Merul Badda
MERUL BADDA
Established in 1998 from portions of both Cantonment Thana and Gulshan Thana, Badda is a rapidly developing neighborhood in Dhaka. This bustling locality, situated in the northeastern part of the city, has grown into a vital area of the capital with a mix of residential and commercial zones. The greater Badda region is divided into several segments, including Middle Badda, South Badda, Merul Badda, Tekpara, Sonakatra, Baithkali, and the DIT Project area, as well as the thriving Aftabnagar residential area.
Badda's strategic location near the Hatirjheel project provides seamless access to key areas like Gulshan, Niketan, Kawran Bazar, and Banglamotor, making it an appealing option for professionals and commuters. The neighborhood's charm lies in its lively atmosphere along Pragati Sarani, where numerous offices and commercial establishments are located. Despite this, Badda remains predominantly residential, offering affordable housing options that attract families and individuals alike. The ongoing development in areas like Aftabnagar and the DIT Project also make it an increasingly valuable place for real estate investment.
South Badda, in particular, stands out for its vibrant streets near the main roads and its quieter, more peaceful interior. Aftabnagar is a standout in this regard, providing a well-planned, serene living environment away from the typical hustle and bustle of Dhaka. Wide roads, organized blocks, and open spaces make this area unique, offering residents a tranquil retreat within the city.
Commercial activity is primarily concentrated along Pragati Sarani and the Gulshan-Badda Link Road. Here, one finds markets, banks, restaurants, showrooms, and brand outlets. The inner parts of Badda, however, remain largely residential, characterized by a mix of long-standing communities and newer housing projects. Among these, Aftabnagar is particularly sought after due to its calm surroundings and increasing property values.
Public transportation in Badda is well-developed, with multiple options available for daily commuters. The Hatirjheel Circular Bus Service connects the area to various parts of Dhaka, while local bus routes and rickshaws ensure easy travel for shorter distances. For a unique experience, residents can also take advantage of the Hatirjheel Water Taxi Service, which links the area to Gulshan Lake. With the upcoming Dhaka Metro Rail project’s Airport Rail Link (MRT Line - 1), accessibility to Badda is expected to improve even further.
Though Badda might not be known for upscale dining, its vibrant streets are filled with eateries offering authentic Bengali cuisine and diverse South Asian flavors. This balance of convenience, affordability, and ongoing development continues to draw more people to the area, making Badda a dynamic part of Dhaka’s urban landscape.
City Insights
Badda is a suburban area that was formed by merging parts of Gulshan and Cantonment thanas.
It offers a balanced city life with a mix of commercial zones and residential communities.
The area hosts several prestigious educational institutions in the Dhaka division.
There are ample recreational and entertainment opportunities available for residents.
Badda has well-developed transportation and communication networks.
The neighborhood is equipped with good healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals.
Various religious institutions, such as mosques and temples, cater to the area’s diverse community.
Connectivity
🚌 Bus Routes:
Merul Badda - Kuril Bishwa Road
Merul Badda - Abdullahpur
Uttar Badda - Demra Staff Quarter
Uttar Badda - Tongi
Shanti Nagar - Merul Badda
Savar - Badda Link Road
Mirpur 1 - Madhya Badda
🚍 Additional Routes Connecting North Badda:
Gulshan, Mohakhali, Baridhara, Banani
Tejgaon, Panthapath, Azimpur
Rampura, Malibagh, Motijheel
Moghbazar, Banglamotor, Khamarbari
Mirpur, Lalmatia, Mohammadpur
Airport Road, Uttara
🚆 Nearest Train Stations:
Dhaka Cantonment Railway Station
Banani Railway Station
🚇 Metro Rail Service
North Badda will soon be connected by the MRT Line-1 (Airport Rail Link) as part of the Dhaka Metro project. Expected to be completed by 2026, this development will offer a fast and convenient travel option, greatly improving connectivity to and from Badda.
Privileges of Living in Badda
The area is home to mosques, temples, and churches, creating a diverse and inclusive community for people of different faiths.
Proximity to major corporate hubs like Gulshan and Baridhara makes Badda a convenient choice for professionals seeking easy commutes.
Badda offers more affordable real estate options compared to other parts of Dhaka, presenting promising investment opportunities.
The neighborhood's well-planned roads and sidewalks highlight its superior infrastructure.
Residents enjoy a wide range of lifestyle conveniences, including restaurants, local markets, banks, brand outlets, showrooms, and vibrant street food.
Badda’s mix of residential and commercial areas provides a balanced lifestyle with easy access to everyday necessities and leisure spots.
Areas of Concern
🚧 Traffic & Commute:
The Pragati Sarani road, which is one of the busiest routes in Badda, is relatively narrow. Despite handling heavy traffic throughout the day, its limited width creates significant congestion and delays.
🌍 Environment:
Traffic congestion, along with ongoing construction projects, contributes to increasing air, sound, and dust pollution in the area.
The maintenance of lakes and parks is a growing concern. These spaces are often misused, particularly by laborers and residents, leading to worsening conditions and poor upkeep over time.
