Mirpur, often regarded as a distinct entity within Dhaka, has long been recognized for its bustling crowds and dynamic characteristics. Mirpur was primarily known for its garment factories, and it had a reputation for being a rough area with bad roads, dirty paths, old buses, and many slums where clothing factory workers lived. It was considered a poor neighborhood with plain-looking houses. However, the area has undergone significant changes in recent times. Today, Mirpur is equipped to meet virtually any need one might have. From daily necessities to specialized services, Mirpur offers a comprehensive range of facilities and resources.
In the north of Mirpur, there are Shah Ali Police Station and Pallabi Police Station. To the south of Mirpur, you will find Tejgaon Police Station and Dar-us-Salam Police Station. To the east of Mirpur, there are Kafrul Police Station and a part of Pallabi Police Station. To the west of Mirpur, there are Shah Ali Police Station, Dar-us-Salam Police Station, and Savar Upazila.
Connectivity.
Mirpur covers an area of 58.66 square kilometers and includes more than 1,40,000 households and approximately 550,000 people live there. The areas within Mirpur include Mirpur Cantonment, Mirpur DOHS, Kazipara, Sheorapara, Senpara Parbata, Shialbari, and the sections 1, 2, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, Pallabi, 12, 13, and 14. According to the 2022 Population and Housing Census national report, the total population of Mirpur, including Darussalam, Kafrul, Pallabi, and Shaha Ali Thana, exceeds 1.8 million people.
Quality of life
Choosing to live in Mirpur is a practical decision for many, thanks to its blend of affordability and convenience. The area offers a range of housing options that are generally more budget-friendly compared to other parts of Dhaka. For families, Mirpur is particularly appealing due to its good schools and reliable healthcare facilities, ensuring that education and health are well taken care of. Daily necessities are easily accessible; from local markets to supermarkets, everything you need is just a short walk or ride away. Additionally, the community in Mirpur is vibrant and diverse, providing a supportive environment for new residents. Transport connections are robust too, with numerous bus routes and auto-rickshaws making it easy to get around and connect to other parts of the city. All these factors make Mirpur a practical choice for those looking for a balanced urban lifestyle without the excessive costs often found in more central areas. Mirpur is experiencing a dynamic transformation, reflecting its ongoing growth and the evolving quality of life for its residents. However, like many rapidly developing areas, Mirpur faces a mix of challenges alongside its achievements.
Amenities and Infrastructure
Amenities and Infrastructure
Mirpur is a hub for Dhaka’s thriving garment industry. Around 235 small and medium-sized garment manufacturing units are located here, providing employment to a large segment of the population. This employment is crucial as it helps many families secure a stable income, thereby improving their standard of living, although it also brings challenges such as labor issues and industrial pollution. The presence of these factories also stimulates local businesses that cater to the workers, such as food vendors, transportation services, and local markets. With the influx of wages from garment workers, there is more disposable income circulating within the community. This economic activity can lead to improved infrastructure and services as businesses grow and municipal revenues increase.
Markets and Shopping:
Mirpur in Dhaka is a prime shopping destination, offering a wide array of options from popular clothing brands to bustling local markets. Shoppers can find everything from affordable local styles to international brands. The area boasts branches of well-known brands such as Twelve Clothing, Infinity, Aarong, Sailor, Shajgoj, SaRa Lifestyle, Yellow, Deshal, Artisan, Bata, Apex, Bay, and Top Ten. Additionally, Mirpur features several shopping malls that provide a variety of shopping and entertainment options Like Mirpur Shopping Center, Mirpur DOHS Shopping Complex, Rongdhonu Shopping Complex, Mirpur New Market, F S Square, Hope Plaza, Wholesalebd.Net Limited, Mirpur City Center etc. For those looking for budget-friendly shopping, Mirpur Hope Market is a popular choice, known for its cheap and cheerful goods. This mix of high-end stores and value markets makes Mirpur a vibrant shopping hub catering to all needs and preferences.
Benaroshi Palli in Mirpur 10 is a renowned marketplace famous for its exquisite collection of Benarasi sarees, which are a staple for Bangladeshi brides. This special market area has a rich history, tracing back to when skilled weavers from the Indian subcontinent brought their craft to Bangladesh. Over the years, Benaroshi Palli has grown into a vibrant hub where visitors can find a wide range of sarees, from traditional designs to modern interpretations, all showcasing the intricate artistry of Benarasi weaving.
Safety and Security
Safety varies by block and time of day. Some areas are considered relatively safe with active community policing and regular patrols. However, like many densely populated urban districts, some parts of Mirpur can experience higher crime rates, especially petty crimes such as pickpocketing and street theft. Residents typically take precautions and remain vigilant, especially after dark.
Connectivity and Transportation
Dhaka Metro MRT- Line 6
The Dhaka Metro Rail, specifically the MRT Line-6, significantly enhances Mirpur's connectivity with other parts of Dhaka. This line connects Uttara in the north to Motijheel in the city's heart, passing through Mirpur. Mirpur is centrally located in the Metro network. It has five Metro stations, stretching from Shewra Para to Pallabi. This makes it easy for Mirpur’s residents to travel both ways using the Metro, making the hassles faced during construction worth it. The MRT-6 has substantially eased commuting times and improved accessibility, making it easier for residents to travel efficiently across Dhaka.
The Metro rail authorities are currently planning an extension of the Mass Rapid Transit Line-6, which will extend northward from Uttara to Tongi. The proposed expansion will include the establishment of five new stations: Diabari Bazar, Sonargaon Janapath Road West, Sonargaon Janapath Road East, Tongi Bazar, and Tongi Railway Station.
Dhaka Metro MRT- Line 5:
Scheduled to commence construction in July 2024, the MRT Line-5 is set to significantly enhance Mirpur's connectivity by linking it directly with Hemayetpur and Bhatara. This new metro line will traverse several key points starting at Hemayetpur and stretching to Vatara, thereby knitting together various urban and suburban areas through a sophisticated transit network.
Detailed Route and Infrastructure
The MRT Line-5 will begin its route from Hemayetpur, moving through Boliarpur, Bilamalia, and Amin Bazar before reaching Gabtoli. This stretch will connect several outskirts and entry points into the city directly to Mirpur. From Gabtoli, the line will enter the heart of Mirpur, stopping at several strategic points including Mirpur 1, Mirpur 10, and Mirpur 14, before proceeding to Kachukhet. This will provide residents of Mirpur unparalleled access to both the northern and southern zones of Dhaka.
Continuing its journey, the metro will head towards Banani, passing through elite areas such as Gulshan 2 and Natun Bazar, and finally terminating at Vatara. This route ensures that residents along this line, particularly in Mirpur, benefit from direct and fast connections to both commercial hubs and quieter suburban areas.
Road and Bus Services:
Gabtoli, positioned right beside Mirpur, serves as a crucial gateway for inter-city travel. This allows residents of Mirpur easy access to bus services that connect to various parts of the country, making it highly convenient for long-distance travel. Residents of Mirpur benefit from direct bus routes to many significant areas within Dhaka city. These include Motijheel, Farmgate, Shahbagh, Dhaka University, Savar, Dhanmondi, Banani, Select areas of Dhaka Cantonment, Gazipur, Hazrat Shah Jalal International Airport, and other upscale areas of Dhaka as well.
In addition to bus services, Mirpur is served by a variety of local transport options that include auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and ride-sharing services. These modes of transport are readily available and provide flexible, cost-effective options for navigating the neighborhood and surrounding areas. They are particularly useful for short trips and last-mile connectivity, complementing the bus routes to provide comprehensive transportation solutions for the residents of Mirpur.
Education:
Mirpur is a key educational hub in Dhaka, boasting a wide range of reputable institutions that cater to different levels of education, from primary to higher secondary and beyond. Among the notable schools and colleges in the area are Monipur High School And College, which is so popular that it has established multiple branches across Mirpur.
Other significant educational institutions include Scholastica, known for its high academic standards; South Point School and College, which offers a robust curriculum; and Mirpur Cantonment Public School and College, admired for its disciplined environment and strong educational foundation. Additionally, Dhaka Commerce College is a preferred choice for students pursuing commerce-related studies.
Mirpur also is home to several specialized higher education institutions that attract students from across the nation. These include the Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), which offers advanced degrees in various professional fields; the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), renowned for its engineering and technological programs; BSMR Maritime University, Bangladesh, unique for its focus on maritime studies; and the National Defence College, which provides strategic defense education.
This diverse range of educational offerings makes Mirpur a significant educational center in Dhaka, catering to a wide array of academic preferences and career aspirations.
Healthcare:
Mirpur is well-equipped with a variety of healthcare facilities that cater to the needs of both locals and visitors from other parts of the city. When it comes to medical services, residents often prefer Alok Healthcare Center, known for its reliable care and positive reputation among the community. The Heart Foundation in Mirpur is also highly regarded, especially for its specialized cardiac care.
While Labaid is present in the area, it's worth noting that it has garnered some negative feedback from the community. Therefore, many locals tend to opt for other trusted facilities for their healthcare needs.
In addition to these, Mirpur hosts a range of other reputable healthcare institutions. Exim Healthcare Center, Medinova, CMS Hospital, Mirpur Dental College, and Ibn Sina are all well-known for their quality services. These centers are recognized for their professional staff and the comprehensive range of medical and dental services they offer, making them popular choices for healthcare in Mirpur.
Recreational Facilities:
Since its independence, Mirpur was developed to be fully independent, yet it has drawn visitors from far and wide due to its notable attractions. It started with the Bangladesh National Zoo, founded in 1974, which hosts over 2,000 animals across 165 species. It's a common destination for any child visiting Dhaka on a holiday. For those interested in green spaces, the National Botanical Garden has offered a tranquil escape since 1962.
The reputation of Mirpur rose significantly after the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium was established in 2006. Cricket being a beloved sport in the country, Mirpur quickly became well-known as a key location for the sport.
Aside from these known attractions, Mirpur boasts a variety of spots that cater to all tastes, making it a lively area to explore. For a touch of history and learning, the Taka Museum offers an insightful look into the country's currency evolution. Food lovers can revel in numerous dining options, including the popular Purnima Restaurant among many others, ensuring you’ll never run out of new dishes to try. For a peaceful stroll or a reflective moment, places like Love Road, Barribad Road, and the Eidgah are perfect. The area is also rich in religious and cultural sites, including Shah Ali Mazar, the serene Bouddho Mondir, and the vibrant Mike Wala Mosque. Shopping enthusiasts can find almost anything at Shah Ali Market and Krishi Market. For entertainment, Star Cineplex is the go-to spot for catching the latest movies. Each of these places adds a unique flavor to Mirpur, making it a diverse and engaging community to be part of.
Challenges Faced by Residents:
The constant buzz of traffic and urban activity leads to significant noise pollution, which can be a daily nuisance for many residents.
Due to heavy traffic and industrial activity, air quality often suffers, impacting the health and well-being of the community.
Although there have been improvements in Mirpur's drainage system, more work is needed. During the rainy season, some areas still experience waterlogging and related issues.
As Mirpur continues to grow, it struggles with the pressures of overpopulation, including crowded living conditions and strained public services.
The main roads often become stages for what locals call "main road drama" — a euphemism for frequent traffic jams and the general chaos that ensues from the mix of vehicles, pedestrians, and street vendors.
Despite these issues, there are areas within Mirpur where such problems are markedly less evident. Residential areas, Mirpur Cantonment, and Mirpur DOHS represent the quieter, more orderly parts of the neighborhood. These areas are well-planned and maintained, offering residents a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the busier commercial zones.
Mirpur is not just about challenges; it is also a story of positive change and beautiful transformations. The neighborhood is constantly growing, and with each passing year, it becomes more equipped to provide a better quality of life for its people. The improvements in infrastructure, the increasing attention to environmental issues, and the gradual enhancements in public services are all testament to Mirpur’s potential and commitment to betterment.
Naming
During the Mughal era, the word "Mir" was used before the names of many aristocratic people in Dhaka. It is believed that the area was part of a Mir's landholdings, which later came to be known as Mirpur.
The Mirpur area in Dhaka includes many sub-areas, each with its own unique historical background for their names. One part of Mirpur was a jungle-covered area with hills of soil, which is why that area was known as "Parbata." Another part was inhabited by Hindus carrying the surname "Sen." That area became known as Senpara or Sen Parbata. In another part of Mirpur, the Kazi family or people with the title 'Kazi' lived, hence the area was named Kazipara. Another area had many Sheora trees and thus came to be known as Sheorapara. In this way, the names of various areas in Mirpur were given based on different contexts.
Liberation of Mirpur
The Liberation of Mirpur refers to a significant event that took place on January 31, 1972, when the Bangladesh Armed Forces successfully reclaimed Mirpur Thana in Dhaka, following the end of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
Background
During the Bangladesh Liberation War, Mirpur was a stronghold for pro-Pakistan sentiments. The local Bengali population faced severe threats and attacks from pro-Pakistan Biharis. Notably, the Bengali poet Meherunnesa and her family were tragically killed by Bihari residents. Even after Bangladesh declared its independence on December 16, 1971, Mirpur Thana, predominantly inhabited by Biharis, remained under the control of pro-Pakistan paramilitary forces. These groups, including the Razakars, Al-Badr, and Al-Shams, were heavily armed by the Pakistan Army.
Events Leading to Liberation
Following the official end of the war, tensions remained as Bihari neighborhoods were initially protected by Indian Army soldiers. This protection ended on January 30, 1972, setting the stage for liberation efforts. On this day, the Bangladesh Armed Forces surrounded Mirpur, initiating operations to secure the area. Renowned Bengali filmmaker Zahir Raihan went to Mirpur in search of his missing brother but unfortunately disappeared. Intense gunfights erupted as the armed forces moved through Mirpur and nearby Mohammadpur, searching for weapons and imposing a curfew. The conflict resulted in casualties among both the Bengali refugees and the Bihari community.
The Final Battle
The final push to liberate Mirpur was led by Golam Helal Morshed Khan, commanding a mixed force of the Bangladesh Army and Police. Despite heavy resistance and significant losses—including the death of Second Lieutenant Selim Mohammad Kamrul Hasan—the Bangladeshi forces eventually succeeded. Mirpur was fully liberated after additional reinforcements arrived from other parts of Bangladesh.
Legacy
Today, January 31 is commemorated in Bangladesh as the Victory Day of Mirpur or Mirpur Mukto Dibosh. The day marks Mirpur's liberation from pro-Pakistan forces, celebrating the resilience and bravery of the Bangladeshi fighters. The events also led to the eventual execution of Abdul Quader Mollah, known as the "Butcher of Mirpur," on December 13, 2013, for his involvement in atrocities during the war.
