How Can Historic Waterfront Conservation Help to Improve the Quality of Life in Old Dhaka

Authors

  • Mohammed Mahbubur Rahman Kingdom University, PO Box 40434, Riffa, Bahrain
  • Sharif Shams Imon Institute for Tourism Studies, Colina de Mong-Ha, Macao, China

Keywords:

heritage, livability, quality of life, urban waterfronts.

Abstract

Livability of a city is directly related to the quality of life (QOL) in the city. While QOL is attributed to many factors, considering the degree of impact of the quality of physical environment on livability and the role of recreation in psychological wellbeing of individuals, these are the major determinants [of QOL]. Like in many major cities in Asia, the historic waterfront of Dhaka and nearby architectural heritage are important components of its urban fabric. Although diminishing in recent decades, the waterfront continues to play an important role in the social life of the people living in Old Dhaka. In recent years, protection of the waterfront from illegal encroachment and pollution has become a major agenda of civil society and NGOs. However, there is a general lack of understanding of how the river could help in improving the quality of life of the people living near it. The role of community involvement in this is also neglected. By comparing urban waterfronts in similar context and through literature review and observations, the authors investigate if and how the conservation of historic waterfront can contribute to the improvement of quality of life in Old Dhaka and suggest ways to protect riverfront with this objective. Instead of looking at the waterfront strictly as a geographic feature, this paper sees it as products of human manipulation of various natural components. It discusses the socio-political forces that shape the Old Dhaka waterfront, and investigates how the QOL of the residents living on the waterfront can be improved by conserving the historic landscape. It uses a case study approach based on documentary research, unstructured and nonparticipant observations, and interviews with community leaders, environmental campaigners and local organizations.

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Published

2016-11-11

How to Cite

Rahman, M. M., & Imon, S. S. (2016). How Can Historic Waterfront Conservation Help to Improve the Quality of Life in Old Dhaka. American Scientific Research Journal for Engineering, Technology, and Sciences, 26(2), 200–218. Retrieved from https://www.asrjetsjournal.org/index.php/American_Scientific_Journal/article/view/2238

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