Open space system study for the Dacca metropolitan area

Abstract

Open space facilities proposed in the Master Plan for Dacca, 1960, based on zoning by land subdivision, although inadequate in terms of population needs, were never realized -- partly due to their turnover to other land hungry urban developments. A comprehensive step to solve the problem of open space needs for present and future Decca was sought through an ecological approach. The search was for land of intrinsic open space value to be developed with compatible land uses to arrive at a system of multiple values. The map of Dacca published by the geological survey of Pakistan and supporting reference material was analysed for an understanding of the city's various features -- water and wetland, settlement pattern, climate, community, transportation and vegetation. The analytical facts were synthesized to socio-cultural image study, road system study, end finally, open space system study. These studies are based on existing and future physical, socio-cultural growth patterns. It was found out that the rivers, canals, wetlands encircling Dacca could "be the median of an open space system developed with the compatible land use of flood and erosion control, drainage, water supply, agriculture, water transportation and recreation. The system incorporates existing parks, open spaces, and historic value nodes, proposes pedestrian shopping malls, pedestrian, levels in highways, and, reserves spaces for institution and housing expansion.