Chawkbazar, a historic treasure at the heart of Dhaka city, has evolved from a Mughal fort’s open marketplace to a bustling wholesale hub since its inception in 1602. This design project explores the rich history and complex challenges facing Chawkbazar. It presents the visionary Chawkbazar redevelopment project, aimed at preserving its heritage while paving the way for its next phase of development.

Over the centuries, Chawkbazar has witnessed transformative changes, transitioning from retail to wholesale trade in various goods. However, it now grapples with overpopulation, congestion, and fire safety concerns. The area’s fate is intricately tied to its shop owners and the local community, making careful planning imperative.

This proposal employs a strategic approach that places a strong emphasis on minimizing demolition and resettlement issues. By carefully selecting sites with a high density of one and two-story buildings, the project aims to strike a delicate balance between progress and preservation. Only 19% of the structures are planned to be demolished to facilitate road widening, and these will be replaced with new development. The remaining 51% of existing buildings will be preserved, ensuring the retention of Chawkbazar’s unique historical character.

Crucially, the project adopts a phased development model to ensure minimal disruption to the bustling marketplace. Temporary resettlement areas like the “Jahaji baris” site and innovative systems for rebuilt structures demonstrate a commitment to accommodating traders while compensating for any losses incurred. This approach safeguards Chawkbazar’s essence and forms a solid foundation for its future development.

Chawkbazar, steeped in history and standing at the crossroads of progress, offers a unique opportunity for reevaluation. With its historical significance preserved and its vibrant future secured, Chawkbazar is poised to continue thriving as a vital part of Dhaka’s history. The Chawkbazar redevelopment project serves as a testament to the careful balance between preserving historical places and embracing progress, setting a commendable example for urban development in historic districts.