to

be 4795 persons/sq. kIn in 1991 and the present density is estimated at approximately

8573 persons/sq. kIn. However, the population density of Dec area is more than three

limes of the mega city area, as in 1991 it was 15333 persons/sq. km against estimated

present density of 18055 persons/sq. km (BBS, 2001).

Table: 1.1.3 Population Density of Dhaka City

Urban Popl.ilation Density (persons/sq. km)Y'M Dhaka CityBangladesh Dhaka Mega City

Corporation1991 2179 4795 153332004 3008 8573 18055

SQurce' BBS. 2001

According to the 199~ census Dhaka city is comprises of an area of 1353 sq. km. with

the population of about 7.0 million (BBS, 1999). In 1981 the area was 510 sq. km. with

3.46 million. Population or Dhaka City in 2001 was 10.7 million with an area of 1530

sq. km. (BBS, 2001).

1.1.2. The urban dweller!>'and the urban environment in Dhaka City

Dhaka city with 1530sq. km area and 10.7 million habitants fail to provide an open and.

healthy environment to its dwellers. As urbanization i5 high in Dhaka migration rate is

also high. Ponds, parks, canals and other vacant lands are replaced by house.

workplaces and markets to provide shelter and service for its inhabitants.

8

The'mos! deplorable aspect of the fast urbanization of Dhaka is dif[(:rent type pollution

and depletion of open spaces and greenery. Now Dhaka city dwellers arc being slow

poisoned by the growing air pollution. Air pollution causes irritation, asthma, high

blood pressure, heart disease and even cancer. According to World Bank en~ironmental

experts, air pollution levels 1n Dhaka are considerably higher than World Health

Organization guidelines for residential areas (Asian Economic News, 2001).

A survey conducted in 1999 showed that the concentration of suspended particles goes

up to as high as 3,000 micrograms per cubic meter althO<.1ghthe allowable limit is 400

micrograms per cubic meter (Rahman, 2001).

SAEe reported that the air that city dwellers breathe on the roac':; contains lead in

concentrations almost ten times abovc the government safety standa,'j sct by the DOE.

The air of Dhaka City holds 463 nanograms per cubic meter of lead _ the highest in the

world. Lead conccntrations, recently measured in the tested children's blood, are 7-16

times more than the acceptable limit. The lead poisoning produces nemo-developmental

disorders in children and could damage-their brain and kidney (Rahm;n, 2001).

Dhaka is also a city of noise pollution which in several areas of Dhaka city is much

higher than the tolerable limit. According to the WHO generally {.Q dB sounds can

make a man deaf temporarily and 100 dB sounds eao cause complete deafness(Rahman, 2001).

But the noise of any busy street in Dhaka has been estimated at 90 to 110 dB.

According to a survey of the Department of Environment (DOE), noise causes mental

and physical illness among the people (Rahman, 2001).

9

A survey of DOE indicates that at Shaheen School the noise level is 83 dB during

daytime and 74 dB at night. at Dhanrnondi Government Boys Sch,lQi 80 dB during..daytime and 75 dB at night, at Dhaka Medical College Hospital 80 dB during the day

and 69 dB at night, at Shishu Hospital 72 dB during the day and 69 dB at night (Dey,

Kabir and Efroymson, 2002).

Water pollution and indiscriminate filling of water bodies are also serious problems in

this city. Almost every lakeside green space has either been secretly allocated by

responsible authority grabbed by influential individuals taking advantage of legal

loopholes.

About 400 tons out of 3,500 tons of solid waste, generated in the cit:, everyday, remain

on the road and in open spaces. Vehicles of Dhaka Cily Corporation ,'DeC) removes the

rest solid waste and carries those to its dumping grounds, which are again located in

open spaces, contributing to air and water pollution in the areas in the immediate

vicinity of Dhaka city (Rahman, 2001). Therefore at pre5e~t environ:nemal situation in

Dhaka is now alarming.

Thc government of Bangladesh has estimated that 23.39% of the tOlal population of the

country is in urban areas (BBS, census 2001 :6); Dhaka aCC(luntsfo'r more than half of

the total urban population in the country. Despite thc problems with air, water and noise

pollution, congestion, crime and health migration from other areas continue to migrate

to the city of Dhaka propelled by myriad reasons (Begum, 199$':4). This situation

decreases open and grcen spaces in the city and makes proliferation of high-rise without

leaving ground area open and green for public use. The city is becon::ing more and more

crowded day by day.

10

These processes result in a city where there is no place for the people to enjoy their'

leisure time. A metropolis cannot be and must not be over proliferation of concrete

structures; there are need for greenery, water bodies' fresh air and open space and parks

where the city dwellers would be able to release and breathe peacefully.

1.2 Rational of the atudy

The rapid grov"ths of population and consequent increased ,urbaniZ<ltionhave created a

number of urban environmental problems in Dhaka. Due to lack of proper maintenance

and attention of responsible authority most of the exisling parks haw become unusable

for use by the general public. Moreover, the few existing parks, which once met the

demand of the children, young, and aids, have already vanished by ilkgal construction.

While open space in the form of parks only can provide us with an opportunity to fulfill

our desire fOf the softness of nature in this polluted and congested eil'l. It is necessary to

understand these types of problem from the perspective of the affected people who are

the user of the environment. The aim of this study is to gain a better understandinr of

the present condition of the existing parks and needs of parks in city eavironment.

1.3 Objedives

The specific objectives are:

• To investigate the role of open space specially parks in the urban environment.

• To explore reasons that prevents use of parks by residents.

• To integrate planning and maintenance of open spaces, especially parks, with

tfle total urban devclopment process of Dhaka.

1.4 Scope and limitation of the study

According to experts 25% area or a city should be preserved as open space or parks to

maintain healthy environment for its dwellers. Parks accessible to tflc general public

-11

provides an integral and necessary part of urban living, particularly in areas of high

density. Dhaka city has a considerable number of parks though tar lower than other

international cities. But due to lack of proper maintenance and regulations the existing

parks are becoming inconvenient for its users day by day.

Moreover rapid gro\Vths of population and consequent increased urbanization have

created a number of urban environmental problems including high air, noise and social

pollution, congestion etc. Thus at the end of day people find some space where they can

sit, walk, enjoy the soft nature. The scope of this study is confined to the importance

and existing condition of urban parks in Dhaka City.

In this study citizen's opinion has been used as indicator for cvalunting the extent and

nature of the problem. The main foeus of the study is to investigate the existing

problems and role of parks in mban environment and their availabilil:' in Dhaka City, In

these circum"tanees the following variables have been ~e1ected

• Demographic and socio economic characteristics of user respondents

• Mode of travel and travel cost

• Distance traveled to park

• Frequency of visits and length ofstay

• Respondents' opinion of using parks for physical and mental well being

• Problems that park u~ers suffer and prevent nonusers park visit

• Possible affects ifthere is not enough green space in the city,

• Activities performed by park visitors

Due to Jimitatlon of time, resources and lack of security the stlldy h:lSmainly confined

on the importance and existing problem issue of the existing urban pal'ks in Dhaka City.

-12

1.5 Organization ofthe Thesis

The thesis has been organized as to gain knowledge about the problem dealt with in this

research and the method of conducting the research. The subject matter of the thesis has

been divided into seven chapters. Chapter I contains statement of the problem and

background of the problem, research objectives, scope and limitation of the study,

rational of the study etc.

Chapter 2 contains the methodologies of the study. In Ihi, chapter selection of study

area and the working procedure of the research has been elaborated. r:::hapter3 contains

a discussion about definition of opcn space and parks, their standard. c1as,; fication; role

of parks etc.

Chapter 4 is devoted to a brief discussion about some existing parks in Dhaka city. It

contains location, operation and management, existing facilities, exi,;ing condilion etc.

Chapter 5 and 6 are the main analytical part of the report. Chapter:: gives analysis of

thc socio economic status of park users, their use pattern, activity etc.

Chapter 6 gives an analysis of the'need and importance of parks in Dhaka city_ It also

analyzes the major causes which prevent park visitors from visiting parks, The final

chapter is conclusion and recommendation. Before the conclusion the major findings

are summarized.

Besides the chapters Bibliography and Appendix, which contains questionnaire format

and some related information are also included.

13

Chapter 2: Research Methodology

2.1 Selection of the Study Area

As urbanization is high in Dhaka migration rale is also high. Dhaka, the capital city

of the country as its share of national urban population wa> 25% in 1981, 31% in

1991 and 34% in 2001 respectively. The population of Dhaka mega city is estimated

at 10.7 million while that of Dhaka City Corporation (DeC) 3I{>~1at 5.94 million in

the year 2004 (Bangladesh National Report, 2001).

As a result ponds, parks, and other vacant lands are replaced by unplanned houses,

workplaces and markets to provide sheller and service for the (l{1ditionalpopulation.

The city also experiences increasing sign of environmental stress, mainly in the form

of poor air quality, excessive noise and traffic congestion etc. In this siluation people

fmd an unspoiled nature to relax after their busy lifc. Therefore parks in the city

could provide this opportunity.

Dhaka has a fair representation of pm-ks and gardens though arguably not enough.

Comparing with Olher world eilies standard this provision may be so little but still

Dhaka has its Ranula Park like London ilS Hyde Park (DMDP, 1995). At present

most of these parks are not conveniem for use by the general public for various

reasons.

But parks are vital element ill the urban environment. They perform various positive

functions to improve the quality ofnrban living. For this reason parks in Dhaka City

have been selected as study area in this research. Thus study has been divided into

two parts. In one part a total 17 parks has been selected for user survey. Parks were

selected according to their size and nature.

.,~

14

Name and natufe of surveyed park

Nature of parkCity park

Medium size neighborhood park

Special purpose park

Small size local park

Name of parkRamoa ParkSohrawardi UddayanZia Uddayan

Osmani UddayanGulistan ParkHazaribagh PmkVicloria ParkDhartmondi Lake side ParkAnwara Udd,.,1all

Boldha GardenShahbagh Shi"hu ParkShishu Mela

Sikkatuli ParkPantho KunjooNawabganj ParkBaridhara ParkSirajuddowla Park

In other pan household in the vicinity of the selected parks has been selected for

non-user survey.

2.2 Sample Design:

In this study selected parks and household has been considered (!s the sample unit

and each respective woman! man is the respondent. Due to shortage of time and

resource a total 300 respondents have been selected for the survey. Among them 250

respondents were park users. In each city park .32, in each m"dium and special

purpose park 13~17 and in eaeh small park 5 questiotlllaire surv,')' was earried. 50

respondents were non.users. At least 10 household were selected lS the sample l'nit

for non-user survey. Respondents were selected randomly from each park and each

household.

','.

• - 15

GAlIf"JR uPAZlLA GAZIPUR ZILA

J\UPGAfI, U"AlILA

N;RAYANGAI'J UPAZIV,

~',,~NARAYA:,'GANI ZILA

,'.

"',~"'"'

~,,"

~.",

'.Ib,

• Study Area

UPAlM

LfGENDlINo' em oo"0",,1m,(1Ti \ORPORAT10N"El

ll<~"~60U""MY

DHAKA CITY CORPORATIONDHAKA ZILA

Fig: 2.1. Location ofsurveyed parks

16

User Respondent: Those respondents were considered as user who visits parks at

least once a week or once a month.

Non-user Respondent: Those people were considered as nOll-user who docs not

visit park or visit very occasionally.

2.3 Survey Design

2.3.1 Sources of Data

2.3.1.1. Secondary Sources

At the firs! step of the research procedure an extensive literauue were reviewed

relating to the study to develop the concept of the study. This litewture survey

helped mainly to Conn ideas regarding standard, process of park development and

improvement, role of parks in urban environment. For these purposes different

books, journals, reports, documents, newspaper, seminar papers and the Internet

have been used.

2.3.1.2 Pr;marySources

It the context of Bangladesh very fe'" studies have been done about open spaces and

parks. To fulfill the mentioned objectives this study mainly deF':nded on primary

sourees. As information about the selected research topic was not available so data

were eollected from primary sources. Data were collected from the fol1ovvingways:

1) Reconnaissance SurvC)'

In reconnaissance survey field visits were undertaken according to list of parks

under the Department of Arbory Culture of the Public Works Division (PWD),

Dhaka City Corporation and other public open spaces under different agencies and

institutions, Data were colkcted from concerned authorities for identification of

existing parks. Therefore the reconnaissance survey helped to id:ntify the parks for

the present study were appropriate or not.

17

2) Physical Observation SurvC)'

A physical observation schedule was used to assess the existing character of the

parks that have been ~elected for this research. [I abo helped to record people's

behavior in a given situation, And to avoid bias which arises from incorrect

information that has been given by the respondents. Besides, it also helped to

identify the nature of use and various influencing ["cLOrs of parks such as

attractiveness, different facilities, management such as security, cleanliness, routine

check etc. In this survey photographs were also taken.

3) Questionnaire Survey

Questionnaire survey has been carried OU!to gather primary information from user:;

and nOil-users. This gave information about the socio ocono;]tic status, mode of

travel, length of stay, frequency of visit of users. II also gavc information about

needs of park, purpose to using park, the problem faced by the u~ers and non-users,

their suggestion for the improvement, their opinion regarding tJle affects if there is

no green in the city etc. It also helped to assess the demand of parks in the city and

their need in the urban setting. The interview has been taken by random sampling

method on the selected spots and area within half-mile radius of the selected parks.

4) lnten.iew

Intervie\VS wcre conducted with experts and persOlUlel of park and related city

development organizations. These are Dhaka City Corporation (DCC), Public Works

Department (PWD). The aim of these interviews was to collect information about,

thc present condition of existing parks, their problems and solutions required, their

plans to develop the parks their responsibility and limitations.

2.4 Data Analysis

Computer software and different techniques of statistics have been used for the

analysis of thc collected data, Simple frequencics, percentage, fnd cross tabulation

has been done for the present study. Findings of the sllldy huve been presented in

tabular and gr:lphical form.

18

2.5 Data eollection Procedure

On site user survey were organized in the selected 17 parks, ,vhich varied from 0.3-

100 acres in area. Duration of this suney was March 2002 - April 2002, September

2002.November 2002. The survey period extended from 7.00- 11.00 a,m. and 3,00

p.m. to 7.00 p.m. for 5 separate days at each park and included at least onc Friday in

each case.

2.6 Problem of Data Collection

1) In this investigation it \vas fOWld that some parks such as Osmani Uddayan,

Gulistan Park, etc. aTe largely used by vagabonds, but l'ccause of the nature

Qfthe topic information collection from those parks was necessary. So it w tS

difficult to find a respondent having conscious idea fN giving proper and

useful information as conducted by the questionnaire method in some

particular parks. Hence it took more time.

2) Some respondents gave false information. For example some respondents

suffer various problems but they did not state that correctly.

3) A large nwnber of users such as those who came to escape from drudgery of

every day life or for playing did not show intere,t in answering and

ultimately refused to answer.

4) In some parks environment is insecure and unfair. For this reason it 'Wasnot

possible to survey in those parks in expected number. Such parks were

Osmani Uddayan, Sohrawardi Uddayan, Gulistan Park and so on.

5) Most of the users who came for exercise did not show any interest in

answcnng because they thought it was.a waste ofthcir' time.

Chapter 3: Definition, Standard and Classification of Park

3.1 Introduction

This chapter highlights the definition of open spaces and parks, minimum

requirements of parks, role of parks in urban environment, classification of park etc.

3,2The Meaning of Open Space and Parks

3,2.1 Open Space

In 1974 National Association of Home Builders defined open spacc as the portion of

the land surface left open to the elements. According to DJvIDP (1995) open space

'means any portion of zoning plot esscntially free of structures that serves the

purpose of visual relief and buffering from building and struetu(al mass. These areas

may be privately or publicly owned and mayor may not be acc~ssible to the general

public. But in 2000 Gustanski and Squires defined open space as the portion of the

landscape which has not been built over and which is sought to be reserved in its

natural state or for agricultural or outdoor recreational use.

3,2.2. Park

How a park is defined may depend upon the perspective of the person defming it. A

park can be defined by its relationship 10 humans or by its relationship to nature, Tn

1971, Charles Abrams defined a park as an open area, usually landscaped or left in

its natural state, intended for outdoor recreation and the general -oojoyment of nature.

At the same time according to Rutledge parks arc seen as natural area that served as

passive retreats and recreation area as were focused on athletics and active facilities.

When Olmsted designed Central Park in New York his intention was to bring a taste

of nature into the city. F,lut Christiansen Monty L (1977) views a park as a

"miniature eonununity, with all a community's characteristk complexities." He

• 20

defines a park by who uses it and how it is used. Similarly in i979 I-uurie in his book

Nature in Cirles and in 1990 Gordon in his book Green Cil:es advocates the

inclusion of natural fearnres and processes in the urban landscape.

From the above discussion finally we can say that urhan open space means all land

and "vater in an urban area not covered by buildings. And park means any public or

private space set aside for aesthetic, educational recreational Or cui"ural use.

3.3 Space Standards

It is very difficult to lay do",'I1 any rigid open space standards and to try and apply

them to all urban areas, as it depends upon many factors. These fa~tors are:

I) Age structure of the population

2) Socia-economic characteristics of population

3) Local attitudes and habits

4) Climatic conditions

5) Health characteristics of population

6) Density of residential development etc.

TIle various standards have been advocated from time to time. According to one

standard, a minimum area equal to 10% ofthc gross area oftoWll should be reserved

for parks and playgrounds (Rang\valla, 1974). But this standard has now been

abandoned as it has proved to be illogical. The main factor influer.cing the standard

of open spaces should be density of population rather than be fixed percentage of

total land.

Although community and ecological needs vary geographically, a standard set of

criteria is useful to detennine where and how a region is parks deficient. The

National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) suggests park standards

detennine the size, relative location to population center, size of population and type

of parks in a region. They classify all parks into six categories based on descriptive

21

characteristics and recommend a minimum amount of acreage relative to population

size for each category

Type Acres/I,OOO II~~Z:S) Population Service Area Ieo Ie acres Se,."edMini- N/A 2,500 'q , 500-2,500 Sub-Neighborhood feet.2 , neighborhoodPark ,,

~Neighborhood '.5 5-20 2,000.]0,000 .25 .. 50 milesParkCommunity '.5 20.100 ] 0,000-50,000 I .5ll.3.0 miles,ParkMetropolitan 5.0 Variable Variable -TWithin 30Park i minutes

drivi~~-timeRegional Park 20.0 250+ Serves entire Within I hour

popn in small driving trip.cities

Special Areas No standard is applicable for tbis category. Includes parkways,and Facilities beaches, flood plains, downtown malls, small parks, etc.

Table 3 3 1National Recreation and ParI; Association Park Standards

Source: Drescher, and Franco, 2001

In 'some Asian Cities, a standard of 1.00 acres of open space per 1000 population has

been adopted (Siddqui, 1991). Actually in Dhaka City there are no rules about the

standards of open spaces.

On the basis of open spaces available at that time the 1959 master plan

recommended four acres of land as open spaces for an area inhabited by a thoU5and

people. But the guideline, worked out in 1995, recommended four actes of land as_

open spaces fOl"an area of 25,000 people. lbe guideline alloe::ued some existing

open spaces of the city as places for recreation, but avoided dc~ailing any further

development. But according to BBS (1991), it is estimated that .51 acres open

spaces per 1000 population in Dhaka City.

It will be a useless exercise if we try to compare it with other citi,'s of the world At

present the local planning experts recommended for at least lacre of parks and open

22

spaces per 1000 population for Bangladeshi Cities (KDA Struciure Plan, Working

paper No.1, 1999; 8). !fsuch a standard is to be applicable in the case of Dhaka, the

city needed a stock of approximately 6 sq. miles of area only for recreationalpurpose.

3.4 Role of parks in urban area

Parks are natural landscape. Traditionally this type of space is designed considering

functional and aesthetic purpose. But at present urban parks play many other

important roles. These are

3.4. 1) Urban parks effect on development decisions

The size, character, location and shape of parks can have a ;::r"ofound effect on

current and future development This means green areas like parks can help to meet

the problems and needs of development or developing areas by effecting var;ous

economic decisions like tourism, development patterns etc. Parks influencc many

development factors for example in a built - up area the location of parks can

influence neighborhood patterns and real estate valucs.

3.4. 2) Parks protect physical resource in urban environment"Parks play an important role to provide fresh air, sunlight, peaceful enjoyment of the

unspoiled nature, which is very essential for human life. City particularly in

congested areas it is not possible for the inhabitants to secure thi.', type of facilities.

Therefore, parks should invariably be ptovided for the benefit of such people.

3.4.3) Urban parks effect on social well-being

Parks are the places, which bring people together for social interaction and develop

human relations. A park opens the opportunities to people for expressing their social

interests, which benefits them to enrich them, Modern living is grouping living.

People like face to face contacts where social interaction of the group and individual

are expressed. Parks affords a chance for such expression that enriches social ties

and values.

2]

3.4.4) Park pr(nlides recreation opportunity to urban dwellers

Recreation is an important demand after work. Parks can meel positive human needs

both physically and psychologically in recreation amenities. Passive recrealion

motivates people to pursue personal enjoyment which rew"rds them richer

personalities, better health, improved citizenship' and even economic as well as

spiritual, intellectual" and physical advantage. As modern living becomes

increasingly complex, fast, noisy and crowded parks play an important role by

providing recreation opportunity.

3.4.5) Urban parks effect climate amelioration

The concentration of buildings and paved areas in urban areas lead to the formation

of a specific urban climate characterized by higher night temperatures, restriction of

wind and increased run-off of precipitation, At the larger scale veg,~tation can have a

positive influence in climate waugh evapo-transpiration, humidity is increased and

the heat required for evaporation can reduce air temperature. Therefore urban green

space can produce cool air.

3.4.6) Urban parks effect on physical and menta! well heing

Tbe underlying justification for most open space in the form or park has been on

health grounds - for fresh air, sunlight, physical exercise and psychological release.

Sometimes in certain siruation noise thresholds, toxicity levels, pollution quotients

and density patterns can become intolerable to human beings. In this situation a park

plays an important role in providing a healthy environment.

Physical exercise is absolutely essentIal to good health. For devcloping ones

muscles, for stimulating the circulation system and improving the nervous system

physical exercise is essential. This activity particularly for childr~n out of doors in

the fresh air and sunshine and for adults has long been recognizt:d by the medical

profession. Such healthful participation has its beneficial effects upon ones physical

condition and his appearance.

...

• 24

Parks are the ideal place for mental exercise. Parks provide a natural atmosphere to

induce relaxation and some degree ofreposc.

3.5 Classification of Parks

According to western sumdards all the open spaces in urban areas fall under four

types, such as:

1) Utility Open spaces

2) Green Open spaces

3) Corridor Open spaces

4) Multi-usc Open spaces

Each of these major types has a number of categories according 1.0functional land

use. (Koppelman and Chiara, 1975:42). Our concern of this research is parks which

fall under the category of Green Open Space. In 1974 according !o size Rangw'ila

classified parks in the following ways they are as follows.

Small size parks

These parks are providing inside business or residential areas where land is 'costly.

The area of these parks vanes from 1 hectare to 4 hectares. They located as settings

for architccmral public buildings or movements at junctions of roads or in the midst

of blocks offlats.

Medium Size Parks

These arc also known as neighborhood parks and they are prdcrred for every

residential locality in a town. Both the types of recreation, passive as well as active,

may be provided in these parks. The size of these parks should nnt be less than 12

hectares.

Large ~.izeparks

These parks serve the town or city as a whole or a number ofne:ghborhood units.

They may provide active recreation for games like cricket, boating, swimming, etc.

and may also accommodate zoological gardens. The minimum ar",l required for this

25

type of park is 40 hectares. None of the western standards arc comparable to the case

of Dhaka. Therefore according to Nilufar F. (1999) all the parks within Dhaka City

considering the nature of land and type of use can be ordered under the followingcategories.

Urban Parks

These are large parks in metropolitan scale, basically maintained by PWD. These

parks have occupied from 50-80 acres of land. For example Ramna Park, liaUddayan Osmani Uddayan, Sohrawardy Uddayan etc.

Urban Recreational Areas

Areas developed and assigned for more or less organized outdoor recreational

facilities. Small size parks which are used at local level fall under this category.

Area of these parks is usually Jess than an acre. As for example small children's park

developed with play equipment.

Urban Development Open Space

Op<:n spaces which shape, control and site urban development. T~ese include urban

parks in various sizes in commercial and institutional areas of Dhaka. They are

mainly intermediate size grecn areas with pavements; like Panth" Kunjoo, Anwara

Uddayan, Gulistan Park etc. These parks usually cover 2-8 acres area. Some of these

areas have historic, cultural or political importance like Bahadur Shah Park,

Muktangan Park etc.

Finally from the above discussion on the basis of the nature of function the existing

parks in Dhaka City can be classified into the follovving categories.

City Parks

City Parks are those which serve the people of the entire city. Tl~<'separks provide

general recreation areas, playing spaces, special facilities, water bodies, playing

equipment for children etc. These parks have great importance at the heart of the

city, such as Ramna Park, Sohrawardy Uddayan, and Zia Uddayan etc.

26

Medium Size Parks

The minimum area required for this type of park is 3-12 acres, with intimate,

compact and serviceable in its equipment, giving ample opportunity for use by the

people of the neighborhood. Both active play and passive recreation may be

induded in these parks. For example Osmani Vddayan, Gullstan Park, etc.

Regional and Special Purpo!ie Parks

These parks are commonly resource oriented or developed for some special purpose.

This type of park serves metropolitan needs with the type of passive extensive

activities not possible or appropriate in the city. These parks also serve the people of

the region or the country, such as Botanical Garden, Baldha Garden, and ShishuPark etc,

Small Size Local Parks

Local parks arc those which are mostly designed to cater for the needs of people in a

certain residential neighborhood. These arc for all type of people and the most

important place for 'passive recreation. Local parks provide general amenities and

children's play areas. In these parks function types are everyday type and short

visits. Examples are Tajmohal Road Park, English Road Park etc. TnDhaka a good

number of local parks now have suffered much by vandalism and encroachment

such as Sirajuddowla Park, Narinda Park, and Azimpur Park etc.

3.6. Lessons from Abroad

J.6.1. Parks and open spaces in Japan

The Metropolitan Government in Japan has worked to protect n"ture, create green

areas and secure pleasant 'Waterfrontand riverside areas. It has worked to develop

urban parks out of vacant military bases and abandoned factories, and district parks

on hills that protect natural environments. The pcr capita park spac~ in Tokyo is only

5.34 square meters, far lower than other international cities.

-- 27

The urban plan for greenery and open spaces includes a zoning system designating

zones where greenery is maintained in the fonn of public facilities such as city

planning parks and green areas (i.e., green spaces that serve as urban facilities) and

also wnes for viable forest and agricultural areas.

The plan also covers regional green areas where greenery is protected by regulations

and guidelines. Only through the organic and systematic distribution of these green

and open spaces will a plea>ant urban environment be secured.

3.6.2. Parks and open spaces in Sweden

Area of this country covers 4, 50000 sq. kin. with only 8 million populations, among

them 30% of the total population are foreigner. Before landing ,Stockholm airport

one was surprised to see that a large munbcr of trees arc found from km to !un and

confused whether it is a city or a forest .This is because in Sweden grecn area

occupied about 70%-72% of her total area.

Their process of forestation started a century before. They are still maintaining the

tradition willingly by themselves in a very calculative way. All Swedish citizens

participate in this plantation process. After birth a Swedish child grows up as a

environment conscious citizen. According to a Swedishjournalisl envirorunent is the

first and foremost chosen subject rather than job in Sweden.

3.6.3. Parks and open spaces in San 'Francisco

In San Francisco Gabriela Mistral Park is a small urban park.' Th(: facility is bl.lilt on

a site that had been littered by abandoned cars and trash. The initial building phase

took place through a grant from the Mayor's Office of Community Development.

Construction efforts were led by the Miller Company with community participation.

Through a series of community workshops organized from the adjacent Las

Americas Children's Center a plan was developed.

•

Fig 3 I: Gabriela Mislrlll Park before renovation

Numerowsnon-profit commWlitybased organi7.atio~ have helped by granting funds

for materials and labor to construct the park. Design elements include a play

structure, a raised stage area made from granite curbstones recycled from the dwnp,

and a poet's circle.

Fig 3.2: Gabriela MIstral Park after reIlO\'lltion

The poems of Gabriel MIstral are embedded in the materials of the park in both

English and Spanish Colorful plantings of drought resistant species brighten the

area and are attractive to seasonal migrations ofbutterfues.

29

Fig 3.3: Gabriela Mistral Park during Ihe armual

San Francisco Carnival celebration.

Fig 3.4 5311.Francisco Mayor Agnoshelping neighbors to plant pine trees

Japanese Black Pine lrees were donated by a local chanlable organimLion thaI

wunted to participate In the program. The park is situated on a SIte thal draws

thousands of people during the annual San Francisco Cannvlli celebration

30

•

Fig 3.5' Local people constructing the stage usingrecycled granite curb stones,

The throngs of revelers make use of all lIvailable silling surfaces including the

poetry wall adjacent 10 the sidewalk.

f........ •• - --Chapter 4: Description of some selected existing parks of

Dhaka

4.1 Introduction

Parks are vital elements in our city environment. well-maintained, safe and

accessible parks contribute positive environmental benefits, whicn help to improve

people's health and quality of life. Now 'Dhaka is the most densel} populated and

rapidly growing city in the third world countries. (Bangladesh National Report:

200l).But the environment of the city is being continuously endangered and

threatened by vari~us reaso'ns. One of them for such miserable state is destruction ofits parkJands and green spaces.

The DMDP recommended a given area of the city for use as ope~ space including

parks, uddayans, gardens etc. But at present a good number of parks and uddyans of

the city are found under illegal occupation. The rest is utilized for construction

purposes in gross 'violation of Master Plan and relevant laws and regulations. The

responsible authority failed to provide and maintain civic amenitics for the comfortand well-being of the city dwellcrs.

Few years ago the green parks of the city pleased ones mind with her natural beauty.

Those days are now just memory. But the city still has some different sizes of parks

and garden though their condition is very poor. This chapter has been organiled to

give a brief discussion about some parks in Dhaka city. These parks arc categorizedinto four groups, they are

• Large or City park

• Medium size or Neighborhood park

• Special purpose park and

• Smailioeal park

•-- ~.-

4.2 Description of some parks in Dhaka

Large or City Park

4.2.1. Ramna Park

The Ranula Park is the only largest green space for the city d\vellers. The park

situated at the heart of the city is playing a very important role as city open and

green space. In 1909 Ramna Park was established and developed as a park around

the Ramna Lake. This park is covering an area of 68,80 acres of land along 'Withits

8.76 acre lake. But the park has been swallowed partly by diffcrcM buildings alongits periphery.

At present the open green of the park is about 58 acres including the lake and the

nursery. Except the west side the park surrounded by vehicular roads, the entry is

controlled by seven defined gates from the surrounding. The land uses of the

surrounding areas of the park residential and institutional in use and are in gcnerallow-density built up (Nilufar, 1999].

Ramna Lake

In Ramna Park the lake in its natural shape covers almost one fourth of the area, The

Lake is playing a very important role for its cnviroruncntal and ecological balance.

Once the main attraction of the Ramna Lake was lotus and lily. These plants have

been destroyed due to contamination of the lake water by fish cultivation. Sewerage

Jines from nearby localities polluting the lake water have been ahady closed. But

water of the lake is still now unclear and polluted, Besides these the Jake is poorlymaintained and ill equipped with boating facilities.

Entrance

The park has seven gates which remain open from 4 am to lOpm. Police have been

posted at every entry point and they stay only when the gates are open. The

pedestrians mainly enter from the west entry, named Astachal. People usc mainly

~, 'j,

R ••••n. Lake

Fill, 4,2, 1,1: Sewnj;e 1= from ne",by locaJitie, have be<n .Iready dosedbut W!IIerof1he loke 1, still uncI..,. ond JXlllutod

FIg 4.2. 1.2 The lake playing very important role fur itse",iroomentol on<!eoologIeal hal""""

Fig 4,2 1,3: Huge lre>II """" phmlod around the 10k side

north and east entry named Aoruonodoy and Shantishaya when they come by cars,

The park has defined car parking areas for around 40 cars. But the parking lots are

mostly occupied by the hawkers. Rickshaw users mainly come from south _ easternentry.

Inside the park

Inside the park a children's comer was designed and being developed. There are

about'35 pieces of play equipment like swing, slide, see-saw in the "Shishu Pranter".

But most of them are not usable for children. The park has a stage for cultural

programs at Ashathmaul, occasional festivals cultural and cOlTlMercial fairs take

place in Rarnna Park. During these seasonal and occasional programs thousands of

people from all cross section of the life participate,

Responsible Authority

To ensure better maintenance of the park five clubs of the park users have fonned a

ten member's co-ordination committee. At present the open green area is maintained

by the Arbory Culture Deparunent of PWD. Thc major function and responsibility

of the division are the maintenance and development of the gardens, trees, and lakes

in the park, cleaning, repairing of land, structures and othcr facilities, developmentofnurscries etc [pWD, 2002].

Activity in the park

Mainly two leisure activities are taking place in Rarnna Park; those are recreation

and physical exercise. Most of the park users usc this park for thl\ir recreation. For

recreational purpose people pass time by wandering around thc greenery, relaxing

by sitting alone, by talking with others, by sleeping, by and by boating inside thepark.

Present condition

The park is now infested with undesirable elements like muggers, sex workers and

drug addicts. So the fresh air lovers now have to think twice before entering the

•.......- .

>

"

place. Unfortunately they do not have many options open to thcm. Though Ramna

Park has long been identified as a place not safe for innocent citizens, a large

nwnber of them, perhaps, the unsuspccting type, still visit the park.

4.2.2 SohrawardyUddayan

Once Sohrawardy Uddayan was known as the "Ramna Race Course". It has another

histoncal background. The oath for independence and the su;Tendered of the

occupation forces was held on the 7'h and 16<hDecember of 1971 rc~pectively. After

independence name of RanUla Race Course turned into pre>cnt Sohrawardy

Uddayan. This Uddayan covering an area of 102 acres has developed as a wooded

park on the heart of the city. It plays a very important role as the "City Open Space."

At present the park cover an area of83 acre land (PWD, 2002).

The natura] beauly, large area and openncss of the surrounding enhance once its

attractiveness. Thus the underlying stream of visitors from all oyer the city cven on

week days results in over crowding of people in the afternoon and morning.

Entrance

The park has three entrances, which remain opcn throughout the day. No guard orpolice is posted at the entrance.

Inside the park

There are still a large number of trees in huge area of this UddaYHn. The park has

very poor physical support like lighting, toilet, bench, shelter etc. Phying equipment

for children is completely absent here. Though only one toilet in its southeast corner

exists but due to its very poor condition no onc can use it. Vagabond and some users

largely use parkland for defecation and urination.

Fig 4.2.2.1: Pond inside the uddllyan

Fig 4.2.2.2; South ea$l- viewed from footbridge

F --..~•

-

31

• -

, -

Fig 4.2.2.3: Once large green an:a andopen!lC$S of the uddllyml altnlCl thevisitors

Responsible Authority

This green area maintained by the Arbory Culture Department of FWD. The major

function and responsibility of the division are the maintenance 1mddevelopment ofthe trees, cleaning, repairing of land and other facilities.

Activity in the park

Spending leisure time idly and pla)1ng is the two main activities in this Uddayan.

Besides vagabond, sex workers, beggars, pass time by sitting and sleeping.

Present condition

At present this Uddayan is a fantastic shelter for sex workers, beggars, and

vagabonds. No care of trees, no guards, no garden, and the worst of all is that the

entire place is very din)'. Encroachment at the park has taken pla"es in the fonn of a

free publie bathing place in a pond of the Uddayan. The pond ir.iide the Uddayan is

never cleaned .Due to the presencc of antisocial elements like hij,lckcrs, sex workers

and lack of proper maintenance the park is gclling a vcry worsc cGndition.

Medinm Size or Neighborhood Park

4.2.3 Osman! Uddayan

Osmani Uddayan is situated near Gulistan providing an attractive environment in the

densely populated old Dhaka. In the congested Dhaka City this uddayan is the only

breathing or respiratory organ. This important city green is covering an area of 25

acres [Siddqui, 1990J. Acco~ding to Dhaka City Corporation this Uddayan is

covering an area of I°acres. There are still a large number of~rees in the huge areaorthe Uddayan.

Osmani Uddayan \HI~developed in the eighties, had been managed by the Public

Works Departmcnt (PWD). In 1998 responsibility of Osmani Uddayan was

transferred to the D.C.C. When the D.C.C. was given the responsibility of the park it

tried to raise a hawkers market, allocating space to about 5,000 pce.ple.

Once Osmani Uddayan looked like a green park with a lot of green trees. These trees

are the suppliers of breathing oxygen for the people of Dhaka City. There are very

few places in old Dhaka like Osmani Uddayan to spend leisure lime at weekends orto walk around the green ficlds with kids and family.

Inside the Park

Osmani Smriti Millonayotan is situated inside the Uddayn which is equipped with

modem facilities, lbe Uddayan has three entrances; the historical canon of Meer

lumla is kept at the main entrance. The Uddayan is sunoundcd by grill which is

broken at different parts. The entrance is kept open all day long. This place IS

popular for unsocial activities. Inside the Uddayan there are many cheap hotels.

Present condition

Osmam Uddayan at the clumsy area of Gulistan is contributing to a large extent by

making the polluted air fresh. At present this Uddayan is a fantastic shelter for

hawkers, beggars, and vagabonds. No care of trees, no guards, no garden, and the

worst of all is that the entire place is very dirty. There is a pond inside the Udd:lyan

which is never cleaned or well maintained; many dead fishes have been seen to floatin the water,

Osmani Uddayan has already lost its beauty. This Uddayan has already turned into

encroacher's haven. Extinction of the Osmani Uddayan will sharply dcstro)' the

ecological balance in the area. The park is being used by government agencies as adumping ground.

The police department has dumped bricks, stones and sand materials for the

construction of police control room. Titas Gas has also stored pip,~sin the park. The

park is being used randomly for training of driver~. Buses and trucks are parked

inside. Osmani Uddayan which is used as a shift workshop for repair of vehicles.

When a bus goes out of order it is immediately taken to the Osm,ni Uddayan as ifitis a workshop.

'"

Besides snatchers, extortionists, drug addicts and floating sex worker Use the park as

a sanctuary of sorts. The area is already crowded by many unplanned multi-storied

shopping complexes, the bus stand, tempo stand, and government, semi government

establishments etc. Any types of lUlplanned decision will only r.lultiply the existing

problem and make the life unbearable at Gulistan area.

4.2.4 Gulistan Park

Dhaka City offers its dwellers a small number of Uddayan and Gulistan Park is one

of them. This park is situated at the centre of Gulistan area and "overed an area of 10

acres. This is the only park for the people of commercial area Motijheel, Kamlapur,

Basaboo, Shahjahannpur, Fakirapool, Polton, and Santi nagar. This park ismaintained by Dec.

Present condition

At present the park is in a very poor condition. One third of the park is swallowcd by

"Mohanagar Nattomoneho" and the rest part instead of park 'iisitors floating sex

workers street boys bcggars, hawkers are available. Some trees and plants still

remain in this garden but lack of proper care and emission -'rom large number

vehicles of Gulis tan area force them to die and to lose their freshrlcss.

It was hardly 15-20 years ago when people came into this par< with a group for

recreation and stayed there till night. But at present the picture is .~omplete different,

During the day besides the pond sex workers moving here and thcre, in anothe{ part

hijackers and drug addicts are also found. South to thi~ park is possessed by

movable hawkers. Besides this, floating people use this park for defecation andurination.

Though some police v,(alk round the park but they are useless. ll,t; total envirorunent

of thc park starts to degrade after late evening. At that time suffcrings of general

public have increased vel)' much. They have become vcl)' insecure, hijackers andsex workers hara>s them a lot,

4.2.5 Anwara Uddayan

Anwara Uddayan is an intermediate size planned green belt in tile dense city center.

This park is located adjacent to the Framgate Crossing, which i~one of the higllest

traffic zones of Dhaka. This strip of 8 acres land is elongateJ be:ween Indira Road

and.Khamarbari Road. Vehicular roads surround the park on three sides except Ulewest.

The land use of surrounding areas is diversified. The Islami Eye Ho~pital to",ards

the west; the BARC complex is beside the south road. There is a bus and tempo

stand, a daily bazaar of perishable items on the other side of Indira Road. The

Tejgaon College, some commercial buildings, Coaching Centers etc. and residential

areas are adjacent to the south. This open space is maintained by PWD [Nilufar,1999J.

In fact the park is positioned like a huge island "'lUlin the sea of F'lVedareas of busy

vehicular road. To take advantage of this position, this is used as" crossing lOne bypedestrian traffic.

There are six entries on the north and the south, and the area has low height railing

all around. The heavy pede~trian traffic flow in peak actiw hours and thesurrounding vehicular traffic make the area noisy and dusty.

Activit). in the park

Lower middle and low-income groups generally use this Uddayar:.to spend leisure,

time idly. A few middle income children corne from nearby residential areas to play

in the western part. Besides snatchers, drug addicts and floating sex worker use thepark as a sanctuary of sorts.

Present condition

Although there are a number of huge trees along the edges and s:Jme small plants

inside the areas; Ule green cover is cleared off due to heavy ll~e and lack of

--maintenance. The infrastructure is also poor, very few bench(;, and sheds exists

which are mainly occupied by homeless people, Moreover there is no regular

policing, over all environment is not so pleasant to spend leisure llffiC or to enjoy thenatural environment

Besides floating people, beggars and jobless people are also found wandering here

and there. Some of them sleep here and also stay at night. They use open spaces as

kitchen, baths and toilets. The <lrea remains very dirty in some paris .In addition,

many anti-social activities, like mugging, prostitution, drag-selling etc. Due to all the

problems people rarely come here for recreation. Sometimes a few students come to

pass time from adjacent institutions or those who are waiting for buses.

4.2.6 Victoria or Bahadur Shah Park

Victoria Park named after Queen Victoria, was created in' the first half of I~

century. In the past the park had a different appearance. At the intersection of busy

old town streets there was a small open small space in the form of a square and with

a circular garden in its centrc. During 1857, some mutineers "'ere hanged at thisspot.

The park "<IS renamed Bahadur Shah Park in memory of the last Mughal emperor in

whose time the mutiny took place. For a long time after the l';lutiny, this place

remained a haunted area and even in broad daylight people feared to tread upon thisground.

In the 19605, Dhaka City Corporation renovated the park and converted it to a

memorial in honor of the martyrs. At present the park covers an area of 1.98 acres

and maintained by Dec. The Bahadur Shah Park Morning Walkers Association also

looked after the park The land uses of the surrounding areas of the park residential

and commercial in use and are in general high density built up.

Inside the Park

The park' is oval in shape, and enclosed vvithiron railing, There is an obelisk and

cenotaph inside the park. There are also two wash rooms for male and female insidethe park.

Activit}, in the park

Generally the park is used by lower middle and low income groups. People of all

age groups come to the park for jogging, doing other exercises ~laying and even for

passing their leisure times every day. Different small-scale euitural activities arc also

held in the park. A large number of diabetic people also come to the park for a walkas walking is the best way for them to keep fit

Present condition

Although there are a number of trees and some small plants inside the areas; the

.green cover is cleared off due to heavy use and lack of ;naintcnance .fhe

infrastructure is also poor, very few benches, and playing cquipment exists.

Moreover, gases exhausts from near by bus stands pollute the whole area..

4.2.7 Hazaribagh Park

In the past Hazaribagh Park was popular for its beauty. In f967 the park was

developed in densely built-up area near Hazaribagh Tannery. At the time of

development the park was largely used for recreation. Overall environment andfacilities were very good.

The park was designed by various flower trees and other trees. There was a pond

and a number of playing equipment for children inside the park, At present it has

turned into a vacant land. The park is covering an area of 3.7 aeles and maintainedby DCe.

Present condition

After independence total environment of the park gradually has become the worst..DCC has separated the pond by constructing a number of building~ inside the park,

they have also setup a water pump and a machine room. There is a school and

rickshaw garage inside the park. Open theaicr has been developed for the

entertainment of general public but largely used for political purpose. At present

neither playing equipment nor flower trees are found inside the park Floating people

are still available. Generally people do not usc this place as a park A few lowerincome children come from nearby areas to play in the park.

Special Purpose Park

4.2.8 Batdah Garden

Baldah Garden was started in 1909 with some special purpOS(S,At present the

garden is largely used as a botanical park with its rich collection (.f indigenous and

exotic plants. The Garden is situated only ten minutes walk fr'Jm Dhaka's busyMotijheel Commercial area.

This gardcn has two units named as 'Psyche' and 'Cybele' .The Psyche is the earlier

construction. There are a series of rectangular water lily pools :Onboth sides, and•

nursery conservatory. On the left of the conservatory is the Psyche building

originally built as an observatory lOwer.Now with a fev.'additions it is the nucleus

of a complex of constructions that houses superintendents' office, residence, hospitaland pottery shed.

A network of well laid paths and a big cacti glass house also attract visitors, On the

southern extremity of the Psyche lies the most interesting green how,e of this garden.

The Cybele includes two large green houses. The largest one in the north.east corner

oflhe pond and has a very rich collection of orchids, and conservato0' plants.

Boldh. Garden

Fig 4.2.&.1: A large sun dial shoWl! time during sunny days

Fig 4.2.8.2: The most interesting green house ofBaldha Garden

Fig 4,2.8.3; The Sankha- Nidhe pond is a beautiful d~oration ofBalda Garden.

45

,

Many rare plants groVving in pots, in special beds, in hWlg ups and even on the floor

of the green house are another attraction. The second green house of the Cybelc is a

new addition situated at the west of the lion gate. It houses many varieties of ferns.The Cybde also houses the rose.

A large S\Ul dial outside the south west comer of the big green house shows time

during SWillY day's. Another interesting attraction of the garden is the Joy House, the

open terrace of the Joy House serves as an observatory to enjoy the floristic beautyof the garden around.

Present condition

The infrastructure is very poor, very few benches exists, Lack 'afrrarer attention hasmade the entire place very dirty. At present construction of mullistoried surrounding

the Baldha Garden creates a serious problem for the garden. Such constJuction

would destroy the greenery of the rare garden and threaten the breathing space for

city dwellers. The destmction of a garden is similar 10killing the environment which

amounts to killing a human being.

4.2.9 Shahbagh Shishu Park

Sahbagh Shishu Park is the most usable and popular park in the city that is specially

developed for children. The park is situated in Shahbagh area adjacent to Sohrawardi

Uddayan. Though this park is developed for children but people of all age groups

usc the park more than children. This is because environment of this park is slightly

better than any other parks in the city and reasonable .The park covers an area of 15

acres land ofSohrawardi Uddayan.

There was a time in the late seventies and early eighties when more adults than

children uscd to visit this park as it was new ",'lth lot of play gadget,. In the process,

children could not avail all the facilities, which were occupied by the adults.

This park has thirteen different rides and if one pays taka 104 one can avail all of

them. The park is closed on Sunday, on Wednesday it is open for the poorer less

affluent sections of the society. In winter it is open from 2-7 p.m. and in summerfrom 3-8 p.m.

4.2.10 Shishu Mela

Shishu Mela is another park exclusively meant for children and is located in

Agargaon Mirpur road on 2.5 acres of land. This park beinE nearer to densely. .populated residential areas is always full of children most of the middle or lower

middle group .This park opened its door for children in 1995 and has 45 different

games for children along, with 12 other merry _ go- rollilds.

Small Local Park

4.2.11 Sikkatuli Children Park

The park is situated at Sikkatuli area in the very congested old town. Surroundings

of the park are completely built-up. The park covers an area of 0.5 acres of land.

Once to meet the local peoples demand fonner commissioner late Majed Sarder took

steps to develop this park by filling Sikkatuli ditch, At that time some trees were

planted and some playing equipment was installed to decorate the park. Due to

negligence of responsible authority ,and illegal encroachment after few years the

park has now become unusable. But recently with the help of present local ward

conunissioner the park has renovated which is an excellent step for people of theentire area.

48

Chapter 5: Analysis ofSocio~Economic Characteristics of UserRespondents and Their Use Pattern

5:1lntroduclion

In urban areas different Iype parks provide recreation and relaxation opportunity and

also perform various positive function to improve its surroundings. People want easy

access to where they can have contact with nature and which also delight their sense.

A city needs to provide different type parks to meet demand fOf people of different

age group. But a park is not only a green land ""ith some trees it means somethmg

more. Users used different parks regularly only when it is convenient for lISC and .

could satisfied them after visit.

Though arguably not enough comparing with other world city Dhaka has still now a

fair representation of different type parks and gardens. Different type parks has

provided in Dhaka City for different user's satisfaction. Their use pattern is also

different. But at present most of them are not convenient for visitors. There is a

relationship between use of park and socio.economic slatus of users.

This chapter concerned with demographic and socio-economic character of uscr

respondents and use pattern of different type parks in Dhaka: City. So in this

investigation a number of determinants like sex, age, education, distance, activity

etc. has taken into consideration.

5.2. Characteristics of City Park users and their use pattern

City or Metropolitan Parks have been provided to serve the city as a whole or a

number of neighborhoods. Function and components of this typ~ park has bee!1

discussed in previous chapter. In this research Ramna Park, Zia Uddayan, and

Sohrawardy Uddayan has been taken as City Park.

.. 49

5.2.1 Demographic Characteristics

Sex, Age and Marital Status of City Park users

Among the surveyed three City Park it is evident that, large nwnber people visit

Ramna Park and Zia Uddayan to meet their physical and mental demand, All the

City Park visitors though suffer from variOI.lSproblems but degr~e of problem in

Sohrawardy Uddayan comparatively is higher. Frequency of use by a specific age

group is high in Ramna and Zia Uddayan.

Table 5.2.1 shows that in Ramna Park out of 32 respondents percentage of male

visitors are higher than female. This proportion is 68.75% of the total. Most of the

visitors' fall under 16-30 age group, that is 50% of the total and most of them are

male. Visitors under 46-60 age group are very few and all are male.

In addition, 56.25% visitors in Ramna Park are married. Among t!Jem almost all the

female visitors are married and most of the male visitors are unmarried.

Table 5.2.1: Sex, Age and Marital Status of City Park users

Source: F,eld Survey, 2002

Demographic Character Name of ParkRamna Park Zia Udday"" Sohrawardy

Udda anNo % No. % No. %

S" Miile " 68.75 24 75 32 100Female 10 31.25 8 25 0 0

Ag' 1-15 0 0 0 0 0 016-30 16 50 17 53.55 21 65.6231-45 12 37.5 12 37.08 11 34.3846-60 4 12.5 3 9.37 0 06[}c 0 0 0 0 0 0Marital Married 18 56.25 13 40.62 4 12.5

Status Unmarried 14 43.75 19 59.38 '" 87.5

In Zia Uddayan percentage of male visitors are also higher than female. Out of 32

respondents only 25% are female visitor. The majority of the visitors are 16-30 and

3"1-45 age group. That is 53.55% and 37.8% of the total.

50

Among the visitors of this Uddayan percentage of married female visitors are higher

than unmarried. Though significant number married male visitors found, but

percentage of unmarried male visitors are higher. In this Uddayan 40.62% 'visitors

are married and 59.38 % are unmarried.

Out of 32 respondents in Sohrawardy Uddayan 100% visitors are male. Among

them the highest percentage (65.62%) are 16-30 age group and most them areunmarried.

5.2.2 SociQ -Economic Characteristics

Occupation and Educational Status of City Park visitors

Percentage of higher level education means higher level of awareness. In user

survey, survey result reveals that most of the City Park users have higher education.

Due to lack of open lawn in most of the houses and enough outdoor recreational

facilities people have become aware about mental and physical health. Thus large

number visitor rush in the City Park regularly to meet their physical and mentaldemand.

Table 5.2.2: Occupation and Edl1cational Status of City Park visitorsSocio- economic Name of ParkCharacter RamnaPark 21a Uddayan Sohraw.rdy Uddayan

N,. % No, % No. %Occupation Servicc U 37.5 '" ;0 , 21.88

Business 8 " , 12.50 " "Housewife 8 18,75 8 18.75 " """"""' , 18.75 , 18.75 " 78.12Level " Prim. , 6,25 0 0 0 "Education "'C , 6.25 0 " 0 "88C , 15.62 , 21.45 , 6,25

B.D~e , 15.62 8 " " 31.25M. Dc ",e '" 56.26 n 53 55 " 62,5

Source: FIeld Survey, 2002

Table 5.2.2 shows that degree of master's level education is the ltighest in all thc

surveyed City Park. Among the three City Park visitors, Sohrawardy Uddayan hold

51

the highest percentage of master level education, which is 62.5%. Ramna Park hold

the second highest, that is 56.26 %, Visitors of degree level ate also highest in

Sohrawardy Uddayan than Ramna and Zia Uddayan. This is because as Sohrawardy

Uddayan located near Dhaka University large number student visitors come to spendleisure time in the park.

Table 5.2.2 also shows that type of different occupation vary from park to park.

Among the surveyed City Park visitors due to the location percentage of student

visitors are the highest in Sohrawardy Uddayan comparing with other occupation.

That is 78.12%. But percentage of student visitors in lia Uddayan and in Rarnna

Park is few. This proportion is 18.75% in both parks.

In Ramna Park among different type occupation percentage of office goers are

37.5%, which is highest and same as in Zia Uddayan which is 50% of the total, But

in S,?hrawardy Uddayan 21.88 % office goers visit the park for some special

purpose. Small number housewives visit Ramna Park and Zia Uddayan due to its

poor environmental condition. This proportion does not exceed 20% of the total.

Whilst housewife visitors are completely absent in Sohrawardy l'ddayan due to itsvery poor condition.

5.23 Distance Traveled to City Park visitors

Travel is an important factor for decisions to visit a park. Choice of possible site

depends on cost, comfort, availability of other site, travel time etc. Tablc5.2.3 shows

that significant number of visitors come to visit Ramna Park from different distances

and use different modes of transport. Among them the highest perc~ntage ofvisit:Jrs

(31.26 %) cover 1-2 mile to visit this park. Percentagc of visitors who cover less

than 1 mile and more than 4 mile is also significant. This proportion is 28.12% and25% of the total.

As a mode of travel percentage of rickshaw, bus and foot does not vary too much.

Among them the highest percentage of visitors use rickshaw as a mode of travel.

52

They are mainly middle income group, and visit this park with friends or family forrecreation. This proponion is 37.5%.

Table also shows that 25% users. travel on foot. These users m~jnly reside near the

particular park Most of them visit for exercise. Most of the users who use buses to

visit the Ramna Park are male and usually cover a long distance. This proportion is

21.88 %. A few users use car and they are only 6.25%. Most of these users come fOT

exercise and visit regularly.

Table 5.2.3: Distance Traveled to City Park visitors

Travel Name of ParkRamna Park Zia Uddayan Sohrawardy

UddavanNo. % No. % No. %

Le" ili," 1 9 28.12 , 12.5 15 46.87Distance mile1-2mile 10 31.26 8 '5 17 53,13.2.4 mile 5 15.62 18 56,25 0 0More ili,o , 8 25 2 6,25 0 0mile

Mode C" 2 6.25 5 15.62 0 0So; 7 21.88 6 18.75 0 0Foot 8 25 5 15.62 12 37.5Taxi 3 g.37 10 31.25 0 0Rickshaw 12 37.5 6 18.76 20 62,5-

Cost No cost 10 31.25 6 18.75 12 37.52 mk, 2 6,25 2 9.37 0 05 mk, , 25 , 12.5 " 43.75Above 10 taka 12 37.5 19 59.37 6 18.75Time Less than " 3 9.38 5 15,62 22 68.75minutes15.30 minutes 20 62.5 20 62.5 10 31.251 hour 7 21.87 7 21.88 0 0More ili" 1 2 6.25 0 0 0 0hour -Source: Fwld Survey, 2002

Besides the highest pereentage (62.5%) ofRamna Park ,visitors ;,eeds 15-30 minutes

time to reach the park. About 37.5% visitors spend above 10 taka and 31.25%

visitors visit Ramna Park without cost.

• .-53

Similarly as a metropolitan park visitor from different di8tancc also visit Zia

Udday<ln. The highest percentage (56.25%.) of this park visitors covers 2-4 mile

distance. Among them the majority (31.25%) uses taxi as mode .Jf In!Vel and visit

for recreational purpose with their family.

Very few visitors cover more than 4 mile distance, this is 6.25% of the totaL

Percentage of foot and car users in Zia Uddayan is only 15.62 %. Visitors who

travel on foot reside the adjacent areas and come for exercise. About 62.5% visitors

need 15-30 minutes to visit this park.

But Sohrawardy Uddayan shows a different picture. Visitors whe come to visit this

park never exceeds more than 2 mile distance. Table5.2.3 shows that 46.87% visitor

cover less than 1 mile and 53.13 % cover 1.2 mile distance to vi:;;t this park. As a

mode of travel foot and rickshaws are largely used. About 62.5% visit by rickshawand 37.5% on foot.

All visitors of this City Park never enter middle of the Udday,,"! due to its poor

environment. When 43.75% visitors of SOhrawardy Uddayan spenj 5 taka as travel

cost 37.5% visitors visit without cost. Most of these park visitors need 15-30

minutes time to reach the park

5.2.4 Length of Stay of City Park visitors

People visit park for some particular purposes, thus they want minimum facilities,

Usually City Parks arc designed with huge facilities for its users. Hence visitors

could stay in this type parks long timc even all day long. ln the casc of Dhaka

surveyed City Parks shows a different picture. In thc investigation it is evident that

in each City Park no visitors could slay more than 2 hours.

Table 5,2.4 shows that in Ramna Park 84.37% and in Zia Uddayan 87.5% visitors

stay 1-2 hours. And the rest less than I hour eithcr it is for recreation or exercise.

No one visits this two- City Park for \I, day or all day due to lack of essential

facilities and security.

I 54

Source: Flcld Survey, 2002

Table 5.2.4 Len ofStavTime duration Name afPark

Ramna Park Zia Udda an Sohraward Udda an1\'0. % No % No. %Less than I hour -5 15,63 , 12.5 22 68.75].2 hour 27 84.37 '" 87.5 '" 31.25

~0 0 0 0 0 0All da 0 0 0 0 0 0-

Condition of Sohrawardy Uddayan is worse than the other two City Parks. Most of

these park users stay less than 1 hour. This proportion is 68,75%. About 31.25%visitors stay 1-2 hours.

5.2.5 Activity Performed by City Park visitors

Activities of park visitors vary from park to park. This investigation reveals that in

Rmnna Park mainly three activities take place. These are recreation by enjoying

environment, walking and spending leisure idly. The most popular a~tivity in Ramna

Park is to enjoy the nalure that is 37.5% of the total.

Walking is another popular activity, Due to shortage of space within residence about

25% visitors come to walk in this large space. Besides, when watching TV and

gossiping in controlled boundary the only way to spend ones leisu""fl,about 21.87%

people visit Ramna Park to spend thcir leisure time. These visitors relax by"sitting or

moving alone. Users who do not have any facility near their home fo: outdoor games

also come to play in RanUla Park. They are mainly young people; ':;leproportion ofwhich is only 9.37%.

Similarly in Zia Uddayan enjoying the nature and spending Jeis[;re time are two

popular activities. As Dhaka City lacks enough provision of convenient outdoor

recreational facility about 46.87% visitors visit this Uddayan to cnje'Y thc nature for

recreation. But most of them spend their time adjacent to lake side area. Due to lac!,

of security very few people enter the park. Besides, 15.63 % visitors visit for

55

•

walking purpose, some of them arc diabetic patients and some want to keep themphysically fit.

Table 5.2.5: Activity Perfonned by City Park visitors

Source: F,cld Survey; 2002

Activity Name afParkRarnna Park Zia Uddavan Sohraward UddavanNo. % No. % No. %Enjoy/he " 37.5 15 46.87 0 0Environment

Walk 8 " 5 15.63 0 0Exercise 2 6.26 0 0 0 0Picnic' 0 0 0 0 0 0.PI, 3 9.37 0 0 5 15.62Spend leisure 7 21.87 12 37.5 27 84.38time

But activities of visitors in Sohrawardy Uddayan are different. In Sohrowardy

Uddayan almost all visitors (8438%) visit 10 spend leisure time, As it is adjacent to

Dhaka University from nearest halls 15.62%visitors come to play, but occasionally.

5.3. Characteristics of Neighborhood Park users and their u~e pattern

Medium size neighborhood parks are designed to cater for the needs of people in a

certain residential neighborhood.. In this research Osmani Uddayun, Gulistan Park,

Victoria Park, Hazaribugh Park, Dhanmondi Lake side Park and Anwara Uddayanhave been taken as mediu'msize parks.

5.3.1 Demographic Characteristics

Sex, Age and Marital Status of Medium Size Neighborhood Park users

Very few female visitors visit Medium Size Park in Dhaka. Table 5.3.1shows that

out of six Medium Size Parks female visitors is found in Victoria and DhanmondiLake side Park.

•

56

Table 5.3.1.1: Sex, Age and Marital Status of Osman; Uddayan, Gulislan andVictoria Park usersDemographic Character Name of Park

Osman; Gulistan Park, Victoria ParkUddavanNo. % No. % No. %S" Male 13 '00 13 '00 W -76,93Female 0 0 0 0 3 23.07

A" 1-15 0 0 0 0 0 016-30 5 38.47 , 30.77 5 38-4631-45 8 61.53 9 69,23 5 38.4646-60 0 0 0 0 3 23.0860, 0 0 0 0 0 0Marital Married 7 53.84 8 61.53 9 69.24Status Unmarried 6 46.16 5 38.47 , 30.76Source: Field Survey, 2002

Among these two parks significant percentage of female visitors visit Dhanmondi

Lake side Park. It is 46.15% oflhe total and 23.07% female visitors are also found in

Victoria Park. While in Osmani Uddayan, Gulislan Park, Hazaribagh Park and

Am-vara Uddayan 100% visitors are men.

" , 0 = 0 us rsDemographic Character Name of Park

Hazaribagh Dhanmondi Lake At\1~ara UddayanPark side narkNo. % No. % No. %~S" Male B WO 7 53.84 B WOFemale 0 0 6 46,15 0 0Ago 1.15 0 0 , 7,09 0 0~16-30 8 61.53 5 38.46 W 76,9331-45 3 23.07 3 23.07 , 7.6946-60 2 15.40 2 15 38 , 15.3860, 0 0 2 15.38 0 0Marital Married 6 46.15 5 38.46 2 15.38Status Unmarried 7 53.85 8 61.54 " 84.62

Table 5.3.1.2: Sex, Age and Marital Status ofHazaribagh, Dhanmondi Lake sideP k nclAw Uddaan e

Source: Field Survey, 2002

Table also shows that visitors of two specific age groups are, mainly, found in

Osmani Uddayan and GuliSlan Park. Most of the visitors in these two parks are

under 31-45 age group. This proportion in Osmani Uddayan is 61.53% and in

57

Gulistan Park 69,23%. Percentage ofmanied visitors in these two parks is also high.

In Osmani Uddayan 53.84% and in Gulis/an Park 61.53% visitors are married.

Visitor of three specific age group visits Victoria, Hazaribagh Park anu Anwara

Uddayan. Among them highest percentage of visitors are 16-30 age group. This is

38.46% in Victoria Park, 61.53% in Hazaribagh-Park and 76.93 % in Anwara

Uddayan. Most of the Victoria Park visitors are married. This is 69,24 % ofilie total.

But highest percentage of visitors in Anwara Uddayan and Hazaribagh Park are

unmarried, this is 84.62 % and 53.85 % of the total. Whilst Dhanmondi Lake side

Park visits people of all age groups due to its comparatively good environment andits 61.54 % visitors are rmmarried.

5.3.2 Socio -Economic Characteristics

Occupation and Educational Status of Medium Size Neighbor'!lOOd Park users;

This investigation reveals that among the surveyed six parks house.wives never visit

Osmani and Anwara Uddayan, Gulistan and Hazaribagh Park due to their poor

environmental eondition. In Osmani Uddayan highest percent<lge of visitors are

office goers because of its location, but they visit for a very short time. Most of these

park visitors are highly educated.' Table 5.3.2 shows that aboLlt 46.15% have

graduated and 30.76% have masters. '

Most of the Gulislan Park and Hazaribugh Park visitors are engaged with business.

This proportion is 69.23% in Gulistan Park and 38.46% in Hazaribagh Park. Most

of them have HSC level education. This is 61.53% and 46.15% of the total. But

about 61.53% visitors in Anwara Uddayan are students. PerceEtage of HSC level

education is 53.86 % in this Uddayan.

-'

Socio- economic Name of Park

Character Osmani Gulistan Park, Victoria Park Hazaribagh Park Dhanmondi Anwara

Uddayan Lake ,ide park Uddayan

No. % No. % No. % No. % No % No. %

Occupation Service 8 61.53 3 13.08 J 23.07 5 38.46 J 23.09 J 23.09

Business J 23.07 , 69.23 4 30.79 5 38.46 2 15.39 2 15.38

Hou,ewife 0 0 0 0 3 23.07 0 0 4 30,76 0 0

Student 2 15.40 1 7.69 ) 13.07 J 13.08 3 30.76 8 61.53

Level of Primary 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 15.39 1 7.69 0 0

Education sse 0 0 ) 15.38 0 5 38.46 0 0 0 0

HSC J 23.09 8 61.53 5 38.46 6 46.15 2 15.38 7 53.86

B. Degree 6 46.15 3 23.09 6 46.15 0 0 2 15.38 4 30.76

M. Degree 3 30.76 0 0 2 J 5.39 0 0 8 61.55 2 15.38

Tabl", 5,~.2: occupation and Educational St~ws of Medium Size Neighborhood Park mers:

Source: Field Survey, 2002

~

59

Visitors of different type occupation and different level cdutmion are found in

Victoria and Dhanmondi Lake side Park, Among them highest percentage of

Victoria Park visitors are engaged in business and have graduated.

Whilst in Dhanmondi Lake side Park significant percentage of housewife and

student visitors are found, which is 30.76 % for each occupation, And most of these

park visitors have master level education, which is 61.55%.

5.3.3 Distance Traveled to Medium Size Neighb~rhoodPark users

This investigation reveals that except Dhanmondi Lake side Park no surveyed

Medium Size Park attract visitors from long distance. Table 5.3.3.1 shows that 100%

visitor of Osmani and Anwara Vddayan cover less than 1 mile distance to visit the

park, Foot as mode" of travel is used ,by the highest percentage of visitors. This

proportion is 84.61 % for Osmuni Uddayan and 76.92% for Anwara Uddayan.

Table 5 3 3 2. Distance Traveled to Osmani Gulistan and Victori" Park users,Travel cost and time Name of Park

Osmani Uddayan Gulistan Park, Victoria Park

No. % No, % 1\"0. %Cost No cost 11 84.61 D 100 " 61.532 taka 0 0 0 0 0 05 taka 2 0 0 5 38.46Above 10 0 0 0 0 0 0Time I.e" than 15 9 69.23 13 100 8 61.53minutes15-30minntcs 4 30.76 0 0 5 38.461 Ilour 0 0 0 0 0 0

,More than 1 0 0 0 0 0 0hOllrSource: FIeld Survey, 2002

Most of these two park visitors db not need any travel cost as they visit on foot.

Though visitors cover short distance large numbcr visitors need less than 15 minutes

to reach the park. About 69.23% visitors of Osmani Uddayan and 76.93 % visitors

of Anwara Uddayan need this time to visit the Uddayan. The same picture is for

Table: 5.3.3.1: Distance Traveled to Medium Size Neighborhoo<1 Park u,ers

rravel Name of Park

--Osmani uulislan Victoria Park Hazaribagh Dhanmondi Lake AnwaraUddayan Park, Park side park Uddayan

No. % No. % No. % No. % No. % No. %Dislance Less than 1 mile " 100 n 100 13 100 13 100 8 61.53 13 100

1-2 mile 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 , 30.76 0 02-4 mile 0 o . 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 7.69 0 0..More than 4 mile 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

.Mode Car' 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 , 15.38 0 0Bm 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 , 15.38 0 0Foot " 84.61 13 100 8 61.54 13 100 5 38.48 10 76.92RickshawfTaxi , 15.39 0 0 3 38.46 0 0 , 30.76 3 23,08

Source: Field Survey, 2002

~

61

•

Gulistan Park, Victoria and Hazaribagh Park. 100% visitors oflhese parks COVerless

than 1 mile to visit the park. But 100% Gulistan Park visitors leave! on foot. Visitors

of/his park do nOI need any travel cost and need less than 15 minutes to reach thepark.

The highest percentage (61.54%) of Victoria Park visitors visits on foot but

significant number visitors also use rickshaws as mode of trave!. This is 38.46% of

the total, and need taka 5 as travel cost. Most (61.53%) of the Victoria Park '-isitors

need less than15 minutes time to reach the park.

Source: Ficid Survey, 2002

Table 5,3.3.3: Distance Traveled to Hazaribagh, Dhanrnondi Lake side Park andAnwara Udda an usersTravel CO,l and lime Name afPark

Hazaribagh Park Dh~~ondiLake Anwara Uddayan,ide ark

No. % No. % No. %Cosl No cost 13 100 5 38.46 W 76.932 taka 0 0 , 15.40 0 0 ,5 taka 0 0 3 23m 3 23.07Above 10 0 0 3 23.07 0 0Time Less <h~ " 6 46.16 10 76.93 >0 76.93minutes

1530 minutes 7 53.84 3 23m J 23m] hour 0 0 0 0 0 0More than I hour 0 0 0 0 0 0

Besides 100% visitors to Hazaribagh Park travel on foot but most of the visitors

need 15-30 minutes to reaeh the park. The picture is different for DhanmOndi Lake

side Park. From the table it is obvious that visitors from different distances eome to

visit this park. Though most of the visitors cover less than 1 mile and visit or. fool

people also cover 2-4 mile to visit this park. This proportion is 7.69%.

Very few use car as mode of travel. This is 15.38%. Most ofthi.. park visitor do not

need travel eost and needs less than 15 minutes time to travel.

62

5.3.4 Length of Stay of Medium Size Neighborhood Park user~

Out of six Mediwn Size Parks due to their vel)" poor maintenance and lack of

security 100% visitors to Osmani and Anwara Uddayan, Guli:;tan Park, Hazaribagh

Park, Victoria Park stay less than 1 hour in the park during their visit

Table 5.3.4.1: Length of Stay ofOsmani, Gulistan and Victoria Park usersLength of "tay Name of Park

Osman; Uddayan Gulistan Park, Victoria Park

No % No % >.io %Less than 1 hour B '00 D '00 B '001-2 hour 0 0 0 0 0 0y, da 0 0 0 0 0 10All da 0 0 0 0 0 0

Souroe. FIeld Survey, 2002

But visitors to Dhanmondi Lake side Park stayed for minimum 2 hours. About

38.46% visitors stayed less than 1 hour in this park. The highest percentage of this

park visitor is stayl-2 hours. This proportion is 61.54 % of the total.

Length of stay Name of ParkHauu-ibagh Park Dhanmondi Lake side An",ara Uddayan

I parkNo % No % No %

Less than I hour n WO 5 38.46 D .001-2hour 0 8 61.54 0 0\I, da 0 0 0 0 0 0All da 0 0 0 0 0 0SOUTee,FIeld Survey, 2002

Table 5.3.4.2: Lenl,>th of Stay of Hazaribagh, Dhanmondi Lake side Park andAnwara Uddayan users

5.3.5 Activity Performed by Medium Size Neighborhood Park users

Three main activities take place in most of the Medium Si2e Parks. Recreation or

enjoy the nature are of less important because of their very poor condition. Visitors

to Osmani and Anwara Uddayan visit mainly for playing an,1 walking purpose,

About 38.46% visitors come to walk in each of these two Udda)'an, About 53.85 %

visitors to Anwara Uddayan come to play from nearby areas.

63

Table 5.3.5.1: Activity Performed by Osmani, Gulistan and Victoria Park usersActivity Name of Park

OsmanJ Uddayan Gulistan Park, Victoria Park

No. % No. % No. %Enjoy >h, 0 a 0 0 0 0EnvironmentWalk 5 38.46 5 38.46 5 38.46Exercise 0 a 0 a 2 15 38Picnic 0 a 0 a 0 0Play 5 38.46 0 0 , 30.78Spend leisure 5 23.08 8 61.54 2 15.38time

.Source: Field Survey, 2002

In Gulis/an Park the highest percentage (61,54 %) of visitor comes 10 spend their

leisure time from adjacent markets. Some visitors visit this park for exercise. About

38.46% users visit Gulistan Park to walk

Table 5.3.5.2: Activity Performed by Hazaribagh, Dhamnondi Lake side Park andAnwara Uddayan users

Source: Field Survey, 2002

AC!lVity N.meofParkHazanbagh Park Dh~,,~ondi "" Anwarn Uddayon

sid. arkNo. % "". % No, %.Enjoy fu, 0 0 , 30,78 0 0Environment

Walk 0 0 5 38,46 5 38.46Exerei,. a 0 , 7.09 0 0Picnic 0 0 0 0 a 0

"" 5 38.46 , 15.38 , 53,85S end leisure lime , 61.54 , no , 7.69

When most of the visitors (61.54 %) visit Hazaribagh Park to s:)end leisure ti'lle,

visitors visit Dhanmondi Lake side and Victoria Park for various ilCtivities. In these

parks more or less all activities are found. Table 5.3.5.1 shows that in Victoria Park

38.46% visitor's visit to "'<Ilk and 30,78 % to play. Due to its poc'r maintenance no

one visits this park to enjoy the environment and 15.38 % visit exercise purpose.

64

In Dhanmondi Lake side Park highest percentage of visitors' come to physical

purpose and a significant number of visitors \'i~itto enjoy the lIature. About 38.46%

visito,s come 10 walk and 30.78 % visitors to enjoy the nalu-:e. Due to shortage of

playing equipment and small size of playing space only 15.38 % visitors visit this

park to play. No visitors are found for picnics in these surveyed parks.

5.4. Characteristics of Special Purpose Park users and their use pattern

This type of park is mainly designed for some special purposes and serves the

people of the region or the country. In this research Boldha Garden, Sahbag Shishu

Park and Shishu Mela have been taken as Special Purpose Parks.

5.4.1 Demographic Characteristics

Sex, Age and Marital Status of Spedal Purpose Park users

This investigation reveals that among the three ~urveyed spceial purpose parks,

fcmale visitors are higher than male ones in Shishu Park and Shishu Mela. But in

Boldha Garden perccntage offemale visitors is poor. This is because at present mo,t

of the parks in Dhaka are not convenient for female visitor~ due to thcir very poor

C{)ndition. Thus Shishu Park and Shishu Mela can provide comparatively good and

secured cnviromnem to female visitors,

Table 5.4.1 shows that about 76.47% visitors are female in Shishu Mela and 58.82%

in Shishu Park but 70.58% visitors are male in Boldha Garden. In Boldha Garden

highest percentage of visitors' include16- 30 agc group which is 82.35% of thc total.

Most of this Garden visitor is unmarried. This proportion is 76.47%.

But in Shishu Park and in Shishu Mela visitors of different age groups are found in a

significant number. In Shishu Park percentage of visitors of 16-30 age groups lS

4 J .17% which is 35.29% in Shishu Mela.

65

Visitors of' 1-15 age groupo visit Shishu Mela more llften thar. Shishu Park. Under

thi~ age group 41.17% visitors visit Shishu Mela whleh is 29 '~2 % in Shishu Park.

Percentage of unmarried visitor is higher in both two parh. This proportion is

52,94% in Shishu Park and 58.82% in Shishu Mel<!.

Table 5.4.1: Sex, Age and Marital Status of special purpose park users

Source: FI~ldSurvey, 2002

Demographic Character Name arParkBoldha Garden Shishu Park Shishu Mela

No % No % "No %Sex Male 12 70.58 , 41.18 " 23,S3

Female 5 29.42 '" 5~_82 '13 7647A , j -1 5 0 0 5 29.42 I 41.17 --16-30 " 82.35 , 41.17 6 I 35.29I 31-45 5 17.65 5 I 17.64 'I 23.54

46-60 0 0 2 IU7 II 060, 0 0 0 0 0 0Marital Married " 23.53 6 4706 , 41 18Status

Unmarried l3 76.47 9 52,94 10 58.82 I

5.4.2: Socio -Economic Characteristics

Occupation and Educational Status of Special Purpose Park USers

Table 5.4.2 shows that among these three parks due to its location bighest

percentage of smdent visit Boldha Garden, Thi~ proporlion is l2.36 %, Percentage

ofhoL.L>ewifevisitors is poor in this Garden that is only 5,88% Most of the visilOr~

of Boldha Garden are highly educated. About 47,07 % have master level education

and 29.41% have graduated.

Perecnlage of houbewife and student visitors is equal in Shishu Park. This is 41, IR

% of the total. But visitors of different edu~ation level arc found in this park.

Although visitors of master level education are higher than oth,~rs but a signiticant

number of primary level education is also fonnd. This is 17.64%.

G6

Likewise ill Shishu Mela highest percentage of houoewifc visitor:'. (52.95 %) vi~its

this park. About 41.17% studenls also visit Shishu Mela. PC'"CCnlageof mastcr level

and primary level education is also significant in this park. About 35.29% visitors to

Shishu Mel<!have master level and 29.41 % have primary level education,

Table 5.4.2 Occupation and Educational Status of special purpose park users:

~Socio_ economic Character Name of ParkBoldha Garden Shishu Park Shi,hu Mela

No. % No % No. %Occupation Service 0 0 3 17.64 I 5.88Bu,iness , 11 .76 0 0 0 0Housewife I 5.88 3 41.18 9 52.95Student " 82.36 3 41.18 3 4 1.1 ;'Level 0' Priman,- , 0 0 3 17.64 " 29.41Education HSC 0 0 2 11.76 I 5,88sse 4 23.52 I 5.88 I: 5.88B, De ree 5 29.41 3 17.64 23.54M. De fee 8 47.07 8 47,08 6 35,2~

Source: Fjeld Survey, 2002

5.4.3 Distance Traveled to Special Purpost Park users

In this investigation it is evident that Shishu Park and Shishll j\,-lelacan provide their

visitors with minimum facilities. Thus visitors from different distances come 10visit

these two parks. Table 5.4.3 shows that 41.18 % visitors covel' 2-4 mile distance tovisit each ofthc two parks.

Highcst perccntage visitors of Shishu Park and Shishu Mela u,e rickshaws OT taxis

as a mode of travel. These visitors spend above ten taka fOI a "isit. Table 5.4.3

shows that about 52.94% visitors tll Shishu Park and Shishu Mda use rickshaws or

taxis as a mode of travel. Among them 70.58 % spend above 10 taka to visit each ofthe l\vo parks.

67

b

Source: FIeld Survey. 2002

1'a le5.4.3: Distance Traveled to soecia! DUTDose Dark usersTravel Name of Park

Boldha Garden Shishu Park Shishu Mda

No, % No. % No. %Less than 1 10 58.82 2 11.76 5 29.42Distance mile1-2 m,le 5 29.42 5 29.42 2 11.762-4 mile 2 11 .76 7 41.1 X 7 4Ll8More than 0 0 2 17.64 2 17,644 mile

.Mode Car 0 0 12 17.64 5 29.42805 2 11.77 5 29.42 3 17,64Foot 16 35.29 0 0 10 0Taxi 0 0 0 0 9 152.94Richhaw 9 52.94 9 52,~4 0 0Cost No cost 6 35,29 0 0 0 02 taka 0 0 0 0 0 0 ;5 taka 6 35.29 5 29.42 5 29.42Abo~e 10 5 29.42 n 7058 In 70.58,"k.

Time Le,s (han 5 29.42 0 0 0 015 minute,15-30 12 70.58 12 76.48 19 82.36minutes1 hour 0 0 9 23 52 2 17.64More than 0 0 0 0 0 01 hour..

Besides, as most of the visitors of Shishu Park and Shishu Mela cover a long

distance most of them need 15-30 minutes to reach the park. This proportion i,

76.48 % for Shishu Purk and 82.36 % for Sh,shu Mcla. Some visitors abo necd 1

hour to visit. Percentage of long distance tra\'clcr is high in Shishu Park. About

23.52% visitors nccd 1 hour to visit Shishu Park.

But in Boldha Gardcn highcr percentage of visitor COVCrless than one mile distance.

This proportion is 58.82%. About 11.76% visitors also come to ,'isit from 2-4 mile

distance. Most of Boldha Gardcn visitors use rickshaws as a rno,Ie of travel. About

52.94% visitors visit by ricbhaw but 35,29% visits on fool. Highest percentage of

this garden visitor (35.29%) spends 5 taka as travel cost and 70.5~ % needs 15-30

minutes to reach the garden.

68

5.4.4 Length of Stay by Special Purpose Park users

Though these special purpose park can provide security to its ,;sitors people ,tal' in

these parks more time thun other parks orlhe city_ lable 5.4.4 shows that most 01

the visitors to Boldha Garden and Shishu Mela stay 1-2 ho"rs, About 76.48 %

visitors ofBoldha G<lrden and 58.82% of Shishu Meta stayed 1-2 hours in these two

parks. But 52,94% stay more than two hours in Shishu Park.

Table 5.4.4: Length of Stay ofspecial p"rpose park users

Time duration Nam~ of ParkBoldha Garden Shishu Park Shishu Mcla

No. % No. % No. %Less than I hom ; 17.64 0 0 0 01-2 hour D 76.48 8 147.06 W 58.82'I,da , 5,88 9 52.94 , 41.18.All da' 0 0 0 0 0 0

Source, FIeld Survey, 2002

5.4.5 Activity Performed by Special Purpose Park users

Among the three special purpose parks thanks to comparatively good environmental

condition a large number people visit these parks to enjoy the nature. This means

that recreation activity takes priority in these parks. Tahle 5.4.5 shows that 70.60 %

visitors visit Boldha Garden and 70.60 % visit Shishu Park for re;'reation activit~"

Table 5.4 5: Activity Performed by special purpose park users

Source: FLeidSurvey, 2002

Acti,ily Name of ParkBoldha Garden Shishu Park :;h,~h" Mela

No. % No. % 1\'0. %Enjoy <eo " 70,60 " 70.60 " '00EnvironmentWalk 3 17.64 0 0 0 0Exercige 0 0 0 0 0 0Picnic 0 0 5 29.40 0 0PI, 0 10 10 0 0 05 nd leisure lime 2 11.76 0 0 0 0

69...".-..Now Shishu Park is the only park in city center where pcopk visit for a picnic

becau~e of its security. Aboul 29.40 % come to this park fOl picni,,_ But 100%

visitors to Shishu Mela come to enjoy the nature.

5.5: Characteristics of Small Size Local Park users and their usc pattern

Small Size Local Park is provided to serve the people of tho.t particular lo~ality.

Local people of different age groups use this type park for different purpose In this

investigation five local parks have been selected for the study. They are Sikkatuli

Park, Pantha Kunjoo, Nawabganj Park, Sirajuddowla Park and Bmidhara Park.

5.5.1 Demographic Characteristics

Sex, Age and Marital Status of Small Size Local Park users

_Table 5.5.1 shows that out of five r~spondcnts except Baridhan Park m each Local

Park 100% u,ers arc male. These surveyed four parks ean nol attract any female

visitors due to their very poor condition. But in BaridharJ. !'ark 60% users are

women.

Table 5.5.1: Sex, Age and Marital Status of small size local park lISe"

DemogTaphlC t-:ame afParkCh.,-ac\cr

Sikkatuli Pontho Nawabganj Sirajuddowlo H",idharaPark Kunjoo Park P.d. p.Tk

No % No. % " % 1--:0. % }.I". %

,,, Male , WO , wo , '"" , WO , '0

Female " 0 0 0 " " " " , '"A" 0.15 " " " 0 0 " 0 " , '"16_30 , 00 , eo , '" " 0 , 00

31-45 0 0 0 0 " 0 " 0 10 "46.6D , 00 , '" , '" , 00 , '"W " " 0 0 0 0 , 00 0 0

Marriod , 00 , 00 , 00 , WO , 8('MaritalStatus Unm",,;ed , 00 i' 00 , 00 " 0 , %

Source; FlCld Survey, 2002

70

In the inveMigation it is evident that Baridham Park can provide a fan environment

to its visitors, Thus people of different age groups gather both in the morning and

evening. About 40% visitors are in 16.30 and 46-60 age groups. Visitors of )-15 age

groups arc also found. Most (80%) oflhis park uscrs arc m,l[ficd

Whilst in Sirajuddowla Park almost all the uscrs are aged, the 'majority (60%) fall

under 46-60 age group and are man-ied. This park users mainly visit in the momingfor working out.

5.5.2 Socio -Economic Characteristics of Small Local Park Usns

Occupation lind Educational Status of Small Size Local Park Users

Table 5.5.2 shows that occupation and education level are slightly better in

Sirajuddowla Park and Baridhara Park. In Sirajuddowla Park majority (60 %.) aregradl.liltcs and office goers,

Table: 5.5.2 Occupation and Educational Status of small local parI: usersSQC1Q"economic Choracter Name "fPork

Sikk.tuli Pontile Nawabganj Si"Juddewla BaridhoraPark K"nJ"O M POl'k park

No. % "" % No. % Nc. % No. %Occupation Se,,';ce , '" , '0 , '" , W , '"Business , '" 0 0 0 0 , '" 0 0HQusewire 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ,~Student , '" , e, , " 0 0 ,~Level 0' Primary 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Education HSC ; " , w ; " 0 0 , '0'" , ''" , '" , '" 0 0 0 0

B. Dc,,""e 0 0 0 0 0 0 , " 0 0M.De " 0 0 0 0 0 0 , '" , '0SO",ee, FIeld Survey, 2002

In Baridhara Park highest percentage have master level cdw;alion. Among them

40% arc office ,goers and 40% houscwives. But in the rcst otlwr three parks arc

predominantly used by students and most of their level of educati:.n is HSC. This is

60% of the total in e~ch Small Park.

71

5.5.3: Distance traveled to Small Size Local Parks b}' its visitr.rs

The smaller parks have a predominance of visi(ol's from the immediate vicmity of

the prn:k. T<lble 5.5.3 shows that out of five respondents in each Small Park 40%

users travel 1-2 miles to visit Pantho Kunjoo. Due to lack of enough facilities within

the locality this proportion comes to play from nearby areas and usc rickshaws as amode oflravcl.

'The location and nature of the park influence the mode of travel [0 an mban park.

Usually the smaller parks receive a high pr"portion of vi~itors Oll foot. Thh

investigation also reveals that except Pantho Kunjoo all the (iOO%) Small Parkvisitors travel on foot.

Table 5.5.3: Distance !raveled to small size local parks by its visit.)rs

Source; held SUFiey, 2002

Travel NameofPark~ikk"tuli Patltho Kawabganj S"'Juddowla R."dharaM K"nJoo '"' ParI'. park

No. % "' % No. % "D. % No. %Distance Less {han , , 100 , 00 0 " , 100 , 100mile

I.] mile 0 0 , " , " 0 0 10 02_4 mile 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0More than 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0mileMode C" 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10Bus 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Foot , 100 , 00 , 100 , 100 , 100. Ricksha,,! 0 0 , " 0 0 0 0 0 0TaxiCost No cost , 100 , 00 , 100 , 100 , 1002 {aka 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0 05 (aka 0 0 , " 0 0 0 0 0 0Above 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

~o(i--Time Less than l' , 100 , 100 , " , '" ,minules15.30 min"te, 0 0 10 0 , '" , 00 0 0I hour 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0-More than , 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0hour

72

Travel cost and travel time influence the number of visits. T"ble 5.5.] shows only

u.>ersof Pan tho Kunjoo (40%) need travel cost, And the rest of the users visit these

small parks free of cost. The study also indicates that 100% users of Sikkatuli Park,

Pantho Kunjoo and Baridha,<I Park need less than 15 minute~ to visit these parks.

And 80% users of Siraiuddowla Park need 15-30 minutes. This means both in new

,llld old Dhaka Small Size Local Parks are regularly u~ed by the local visitor~,

5.5.4 Length of Stay by Small Local Park users

In this investigation it is found that most of the Small Parks are mainly used by two

types of visitors, aged and young group. They visit the parks 61f pbying or working

out. Thanks to its overall nice environment only Baridhara P"rk 100% visitors stay

1-2 hOlm,

Table 5.5.4: Length of Stay of small local pv.rk user~Time dut1ltion Name afPark

Sikkaluli Panlho Na",bg.nJ Simjuddowla BJridhara parkPark Kunjl>O Park Park

No. % ,",0. % No. % " ~;, No. 1%Less than , ; '00 , '00 , WO ; wo " 0hour1-2 hour 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ; '00\/, day 0 0 0 0 0 0 0All da' 0 0 10 " 0 0 0 0 0 I 0 ISQurce:held Sur'ey, 2002

Whilst in the rest surveyed Small Parks highest percentage of visitors stay less than

1 hour because of thcir poor condition, ln Sikkatuli Pa,k, Pantho Kunjoo,

Nawabganj Park and Si.Jjuddowla Park 100% visitors stay mt more than 1 hour

either they are aged or young.

5.5.5 Activity Performed by Small Loeal Park users

Usually a well-maintained Smail Park provides different type fticilities to its visitors

within walking dislance. Thus both in the morning and evenin,? people of different

age groups from nearby areas come to relax, enjoy, walk and play in this typ~ park.

73

The most benefited group from this lype park is aged people and children \\.ho C()rnC

10enjoy the environment and to spend leisure time.

kIIdbp ,Thl55 A,, .5: ctlVltv er orme y smal ocal oar usersActivity I\ome of Park

Sikkmuli Pontho Nawabganj SimJ"ddowl" Barido"," parkPork Kunjo" Park Park

No. % No. % }.iG. % '"0. % 1\0, %Enjoy the P P 0 0 p p p 0 , "EnvironmentWalk 3 or , or , or 3 000 , orberei,. 0 0 p p or 10 10 p 0 0.Picnic 0 p " 0 p 0 0 , 0 0Pbv , P" 0 " 0 '0 0 0 , orSpend leisure P P 0 0 p p 0 0 , orlime

Source FIeld Sll"'Cy, 2002

Table 5.5.5 shows that out ortive Small Parks no one visits thc~'e parks to enjoy the

environment or to spend their leisure except l3aridhara Park. In Baridhara Park

different types of activities are found among the visitors. Enjoy' ng the enviWl;ment

is the most popular activity there. It is 40% of the total. Whilst in Sirajuddo\~la Park

100% users come to walk for thcir physical fitness.

In Pantho Kunjoo and in Nawabganj Park playing is the ill')3t popular activity.

About 80% users from nearby areas come to play in these two parks. \1/h'lst in

Sikkamli Park majorit} come to walk to stay in shape. It is 60% of the total. TI1US

survey result reveals that except Baridhara Park people visit ocher four parks only

for their essential activities due to thei, poor condition.

Chapter 6: Problems and Prospect of Parks in Dhaka City

6.1 Introduction

The parks are the wonderful gifts in the city. They are the source of o;::ygen. They

cool the city, shade and sooth city dwellers eyes. These places bring limitless touch

of peace and silence to tit ones body and mind from the monot')nOUS urb'lll living.

Therefore in any urban plarming space for parks and gardens has become very

important. fiut in Dhaka instead of increasing numbers of parks and gardcns the

existing parks, gardens, and playgrOWlds are seriously vitiated very fast. Duc 10 lack

of attention of the authority conccrned and policy, these pl'lccs have become'

unhealthy itself rather than providing a healthy cnvironment to its dwellers.

In this ~ection need of park in Dhaka City, harmful affects of Lot having enough

park in city like Dhaka and the problems that prcvent a visitor fl')Tll visiting a parkhave been di~cusscd.

6.2 Problem of parks suffered by users

In this investigation reason that prevent a visitor from visiting a park are c1assifj;"d''"into three groups such as

1) Physical Problem

2) Environmental Problem and

3) Organizational Problem

6.2.1 Problems that suffer City Park visitors

Physical Problem

In this investigation among the three Chy Parks survey result shov,1; that, large

numbcr respondents suffer bench and shelter problem. Degree of this physical

problcm is vCl) high in Sohrawmdy Uddayan. This park althOl.gh covers a large

area the number of benches and sheltcr is very poor.

75

Table 6.2.1.1 shows that abvuI62,5% visitors face problem v.rilh1;enchcs and 37.5%

visitors suffer ~heltcr problem in Sohr4wardy Uddayan. In Rarr.na Park degree of

shelter problem is higher than other problems.

Table 6.2.1. [: Physical problems in the City Park suffered by visitors

Problem Name ofl'ark -Ramna Park Zia Uddayan S"hrav,.arciylidd~'an

No. % No. % 1'<0, % IPhysical Small size 0 0 0 0 0 0Problem Ab';Cnc~ of 11anl 0 0 0 0 0 0Absence of bench 10 31,25 32 100 20 62.5Absence ofshcltcr 22 68,75 0 0 ! 12 no

Source: F,cld Survey, 2002

AbDul 68.75% vl,itors suITer shelter problem. But in Zia Fddayan 100% visitorsclaim for bench problem.

Environmental Problem

Most of the Ramna Park visitors treat over crowded condition as an environmental

problem. This proportion is 62.51 % of the totaL This is because most of parks in

Dhaka City being incomenient a large number visitors rush into thiS park for vOlriousactivities.

Source: FIeld Survey, 2002

Table 6,2.1 ,2' Fnv;ronment,li nmblcms in the Ci ' Park> th"t suffer visit,."Problem Name of Park

IRamna Park Zia Uddayan ~ohrawardy'Jddavan :Environmen Noisy No. % No. % ,'10, % Ital Problem 5 15.62 0 0 0 0 IOver crowded 20 62.51 0 0 0 0 •,H; level ol1ut;on 0 0 0 0 0 0I OJ 7 121.87 32 100 ::2 I 100

In Sohrawardy Uddayan dirtine~s is found as an environmental problem. Due (0

negligence of responsible authority the entire area has become "ery dirty. Table

76

•

6.2.1,2 shows about 100% visitors of Sohrawardy lJddayan and Zia Uddayan faceproblem with dirtjncs~.

Org'mizationai problems

All types of organizational problems are found very serious m the surveyed City

Parks. Table6.2.1.3 sho",s that! 00% vl~itorsof Ramna Park face maintenance andsecurity problem.

Source; FIeld Survey, 2002

Table 6.2. 1.3: Or~ani7alional nroblems in the Cil ,that suffer \'lsilor:Organizational Name or Park

Ramna Park Zia lJddayan SohmwardyUdda 'an

Yes % No % Yes % No% Yes % No%Poor maintenance 100 0 25 70 '00 0Lack of essential >0 50 50 >0 IOU 0facilitiesLack of Sourc~; 100 0 '00 0 10(, 0Seeur;\Presence of 50 50 25 70 laC' 0antisocial elements

Degree of organi<:ational problem is extremely serious in Sohrawardy Uddayan,

100% visitors of this park suffer maintenance problem, lack of (ssentia! facilities,

lack of security and presence of antisocial elemcnts likc prostitutirm, drug addiction.

While in Zia Uddayan although othcr organizational problems cxist but 100%visitors suffer lack of security.

6.2.2 Problems that suffer Medium Size Park visitors

More or less all the surveyed Medium Size Parks suffer from various problcms.

Among them degree of all types of problems are very high in Osmani Uddayan,

Anwara Uddayan, Gulistan Park and Hazaribagh Park.

Physical Problem

Out of 13 respondents in each surveycd Medium Size Park most of the visitors

except Hazaribagh Park face shelter problem as a physical problem. rable 6.2.2.1

•

j

Table 6.2.2.1 : Physical and environmental prohlem th~t ,'!ITer Mediurr. Si7e Park yi.,itors

Pwhtem Name of Park

Osmani Gulistan VictOl'ia Park Hazaribagn Dhal1lTIondi Anwam

Udd~y~n Park Park Lake _,ide Uddayan, , , ,park

No. % No_ % No % No, % No. % No, %

Phy.<,icai Small 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Problem Absence Qfplant 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 61.55 a 0 0 0

Absence of bench 3 23.08 4 30.7 4 30.76 4 30.76 3 23.08 5 R466

Absence of shelter 10 76.92 9 69.2 9 69.24 I 7,69 10 76.92 8 61.54

4

Environment ;'-Ioisy 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 30.77 0 0

al Prohlem Over crowdecl 3 23.07 0 0 8 6l.55 0 0 9 69.23 0 0

High level 0 0 0 0 3 23.07 0 0 0 0 0 0polhltioll

Dirty 10 76.93 13 100 2 15.38 13 100 0 0 13 100

Source: Fidd Survey, 2002

•

~~

78

•shows thm in Osman; Uddayan and In Dhanmondi Lake sid<'-P'lrk about 76,92%

visitors in each park sun",r sheller problem. Table also ~hows <.bout 69 24% visilors

in Gulistan Park, 69.24 % in Victoria Park and 61.54 % in Anwara Uddayan suffer

this shelter problem. But 61.55 % visitors complain about absence of plant inHawribagh Park

Environmental Problem

Among different types of environmental problems most of [be users of Osman;

Uddayan, .t\nwam Uddayan, Gulistan Park and Ha7.uribagh Parl face problem "ith

dirtiness. About 76,93 % visitors of Osman; Uddayan and 100% visitors of Anwara

Uddayan, GuJistan Park, Hazaribagh Park complain aboUllhe mentioned problem.

But visitors of Victoria Park and Dhanmondi Lake side Park, uffer problem with

crowd. The reason is that these two parks comparatively conve,.,i~n( for the visitors

from old and new Dhaka. Thus people rush there, In Victoria P,'rk 61.55 % ~;oitors

and in Dhamnondi Lake side Park 69.23% visitors feel unecmloltablc for OYercrowded condition.

Organizational problems

All types of organizational problems are found in almo~t all the surveyed Medium

Size Park and their degree is also high. Out of 13 respondents in each surveyed park

100% visitors suffer problems with poor maintenance, lack of security, lack of

essential facilities and presence of unwanted peopl~ ",hen visit Osmani Uddayan,

Anwara Uddayan and Gulistan Park.

6.2.3 Problems that suffer Special purpose Park visitors

Physical Problem

Table 6.2.3,1 shows that 100% visitors [0 Shishu Park and B'lldha Garden suffer

bench and shelter problem. But 100% visitors to ShishLlMela claim for size.

,"o

ii,c

0z c 0 0 0, 00

0,

~

00 " 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 00 r - - - -

0 0 c0 0 0 c0 " z - 0 ~ -0 0,"

~" < "• 0" " " 0 0" ~ r c - ~ 0

0 0 00" z 0 0 0 -"0,

~ " 0 0 0~ " ~ 0 c 0- " - - - c

•~i c 00 c 00 c c - -0,

~ " 0 00 0 0r - - 0 0

~~0 0

" z c 0 0 0,~

" 0 0 0 0, " 0 0 0 c< 0 " >- - - - -00

0, 0- ~ z 0 c 0 00

1 " ", 0 - c 0 0 00 - 0 " 0 0 c 0Z 0 - >- - - - --,~0

-E0

" • 0

" -0 .~.~"00 0 00 0 0, " ~0 " ":~ 0 - " 0, " " " "~ "- 50

, 0 0"g ~ ~ ~ - 50 " " ,

" - 0

" " " 0 " "

80

Environmental Problem

Table shows as environmental problem 100% visitors to R411dha Garden face

problem of dirtiness. Whilst in Shishu Park 47.06 % visitors sutler over crowded

problem particularly at 'Weekends. A.nd 58.83 % v'sitars of Shisltll Mela complainabout dirtjnes~.

fable 6.2 3.1: Physical and envirol1metlUlI problem in the Special purpG,e Park

Problem Name of ParkBaldha I Shishu Park rShishu MelaGarden

Physical No % INo % ,\)0, 1%Problem Small size 0 0 0 0 17 100Ab;ence of 0 0 0 0 " 0lant

~Absence of 17 100 17 100 " 0benchAbsence of 17 >00 17 100 ,) 0,he Iter

Environm i\:ois 0 0 0 0 " 0ental Over crowded 0 0 8 47.06 , " 17Problem High level 0 0 0 0 0 0olllltionDirtv 17 100 9 52.94 10 58,83Source: F,eld Survey. 2002

Organizational problems

In Shishll Park and in Shishu Mela this problem is comparatively moderate bm in

Baldh.a Garden is high.. Table 6.2.3.2 shows in Baldha Garden 100'10 visltors

Source: F,eld Survey, 2002

Table 6.2.3.2, Organizational roblems in the Special purpose Park,Organizational Name ofP",k

IBuldha Garden Shishu Purk Shishu :vidaYes% No% Yes % No% Yes % INo% IPoor 100 0 58.82 " 18 0 100maintenance

Lack of essential 100 0 100 0 '00 0facilitiesLack of sec uri 29.42 70.58 0 100 0 100Pre,ence of 0 0 0 lOO 0 100antisocialclements

suffer maintenance problem and lack of cssential facililles. 58.82% visitor> to

Shishu Park complain about poor maintenance and I00% vis:tors suffer lack of

esscntial facilities. But in Shishu Mela. 100% visitors compiain only about lack ofessenti<ll facilities.

6.2.4 Problems that suffer Small Size Park visitor~

Physical Problem

In general more or less physical condition of almost all small "arks is very poor.

Table 6.2.4.1 shows that out of five small parks, physical condition of BJridhara

Park is the bes!. In Sirajuddowla Park, 100% users fa~e bench and shelter problem.

Absence of plant, bench and shelter problem are highly found in Sikkatuli Park,

Na"vabganj Park. 100% uscrs of these lwo parks suffer the abovc mentioned

problems. But 100% visitors of Pantho Kunjoo face only bench aud shelter problem.

Environmental Problem

Except Baridhara Park dininess as environmental problem state 100% respondents

of surveyed small park visitors. These parks have lost thcir usefulness due to

negligence ofrespollsibJe <lUlhority.Cleanliness is completely abt'ent there.

Organizational problem

Among three types of problem organizational problem is evidently the most serious

in surveyed ~mall local parks. Maint~nance problem, lack of e~s~ntiaJ facilities, and

presence of Ull\.vantedpeople are highly found in Sikkatuli Park, Fantho Kunjoo, and

Nawabganj Park. 100% users of these three parks face the above mentionedproblem.

Sirajuddowla Park visitors also face these problems although unwanted people can

not enter this park. \Vhilst Baridhara Park vl~itors only face essential facilities

problem like toilet and supply of drinking water. These two facilities aTecompletely

f

l3aridhara p~rk

~a 100a 100o 100o 100

No'00100oo

SirajuddowlaParkYe,oo'00100

No

'"ooo

NawahganJParkYe,o'00100100

No

'00'00'00o

Pantho Kunjoo

y"ooo'00

No

'00ooo

Ye,o'00'00'00

Smull sizeAbsence of plan IAbscnce of benchAbsence of sheller

PbysicalProblem

T~hl" ~,2.4.1: Physical cnY;"cllmeptal and org~!lizational problem th>.t""tTer "m~!! ";7~ Park visitQr;Problem ------["Name of Park

Sikkatuli Park

Poor maintenance 100

Lack of essential 100

fucilities

Lack ofsecurily a

Presence of 100100 I amota

EnvironmentalProblcm

Organil:lti()rralProblem

NoisyOver crowdedHighpollutionDiny

oo

IcvellO

'00

'00'00'00

o

oo

'00

o

ooo'00

'00100

o'00

'00

'"'"o

oo

'00o

ooo

'00

'00100

o'00

100

'00100

ooo

100

o

ooo

100

'"100

oo

100100100

ooo

10oo

o

o'00

'00100'00

100

'00o

100'00

I

amlsociul elements

Source: Field Survey, 2002

~

83

absent in Baridhara Park. As small parks arc mainly used by local people they arenot worried about security.

6.2.5 Problem that prevents nOll-users park visit

Sometimes people visit parks to relax: with nature alter whole day's hard work. Bm

almost all the p'lrks in Dhaka City at present fail to provide lhi8 opportunity to its

visitors. Thu~ many people avoid park visit.

Ph}.~ical Problem

Table 6.2.5.1 shows that 100% nOll-user respondents avoid park visit due to absence

of plant. bench and shelter in the park.

T~ble 6 2.5.1, Physical problems that prevent non-usc" vi'J! it in the park

Type l':on-uscr Res ,)nd~nty<; NoNumber % Number % ISmall size 0 0 " '00Ab'cl\ce of lam " WO 0 0

Absence of bench and shelter 50 '00 0 0

Source: Fjeld Survey, 2002

Environmental Pr<>blem

As environmental problem only dirtiness is the worst. Almost all the parks in Dhak<.

City arc e;;:tremc1y dirty. Instead of being fresh, visitors feel uncomfortable after"

vi~it. Table 6.2.5.2 shows that 100% non-user respondents ggree that diltinessprevent their park visit.

Table 6.2.5 2: Environmental problems that prevent non-u,ers visit It in the park

T",' ~on-user Res ondentYeo NoNumber % NlI.nber %No,s 0 0 50 '00Over crowded 0 0 50 '00Hi h level ollution 0 0 50 "0

iDirtv 50 "0 0 =:J 0Source; Fjeld Survey, 2002

84

Organizational problem,

Among different type,; of Qrgani7,.ationai problems ill maintcr,ancc and lack of

security prevent all the non-user respondents' park visit. In Ihis investigation 100%'

non-user respondents avoid park visit due to their very poor m"imenance. These

visitors also fccllack of security.

Table 6.2.5.3: Organizational problems that prevent non-use]'s visit it i" the park

o

~40 I

o30o20

%I 1001<0I 10060

Non-user Res andentNoNumber %

y"Number50205030

Poo' maintenanceLack of essential facilitiesI.ack of secur;Presence of antisocial clcmcmsSource: FIeld Survey, 2002

6.3 Opinion of respondents about need of more park~ in Dhaka City

In the investigation all users and non-user respondents' opinion are asked about the

need of parks in Dhaka, Out of 300 respondents smvey res"lt shows thatlOO%

respond~nt agree that th~r~ should be more parh in Dhaka for physi~al and menIal

well being. This is because parks play an important role to provlde fresh air,,

sunlight, and peaceful enjoyment. These clements are very essential for human life.

Table 6.3 shows that about 93.33% respondents \vanl there to be more parks in

Dhaka for climate amelioration.

Ro; ondcntYes No

No, % No, %

'"" 00 no '0300 100 0 0280 93.33 20 6,67150 50 150 ;0260 I 86.66 40 13.34

To increase reerealLon0 ortuniFor h sieal and mental well-bemFor climate ameliorationFor ceolonical balanceTo reduce air and nois~ ollution

Source; Field Survey, 2002

Table 6.3: Dlstribution of Respondents opinion about need of more parks in Dhaka City

Reason

Dhaka Cil) at present is losing ils greenery for various reason" which aff~et city

temperature, quietness and beauty. Be~ause urban greenery J-:hSpractical uses as

being breathing space it acts as a filter for noise, heats, fumes and smells, Thus [here

should be more parks in Dbaka.

Now the air over Dhaka City gets thicker with emission of gaseclls mixture, smoke

from various sources. Jt is well knoVvllthat, greene!) acts as a sink for absorption of

carbon dioxide (C02) from thc atmosphere. It also contributes t(, the augment.ltion

of oxygen in the atmosphere. About 86,66% re,pondcn15 think more parks would

help Dhaka to reduce air and noi~e pollution.

Respondents also think that there should be morc parks in Dbaka City lor reercallon,

It is because parks provide a nice opportunity for recreation te, spend time with

nature and to get pleasure. This proportion is 60% of the totaL

6.4 Suggestion for the improvement and better use of park

In this investigation Tesponden15 wcrc asked to conuncnt on park facilities which

would inflnenee park vhit. Thc factors in almost all parks in the city receiving the

greatest number of mentions are sound security, essential facilities like toilet,

refreshment facility, gardening, cleanliness, attractive playing equipment, playing

space for children, routine check and so on,

Tabte 6.4: SuggeMionfor tbe improvement and better use of p~rk:

Type of improvement Res ondenlYo> '0

No. % No. %To maintain cleanliness ISO 50 [50 50B rdenin [oo 40 [80 60To ensure secmi 300 '00 " 0To rovide essential faciljues 240 80 ;0 20To, oint sincere "d " 32.66 202 67.3410 rovide se arale s ace for Se arat. aClivi 10 '3, no 96,66To rovide new and attractive rides [" 55,66 m 44,34Reeonotruction and renovation 220 73 33 80 26,67Fine " 20 2U 7[Routine check 160 53,33 t40 4667 ___.'Sour~e: held Survey, 2002

. , •Considerable concern was expressed at the lack of secllrity, iludequacy of different

facilities ~nd I.lllplcasant environment. Table 6.4 show~ that all responder,ls

emphasized the need for sound security.

Most of the parks do not have any gate and gme keepeT or gllard, so anyone can

enler the park. Muggers, hijackers, criminals take shelter in these parks at night.

These people also sluy at daylight and continue their activity. If parks become safeusers would like to visit more,

Large number respondents (80%) suggest essential and impn'ved facilities in the

park for better use. These facilities are sufficient light, supply of pure drinking

water, cnOllgh, hygienic and clean toilet, clean comfortable and enough seating

arrangement, enough shed and shelter; other attractive items such as wall painting,

open air theater etc, In our country people rollinly visit park for physical exercise,

taking rest and recreation. If they can relax in thc park, feel comfort there ane' enjoy

the visit (hen they would usc parks frequently.

Conditions of almost all the parks in Dhaka are very pl'or, About 73.33%

respondents suggest if these parks were renovated with different type facilitiesvisitor:; would visit more of there.

In the investigation i( is evident that only Shahbagh Shishu Park is reasonable for all

class people. So a large number parents rush into this park for their children. But all

the rides installed at the time of its establislunent exist still now. No new rides are

added during this period of time. Thus the rides have become ri~ky and monotonousfor children.

Por better use of park' 55.66% respondents demand to add attractive, modem and

risk free rides for children which would enhance their knowledge.

87

Be~ide these, in large as well as in sm"ll parks provlding garden" in attractive design

by regular care could increase visitors' interest. Almost all parb in Dhaka are not

clean. Authority should take proper steps to maintain cJeJnliness (0 attract, isitors.

6.5; Type of affect due to lack of required park and green space in the city

In this investigation respondent's opinion were asked about pr.Jblems that happen,

for not having required amount of green area in the city. Tatle 6.5 shows 100%

respondents thought the youth are deprived of spending their leisure time in " free

and open environment Therefore they become abandoned and crime would increase.

Source: held Survey, 2002

Type of affect R" ondCllly" No

No. % No. %Increase of juven i Ie delinquency and crime 300 100 0 0Increase of physiological endangerment 108 36 In "IncrCale of dependency on indoor recreation '00 66.66 100 33.34(TV, computer)

Increase of disease and death 177 59 123 <I

People suffer from monotony 220 73.34 '0 26,66.

Table 6.5: Type of affect due to lack of required green space in lhe city,

In checking delinquency of young and adult crime, there is consi<:lerable evidence in

favor of recreation. Studies, research and clinical investigalion ;upport the

connection that where juvenile delinquency exists and organized recreation isinStalled, delinquency rates often drop.

Large number of re~pondellts (73.33%) think that due to scarcity of enough park in

the city people become bored and life becomes monotonous, This is because natural

areas promote livability and vitality of communities, recreational opportunities. good

air and water quality and scenie beauty.

About 66,66% responden.ts support scarcity of convenient park in the city would

incre~se dependency on indoor recreation like TV, computer etc. Encroachment and

lack of proper atlention lorce to diminish eXIsting green and open lands in and

around the city. So people have very little to do after retuming ho:ue.

T~blc also shows that significant rcspondcnts support the fast thai absence of enough

green parks in the city would result in diseases, death dnd psychological

endangermcnt. This is because at prescnt people in Dhaka liv~ within harsh and

rough texture of buildings where thcy do not have enough facilities for rclaxation,

89

Chapter 7: Conclusion

7.1 Conclusion

The main purpose of this research has been to draw up the n,)ce~s;ty of pal':"s in

urban areas particularly in a densely developed city like Dhaka and how they

contribute to heallhy and safe living. Beside this from the perspective of users and

nonusers the existing problems in the parks that prevent visitors visit has been also

examined.

The ~ludy provides useful in[ormaticm about demaod of parks in the city and their

needs in urban living. It also provides infonnation about needs of park visitors; this

can be used by planners for further development and in designing a hetter city.

In urban areas parks are very essential for urban dwelle~_ Pa,.ks serves basically

three functions. They

• Meet positive human needs both physic'llly and psychQlogically in

recreation, amenities

• Enhance and protect [he resource base air, water, soil plants. and in tum

animals.

• Effect economic development deciSlOlJ like tourism, devdopment, pol!ution,

real estate values etc.

Due to rapid urbanization in cities like Dhaka urban areas experience increasing sign

of environmental stress. "Inererore the presence of parks and green spaces has the

potentia! to mitigate the adverse effects of urbanization in a sustainable way. Every

one \vho lives in a city is affected, even indirectly by the presence of parks.

About 291 acres open space for park and play ground was pro)Josed in the Master

Plan of 1959, but 10 % of this proposed park and playground w<)u!dnot be possibk

to implemented. Moreover with the expansion of city many existing parks and

90

playgrounds haw already disappeared by encroachment of public and prj....lItebodies.

Though many of the parks within the cily have gone out of (lC citizenry there arc

still some green spaces that provide the people with some much needed rehef from a

monotonous life and barrier outlook At present responsibility cf all open and green

space goes to PWD, Dec, and Forestry Department, but due to lack of proper

attention of the responsible authority physical condition of these few parks andgardens is very poor.

In most of the cases essential facilities like toilets, light, bench, walkways are rarely

designed in these parks. Most of the parks particularly under DeC the plantation i~

not organized and are less maintained. Pollution problems Jik~ noise and bus gase,.

arc found at almost all parks for their location. Besides, presence of hijaeker~"

muggers and sex workers is also a big problem there. Lack of mordinalion between

different agencies is also found a> a major problem.

Exact statistics appear to be lucking but it is clear that a suhtantial depletion .}f

greenery in thc city has taken place. Furthermore, lack of ilroper maintenance

enforce the purks appear to be unutilized or under utililed,

Therefore people of this mega city are deprived of their civic facilities_ People in

past were confused about the need of a park and ill afford to pay for such luxuries,

Btl! today they arc more a"are that parks, open space lakes, garden~, arc the

breathing space of the city, Thesc places provide city dwellero with resort duringtheir leisure hours.

Thus planning for open spaces (lake, park, garden playground etc.) expresses the

standard of progress and attitude to living and enhance physical a~ well as human

environment. In our country it is found that once and for all time a plan which is

static in nature is prepared. Although 5 yearly reVIews arc lllowed for, rathc]

91

optimistically as it happened, it is a process incapahle of adjustment to changing

events. It could only be amended in fits and starts. But ;lIaoning should becontinuative.

It should not be presented as a final definite treatment; it should be abk to fore~ee

and to guide. It should be adaptable 10 permit review, modifkallOn and revision,

Though it is difficult but as planning concerned aboutlhe future it should be always

wise to look ahead.

7.2 Summary of the findings

(I) Most of the city park visitors are men. They arc 16-30 and 31-45 age groups.

Students and office goers are largely found in Clly parb and most of them havemasters.

(2) Among the city parks, visitors from different distances come 10visit Ramna Park

and Zia Uddayan. Most of the visitors cover 1-2 mile distance Dld use rickshaws as

a mode of travel. Significant number visits on foot. Significant number of visitors

also covers 2-4 mile distance and use taxi as a mode of traveL

(3) Most of the city park vi~itors to Ramna, and Zia Uddayan stay 1-2 hours. They

come for recreation and ecercisc. But most of thc visitors in Sohrawardy Uddayan

stay less than I hour in the park and come to spend leisure time.

(4) Most of the medium size park visitors are men and 31-45 age gmup~. Large

number of businessmen (Gulislan Park, Hazaribagh Park) and students (Anwara

Uddayan) visitors are found in this type park. Visitors of Victoria Park and

Dhanmondi Lake side Park are different in terms of occupation and level ofeducation.

92

(5) Majority of medium size park visItors covers less thaI' 1 mile distance and

travel on foot. Recreation gets less importance in this type park because of their poor

condition. Most of these type park visitors come to play and spend their lcisur~ time.

(6) Women visitors largely use special purpose parks. Majority of special purpose

park visitors are housewives and students. And most of them j;ave masters. Most of

the special purpose park visitors visit for recreation.

(7) Most of the visitors to small local park are men, They are under 16-30and 46-60-

age groups. Almost all the local park visitors travel less than I mile distance and

travel on fool. They stay Jess than 1 hour in the park and come I,) play Of walk.

(R) General public arc too much aware of thei, living environment. Because Dhaka

is now the fast urbanized, polluted and densdy populat('d city. Most of the

respondents agree to the fact that Dhaka city needs more parks for the followingreason

• To increase recreational opportunities,

• For physical and mental well being.

• To reduce air and noise polllItion.

(9) Three t)'Jles of problem are found in almost all parks. Among them

organizational problem is the worst. Considerable concern is expressed at lack of

security, lack of maintenance and presence of anti-social elements. Among physical

problem absence of bench, shelter, plam evident.

(10) For better use of parks most of the respondents suggest the following steps

• To ensure secUl.ity.

• To provide essential and improved facilities like sufficicnllight, supply of

pure drinking water, enough and dean toilets, enough seating arrangement

and shelter, other attractive items such as new rides, wall paiming etc.

• Appointment of sincere guard and routine check abo can improve the

condition and can increase use.

93

(11) Due (0 absence of required amount of green space in the city majority of the

respondents think that city dwellers would face the following prohlems

• Youth would become abandoned and crime would incrca;c.

• Number of diseases and death would increase.

• Lives would become boring and monotonous.

• Finally p~ychological endangerment obviously would increa.>e.

7.3 Some Proposals for Future

1) To ensure park planning as 3 system positively related to other planning

City planning is concerned with many separate btl! related elements such as

transportation, housing, recreation, etc. TIle purpose of a city planning should be the

attainment of well-being of the community. Therefore considering Dhaka's present

environmental quality and growing awareness of general public preservation and

planning for parks should be accepted as a major part 0[' the total urban development

and planning process. For this purpose useful data should bc gaiJlercd on population

characteristics, economic activitics, and regource capabihties as giving importan~e in

the planning of transportation or industrial location as for open space ill thc form ofparks.

2) To ensure renovation of the existing parks

According to DMDP Dhaka has a fair representation of parks ar,d gal'dcn~ ttough

urguably not enough. 111\1sdifferent sizcs of parks in the city that still exist nced tobc renovated.

During the last few years SOhrawardy Uddayan which is also considcred as "lungs"

of the city has become complete useless. Bm one can compare this city park with

many other famous parks of the world. Therefore, this Uddayan could be renovated.

Contiguously by appointing adviger different large and medium size parks should be

decorated as attractive as "Santosha" in Singapore or as "Mini incionesia" in Jakarta.

By tllis way urban environmental quality could be improved, recreational facilities

94

could be increased and opportunity for general public to spend t~,eir leisure would begenerated.

3) To ensure multi use

Localities which have no park need to be allowed for multi-use, for example, field~

and open spaces of different institution, government quartelS and governmcm

organizations like police; BDR, amly etc. need to have accessibility to the general

public. These spaces should be particularly ,lCceSSlble to the children and youth of

the community at least for particular time of the day and weekends on the basis ofsome sharing.

4) To stop encroachment by government control

To keep unoccupied und well maintained existing parks government control is

necessary. To stop encroachment, punishment and fine could be a good process,

From the investigation it is clear that more or less most of t~e existing parks in

Dhaka city have become the target of encroachers.

Therefore demolition of all illegal structures in the park (commissioner bh".ban,

garage(Sikkatu]i park) , Vvlltcrpump(Kolabagan children park), commllnity center

(Hazarihagh park), wholesale vegetahle market(Azimpur park) cte. immediately

necd 10 return these parh usefulness. Besides, proper maint~nance of eX;,ling

facilities are also essential to put them in usc.

5) To encourage public participation

To improve the quality of urban environment, public and the government should act

equally. Public are more aware today for their living environment. Thus with

awareness their panicipation is also needed to preserve and to maintain physical

resources in their OVvTIlocality. For example in 200] large numher people who use

Osmani Uddayan and re,ide near the Uddayan strongly protest and stop its

encroachment.

95

6) To enSUre trllllsparclIC) and accouotability

Every year DeC allocate a budget for vanous development activities (see to

Appendix), for park development a good amount is al~o found. Thus expenditure of

this budget about park development must be transparent and accountable,

7) To encourage private sector:

Private sector needs to encourage and invest their fund to establish new park>, own

and develop some of those existing old parb that government fail to rUII, such as

Wonderland ,Shishu Meta, For this purpose, govenuncnl bodies need to facilitate

them easy loun, limiled tax, other facilities under SOme condition that "Quid mah

this opportunity available and accessible for middle and lower ellss.

Entrance fee should be fixed at the entrance of maximum parks, and thus in one side

fund eould be raised and other side entrance of beggar, prOSlitu',~scould be checked.

For ele<mliness and protection of parks fine should be fixed, and thus fund could be

raised and public would use park properly without doing any unrleasanl activities.

8) To implement various proposed propo~al

DMDP has many/proposals to preserve and (0 proteet existing apen spaces of the

city, this thesis also restales the same propo~als in order to increase the eurrent

slock of open spaces in Dhaka City[Dhaka Struetur~ Plan, Vol.], 84-86 Vol-2,1995:46,49,50,53,55]

• Relocation of Hazaribagh tannery area would pro,-ide a substanlJal area for

urban development and help to improve the environment.

• To provide land which is needed for open space and parks III VCf) high

density old Dhaka Central Jail should be relocated.

• Thc BDR HQ restricted area ean potentially provide a substantial area of,centrally located urban land that could site [or a variety uf more intense und

productive urban uses.

96

• Development of Dhanmondi Lake is a master piece, Begunbari Khal should

be developed in a sirnilur way to prevent development encroachment and

increase the limited open and green space and recreation in the city.

• The Graveyard for Martyred Intellectuals and Sahid Minar provides scope

for development as a site of national impOltance and to preserve greenery,

9) To ensure clear agency responsibility

The mo~t serious problem with the management of parks i~lack of clear agency

responsibility for the maintenance and development of these S!!iICCS. There is no co-

ordination among the activities of responsible organizations, nor is there any

concrete policy in any of development and maintenance, It was noticed in the pust

tlJat trees were planted by one agency, on the other hand, were cut dovm hy another

agency, for development work.

,It is suggested that the Dhaka Municipality should have a separate departmc."t for

the maintenance and development of open spaces and parb in the city. This

department should coordinate agencies rcsponsibJlity for different type<; of open

spaces in the city. If possible all the parks in the city should j'e brought under the

supervision and control of this department. For example in United States there are

different park boards, park department. Where ever possible, this depanmenl should

work through cooperative organizations with private orgaaizations, clubs and

societies to operate existing and new recreational spaces.

Therefore planning for parks must be integrated with <Illother land u~e, economic,

and transportation planning rather taken as a single function. Park planning has been

limited in its focus and its functions have rested at the bottom of the list of land usc

elements, with the funds and the lands relegated from the remainders of other

aeti\'ilies. Open space and parks should not neeessari Iy receive CIle son of pliodty or

another, hut rather should be planned and programmed in conjunction with other

functions and purpose. Thus tllls will greatly help to give reCreation facilities and

also help to improve over all environmental quality of Dhaka cit).

97

BIBLOGRAPHY

Ahmed, Saima. (1994). Child Recreation Facilities And The 13cilavi",al Pallem- A CaseStudy of The Middle Income Group in Dhaka City, Master of Geography, UnpublishedThesis, Dhaka University.

Abedin, Md. JainaL (1974). Our Cities and Towns.

Alam, Sarker Mahbub UI. (1999) .• Dhaka Mohanagar biponnaya prakitic paribesh n tarHUaran"l The distressed natural environment or Dhaka Metropolis and its development]'Paper published in the Proceeding for the Seminar" Cities ro'r all" On the World HabitatDay, organized by RAJUK and the Housing and Building Research Illstitute, DhakaBangladesh.

Aabrams, Charles. (1971). "The Language ofCilies-AGlossary of Term,", New York:The Viking Press.

Ally, sabeha (1980). Urban recreation needs in planning for residential neighborhood: anapproach towards a planned development, a case study on some sele~!ed neighborhoodsof Dhaka city, Dhaka: BUET.

Asian Economic News. 2001. "Air pollution kills 15,000 people a yefr in Bangladesh"

Bangladesh Studies Pollution Levels. JAEA (International Atomic Energy Agcr.cy)Newsbriefs. Vol. 11,1\0, 4 (73); N()v-Dce 1996: 11.

Banglades National Report: Progress of implcmentation of th~ Habita! Agenda,1996-2001, linloeking, the Potential, National Stralegy for Ac~elcraled PovertyReduction Government of the Pcople's Republic of Bangladeshhttp://banglapedia.search.com.bd!

Bangladesh Population Census 1991, Urban Area Report

Bangladesh National Report: Progress of implementation of the Habitat Agenda (1996-2001) Government of the People's Republic of Bangladeshhttp://banglapedia.search.eom.bdl

BBS. 1998, Statistical Yearbook of Bangladesh 1997. Bureau of Statistics, Minstry ofPlanning, Government: Bangladesh.

BBS, 1999, Population Census 2001, Preliminary Repor, Bangladesh Bureau ofStalistics, Ministry of Planning.

BBS, 2001, Population Census 2001, Preliminary Rcpor, BangLldesh Bureau ofStatistics, Ministry of Planning.

os

BBS. (2001), Statistical Yearbook ofBangla<iesn 2001 Minslry ofPbnning, GovernmentorThe Peoples Republic of Bangladesh, Dhaka.

Begum, A.1999, "Deslination Dhaka_ Urban Migration, Expectations and Reality,"University Press Limited, December 1999.Burton, Thoma>. L. (1971), Experiments in ReCreation Research.London: George Allenand Unwin Ltd.

Christiansen, Monty L (1985). Park Planning Hand 8oak, Macmillian PublishingCompany, New York, Collier Macmillan Puhlishiners, London 10.

Dhaka Structure Plan, Volume 1 &11 [1995] Dhaka Metropolitan Development Plan[1995-20B]. Dhaka.

David Drescher, and Wills, Paulette Franco. (2001). Assessing Park:; Deficiency in anUrban Environmenl.htm

Dey, Amit Ranjan. Kabir, Naween and Efroymson, Debra. 2002 . Noise Pollution inDhaka: Current Situation and Suggestions for Action. http://wbb.glob.llink.org

Dhaka City Corporation, 2002-2003, Budget Book, Fiscal Year, 2002-2003 NagarBhaban, Dhaka.

GOB 1999: GOB 1997 Banglade,'h Campendium of Environment SW'i.\'tics, 13angla(kshBureau of Stallstics, Dhaka, as eited in Unnayan Shamannay, Poop/e's Reporr OnBangladesh Enwranmen! 2001, Volume ll, Da/abase (The Univers:ty Press Limited,Dhaka, 2001).

Gordon, D. (1990). Green Cities, Montreal, Canada :Black Rose Booh.

Goodman, A. B. and Eisner, S. (l968). Principles and Practice of Urban PlanningWashington D,C International City Manager Association.

Gallion, A.B and Eisner, S. (1963). The Urban Pattcrn: City Planning and Design NewYork; Van Nostrand Reinhold Co.

Huq, S.M,M. (1991-92), Outdoor recreation by Dhaka eity dwellers; and empiricalstudies and implication for the future urban development planning and policy. A researchproject. Dhaka: Jahangirnagar University.

lslam, Nazrul. (l992).Urbani7ation in Bangladesh: Recent Trend. Edited Nazrlll Islamand Sirnjul Islam, Dhaka University.

,,';

99

Islam, Nazrul. (1996). Dhaka from City to Mega city, Dhaka; Urban ';tudies Programme,Department of Geography, Dhaka University,

LH, seeley. (1973), Outdoor Recreation and the Urban EnvirolLnenL London andBasinstoke: The Macmillan press.

Karim, AbduL (1962).1Jistory of Bengal, Mughal Period (1).

Khaliqunaman M. Objectives, structures and expected follow-up. Paper prescneled atthe Consultative Meeting on Integrated approach to vehicular air pollution contwl inDhaka held between April 26-27, 1998 jointly by World Bank and Department ofEnvironment, Government of Bangladesh.

Koppelman, Lee & Chiara, Joseph De. (1969). Urban Planning and Design Criteria, I"edition, Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York.

Koppelman, Lee & Chiara, Joseph De. (1975). Urban Planning and Design Criteria, 2ndedition, Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York.

LambethDev.Plan (1975). Reereation and Leisure, London: 130rough"C lambeth,

Lancaster, R.A. (Ed.). (1990). Recreation, Park, and Open Space Standards andGuidelines. Ashburn, VA: National Recreation and Park Association.

Lauriw, 1.C. (1979). Nature in Cities. Chichester, Great Britain: John Wiley and Sons.

Lohman, K.B. (1931). Principles of City Planning,New York: McGraw-Hill Book Co.Inc.

Lsdermann, A. and Trachsel, A. (1968).Creative Playgrounds and Recl"etion Centres,

New York: Frederick A. Praeger, Publishers.

Mahbub,Un-Nabi,A.S.M. (1978). Study of Open Space in Dacca City. V1URPDissertation, 8UET, Dhaka.

Movnihan, Daniel P.ed. (1970). Urban America: The Expert Look at Ihe City.

National Recreation and Park Association 1983, Recreation, Park and Open SpaceStandards and Guidelines. Ed. R. Lancaster.

Nature Conservancy Council 1987. Planning for wildlife m metropolitan areas.Peterborough, Great Britain: Nature Conservancy CounciL

Nilufar, Farida. 1999. Urban life and use of pub lie open spaces for supporting UrbarLlifein Dhaka City, unpublished report submitted 10Asiatic Society.

100

Rahman, Ra"iur. 2001. "Dhaka City - An Environmental Repolthltp:/lwv-w. banglarights.netlHTMLlEnvirOllment.htm

Rllngv,'alla,S.C; K.S. and P. S. (1974). Town Planning, Cha,.acl~r publishing house,India.

RoberlS, Margaret (1974). An introduction to Town Planning Tcchr.Lques, Hutchison ofLondon.

Rutledge, AJ. (1971). Anatomy of a Park, The Essential of Rccrcalio'l Area Planning andDesign.New York: Me Graw-ill Book Co.

Siddiqui, M.M.R. (1990). ReCreational facilities in Dhaka city: a study of existing parksand open spaces. MURP Thesis. Dhaka: BUET.

Siddiqui, Kamal et.al. 1991. Social formation in Dhaka City. _A Study in Third WorldUrban Sociely. Dhaka: University Press Limited.

United Nations (1998), United Nations World Urbanizalian Prospecls" The 199CRevisian, United Nations, New York, NY.

Unnayan Shamannay, People's Repmt on Bangladesh Environment ZOOI, Volume JI,Database (The University Press Limited, Dhaka, 2001).

Vandervoort, Frances, 1991. Grecn Space in the City, Woodrow Wilson BiologyInstitute

Whitaker, B. and Browne, K. (1973). Parks for people. USA:Wincheiier Press.

APPENDIX A: Questionnaire Survey

BANGLADESH UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGYDlL\KA

Department of Urban and Regional Planning

Parkl; in the urban environment an analytical study with reference to urban parksof Dhaka

(User and Nonuser)

NAme oflhe spot: Date: Sample no:

A. Personal/Demographic information:

I. Sex (a) Male (Il) Female

2, A ge-- " • • _

3. Marital status

4 Occupation

(a) Married

(a) Service

(b) Unmarried

(b) Business (c) Hou"e wife

(d)Studenl (f) Other (retired unemployt<l elc,)

5. I."vel of education (a) Primary (Il) sse (e) HSe (d) B, degree

(c) M. degree (f) other

fl. Geographic infonnation

I, Where are you coming from? (a) Wilhi" Dhaka (Il) Out of Dhaka

2. Is there any open space in the form of parks or play grounds in your locality or

community within Y,milc?

3, [ryes what type

(a) Yes

(a) Park

(b) No

(b) Play ground (e) Both

4. Do you use your local park

5. jfycs how freqUCnlly (a) Daily

(a) Yes

(b) Weekly

(b) No

(clOccasionally

6, Ifno, why? (a) Lack of lime(c) Lack of security(e) Othe,

(b) POQrmainlenJ.lce(d) Distantly local~d

7, Do your family members spend their leisurc time in the park?

(a) Yes

8. If yes is it daily? (a) Yes

9. How long? (a) i/2 an hour

C. Purpose of use:

(b) No

(b) No

(b) 1 hour (cl More than I hour

I, Do you live in a (al House (b) Flat (e) Other

2. Do you have a garden in your house

3. Why do }OU comc to this particular park?

(a) Yes (b) No

(a) Big park (b) Closer to my house (c) Weli IT.aintained

(d) No other parks near my house (e) EnjQying naturai beauty

(I)Planned park

(i) Other

(g) Good transport facility (h) I3rcathing fresh air

4, The activities for which you visit parks

{a)Enjoy the cnvironment(b)To walk(e) To exercise(d) For picnic(e) To play games(I) To spend leisure lime

(g)To escape from drudgery of every day life

D. Time duration and fre<juencyof use:

I. Give approximate number ofvisi(s to this park per month

(a) 0-1 (b) 2-5 (c) 6-10 (d) Morelhan ][)

2, Give approximate number of visits to all parks in Dhaka per month(a)[)-l (b) 2-5 (c)6-l0 (d) More than 10

3. Give prohable length of stay.

(a)Lessthanlhour (b)I-2hour {e)V,day

E. Cost:

I. Give approximate distances covered from home to park.

(d) All day

(a) Less than I mile (b) 1-2 mile (e) 2-4 mile (d) More than 4 mile

2. How much time do you need to eome 10this park?

(a) Less than 15 minutes

3. What is your travel eost?

(b) 15-30 min, (e) 1 Hour (d) More than 1 hour

(al No cost (b) 2 laka (e)Staka (d)Abovel0tah.

4. How did you travel to lhe park?

(a) Car

F. Problems:

(b) Bus (cl Foot (d) Other

1. State reasons that prevents you from visiting thc park.

Physieal Problems:

a) Small size

(d) Other

(b) Absence of plant (c) Abscnce ofbeneh and shelter

Environmental Problems:

••

(a) Noisy (b) Over crowded

'"

(c) High level pollution

(d) Other

Problems of Organization:

(a) Lack of proper maintenance(b) Lack of essential facilities [drinking water, toilet, etc.](c) No sccurity(d) Presence of unwanted people / anti- social clements.

G. Opinion:

1. Do you think the prcsent provision of parks is enough?

(a) Yes (b) No

2. Do you think there should be more parks in a city like Dhaka?

\\ihy------"----- _

Where----------- " _

3. Do you support to visit to park?

(a) Yes

4. If yes than why?

(a) For recreation

(d) Other

5, How frequently~

(b) No

(b) For time pass (c) For openness and fre,h breathing

(a) Everyday (b)Afteroneweek (c) After one month (d) Other

6. What do you suggest for the improvement and better use f parks?

--------------------------------------------.----------"------------------------------------------------------._----------------------------._--------"-----------------------------------------------------------------------._-------"--------------------------------------------------------------"----------------------._----

7. Do you think absent of enough parks Canaffect cily dwellers?

(a) Yes

8. If yes, what type Slale

(b) No

,-------------_ .._----------_.- .._---------------------------._._----------------- ------------._----------------------._----------------------------._------------------------------._------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------._-------------------

APPENDIX B: TABLES

Accepted noise limits (in decibels) and current noise situation in Dhaka

Table 1: NOise Quality Standards, by Zone and Time of Day

Limit, in dBaZone Clas, Da)1imo Nighltlme

(6 a.m. 9 ,m.) (9 ,m,-6 a.~-,Sllcnt zone " ;;Residential zone '" "Mixed (residealiall '" '"commorciollindu,l~al) '.(laoCommercial zone '" ,"Indu'lrial zone " '".\"o"":e, Unnay"n ShamanMy. People's Hepar! 0" B~"gl~desh t",'i,O"m,,,, 200!,

Volum, II, IJala/:=" (Tho University Pre" Llm;tcd, Dhaka, 21101).

Table 2: Measured Noise Levels In Some Sensilwe Areas of Dhaka

Location (outside the facility)

Shaheen ,choolMotljheel Govl, high schoolDhanmondi GoV!, boys high ,choolAzimpuf girl, collegeTejg:lon Women.s collegeP.G. ho,pit.1Dhaka medical C<Jllegeho'p;lalMilford hQ'pitalChildren hQspilal

Sou,ce: GOll 1999, GOB 1997 Rangladesh Camp"nul"m of EJ1Vlr(mm"r.!.\"ladSl!CS,Bangladesll ll"","u of S[atistie.,.Dhaka, :I' oil<d in unnayan ~h:lm"nnay, Peop!e'" Repo'[ on fJa"g!ad,,,h I';nvi'onm,'" ]001, VO!um, I!. Dal~base (Th,lJnlve"ily Pres, Limited. lJhak,,, 200 I),

Table 3' DCC, budget at a glnee lor park, Year 2002-2003Figure, are in COOTe Taka (I Coore~ 10 million)Source: DCC

Descriplion Orgmal Budget Revised Budget Budget Allocation2001.2002 2001.2007 2001_2002

Park Devlopment 0.90 0.25 0,50

Cenlral Children 0.40 0.15 0,30Park Devlopmenl

Olncr Park 0.50 0.10De\'lopment 0,20

APPENDIX C: PHOTOGRAPHS

Osmani Uddayan has already turned into encroacher's haven,

Pond inside Osmani Uddayan is never cleaned or weUmaintained,

Osmani Uddayan has already mmed into encroacher's haven.

The entire place inside OSllllUliUddayan is very diry

Sohrawardy Uddayan is a fantastic place for sex workers

Hazaribagh Park exist lISa vaclllrt land

•

,1Uega!encroachment inside Sikbtuli Park

Sillatuli Park IllS renovated.