Factors and impacts of water logging in the city life of Malibagh, Dhaka

Abstract

Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh and one of the world’s most densely populated mega-cities, is situated along the northeastern banks of Buriganga River. Rapid urbanization puts immense pressure on Dhaka resources. The urban expansion has led to numerous challenges, including traffic congestion, air and water pollution and waste management. One of the significant problems in Dhaka is waterlogging, particularly during the monsoon season. Reported contributing factors include poor drainage infrastructure, lack of maintenance, natural siltation, and waste accumulation blocking drainage paths. However, detailed account of the impact of waterlogging in everyday life in Dhaka often remain ignored in the literature. This study explores the factors of seasonal water logging and their impacts on the city life of Malibagh area, Dhaka. Media and newspaper coverage suggested to identify the study and a reconnaissance survey helped to finalize the study area of this research. This study follows qualitative research approach in conducting data collection to understand concepts, opinions, or experiences of the citizens of Malibagh area. The study uses observation, questionnaire survey and interview as forms of data collection. Collected data were analyzed to identify the main factors of waterlogging in the study area. Findings show that the consequences of waterlogging are far-reaching – disrupting daily life, causing traffic jams, spreading waterborne diseases, damaging roads, and increasing construction and maintenance costs. Waterlogging in the study area not only harms the environment and society but also imposes significant economic costs. The findings suggest improved drainage systems, effective waste management & regular cleaning, water flow regulation in natural drainage channels as ways to mitigate the multifaceted impacts of waterlogging in Dhaka.