Gazipur | Bangladesh

Gazipur serves as the premier industrial powerhouse and transport gateway of central Bangladesh, functioning as a critical node for the nation’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector and transport logistics. It is situated in the Dhaka Division, directly north of the capital city, Dhaka.

Historical Timeline

Gazipur’s history dates back to the Pala Empire, with the ancient city of Dholsamudra serving as a regional capital. In the 19th century, it was the center of the influential Bhawal Estate, one of the largest zamindaris in Bengal. Modern Gazipur was established as a district in 1984 and transitioned into a massive industrial corridor during the 1990s and 2000s. Its current urban form is defined by the rapid, often unplanned, conversion of agrarian land into a dense landscape of thousands of garment factories.

Demographics & Population

As of 2026, the population of Gazipur District exceeds 5.2 million. The Gazipur City Corporation alone houses approximately 2.9 million people. The demographic profile is dominated by internal migrants from across Bangladesh who provide the labor for the industrial zones. The median age is approximately 28 years, reflecting a young, working-class population.

Urban Layout & Key Districts

The city follows a linear development pattern along major highways.

Tongi: The southern industrial entrance, famous for garment factories and the Biswa Ijtema grounds.

Joydebpur: The administrative heart of the city and the site of the historic Bhawal Rajbari.

Chandna Chowrasta: The busiest road junction in the country, serving as the intersection for traffic heading to northern and western Bangladesh.

Kaliakair: Home to the Bangabandhu Hi-Tech City, the country's primary technology park.

Top City Landmarks

Bhawal National Park: A 5,000-hectare protected forest of Sal trees.

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park: The largest safari park in the country (located in Sreepur).

Bhawal Rajbari: The former palace of the Bhawal Estate zamindars.

Nuhash Polli: The estate and retreat of the late legendary writer Humayun Ahmed.

Jagroto Chowrongi: The first memorial sculpture of the 1971 Liberation War, located at Chandna Chowrasta.

Transportation Network

Movement is notoriously difficult due to extreme congestion. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line 3, stretching from the Airport to Gazipur, remains a significant but troubled infrastructure project; as of early 2026, it is considered largely failed due to delays and design flaws. The Dhaka Metro Rail (MRT Line 6) is currently being planned for extension to Tongi. The Joydebpur Railway Junction is one of the most important rail hubs in the country. Within the city, travel is conducted via Easy-bikes, CNGs, and rickshaws.

Safety & "Red Zones"

Travelers should note that Bangladesh is under a Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) advisory as of January 2026.

Political Unrest: With national elections scheduled for February 12, 2026, Gazipur is a high-risk area for demonstrations and industrial strikes (hartals).

Industrial Zones: Avoid large factory gatherings in Tongi or Konabari, as labor disputes can escalate quickly into violent clashes.

Crime: Pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab thefts are frequent at Chandna Chowrasta and the Tongi Bazar areas.

Digital & Financial Infrastructure

Internet speeds average 40–100 Mbps; 5G is available in industrial pockets and the Hi-Tech City. The economy is heavily cash-based (BDT). While ATMs are plentiful near commercial centers, card acceptance is limited to high-end resorts and major supermarkets. Mobile financial services (bKash/Nagad) are universal.

Climate & Air Quality

Humid subtropical climate. Temperatures in January 2026 are mild, ranging from 12°C to 25°C. Air quality is a severe concern; in early 2026, Gazipur frequently registers "Very Unhealthy" AQI levels (250+) due to industrial emissions, brick kilns, and construction dust from the BRT project.

Culture & Social Norms

Gazipur is the site of the Biswa Ijtema, the second-largest annual Muslim gathering in the world (after the Hajj). Socially, the city is conservative and working-class. Modest dress is mandatory for all genders. Tipping (5–10%) is expected in restaurants.

Local Cost Index

1 Espresso: 150 BDT ($1.25)

1 Standard Lunch: 250 BDT ($2.10)

1 Rickshaw Ride (Short): 30–60 BDT ($0.25–$0.50)

1 Liter of Petrol: 130 BDT ($1.10)

Nearby Day Trips

Zinda Park: An eco-park in nearby Narayanganj (25 km southeast).

Baliadi Zamindar Bari: A historic mansion in Kaliakair.

Mymensingh: The cultural hub of north-central Bangladesh (90 km north).

Facts & Legends

Gazipur is the home of the "Bhawal Sannyasi" case, one of the most famous legal legends in British Indian history, involving a prince who supposedly died, was cremated, and then reappeared 12 years later as a wandering ascetic. Geologically, the area is part of the Madhupur Tract, characterized by its distinct red clay soil which is visible throughout the Bhawal forest.