MIRPUR 1, DHAKA: A THRIVING HUB WITH DEEP ROOTS

Mirpur 1, Dhaka: A Thriving Hub with Deep Roots

Mirpur 1, Dhaka: A Thriving Hub with Deep Roots

Blog Article

Mirpur 1, a prominent part of the greater Mirpur area, truly embodies Dhaka's vibrant spirit. It's a living blend of historical significance, bustling modern life, and ongoing development. Located in the city's northeast, this area is a crucial center for residents, businesses, and cultural activities, constantly evolving with Bangladesh's growing capital.



Echoes of the Past


Mirpur, established in 1962, carries substantial historical weight. What began as a rural landscape transformed into a lively urban center. Importantly, Mirpur holds a poignant place in Bangladesh's Liberation War history. It was the last stronghold of pro-Pakistan forces after the country gained independence in December 1971. The intense "Liberation of Mirpur" on January 31, 1972, marked a fierce final battle to secure the area. This date is still commemorated as Mirpur Mukto Dibosh (Mirpur Victory Day).

Culturally, Mirpur is renowned for its traditional Banarasi sarees. The "Banarasi Polli" remains a popular destination for intricate fabrics and beautiful designs, drawing shoppers from all over Dhaka and even visitors from places like here in Kushtia, Khulna Division.



Unmatched Connectivity: Navigating Mirpur 1


Mirpur 1 boasts excellent connectivity, a major reason for its continued popularity and growth. Mirpur Road, a vital north-south artery, links it directly to central Dhaka areas like Dhanmondi, Mohammadpur, and Science Lab. This road, though often busy, is essential for daily commutes.

The most transformative development for Mirpur's transportation has been the MRT Line-6 (Metro Rail). With multiple stations in the wider Mirpur area, including stops that greatly benefit Mirpur 1 residents, the metro has revolutionized commuting to places like Uttara, Farmgate, Kawran Bazar, and Motijheel. This has drastically cut down travel times, making Mirpur even more appealing. Plans for MRT Line-5 (Northern Route), which will include a station at Mirpur 1, are currently under construction (started November 2023) and are scheduled to commence operation by 2028, promising to further enhance connectivity to areas like Gulshan, Banani, and Bashundhara. For shorter trips, public transport, including buses, auto-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws, remains readily available, ensuring easy travel within Mirpur and to other parts of Dhaka.



Life in Mirpur 1: Residential Comfort Meets Commercial Dynamism


Mirpur 1, often considered part of "Mirpur South," is characterized by its densely packed residential buildings. It primarily caters to middle-class families and first-time homebuyers who appreciate the relatively affordable housing options here. Neighborhoods like Taltola, Janata Housing, West Shewrapara, West Kazipara, South Monipur, and Borobag are examples of residential zones nearby.

The area is also a vibrant commercial hub. Major roads like Mirpur Road and Begum Rokeya Sarani are lined with banks, hospitals, corporate offices, diverse restaurants, and brand outlets. Darus Salam Road and 60 Feet Road also add significantly to the commercial activity. The presence of numerous super shops ensures residents have easy access to daily necessities. As mentioned, Mirpur 1 is home to "Banarasi Polli," a popular spot for traditional sarees. For entertainment, the area also features Sony Cinema Hall.



Real Estate Outlook: July 2025


The real estate market in Mirpur 1, and Mirpur generally, continues to be attractive due to its affordability compared to prime Dhaka areas, combined with constantly improving infrastructure.

  • Affordability: Mirpur remains a top choice for middle-class families and working professionals seeking budget-friendly apartments. The average price per square foot in Mirpur typically ranges from BDT 5,500 to BDT 13,000, noticeably lower than in Dhaka's more upscale neighborhoods.

  • High-Rise Living: Due to space constraints and the demand for modern conveniences, high-rise apartment projects are common. Many "under construction" and "ready" flats are available, suiting various budgets. There's a notable trend of rising used property sales as buyers shift focus from new apartments due to high inflation and construction costs.

  • Metro's Influence: The completed and ongoing metro rail projects are a major driving force behind rising real estate values. Properties located near metro stations are experiencing increased demand and appreciation, with apartment demand in Mirpur having increased by 24% and rent by 27% since the metro's opening. Prices for flats in Mirpur near metro access points, which were BDT 5,500-7,000 per square foot three years ago, are now selling for BDT 10,000-13,000.

  • Mixed-Use Trends: There's a growing trend toward mixed-use developments, combining residential units with commercial spaces. This offers greater convenience for residents and attracts more businesses, with new commercial complexes often including showrooms, offices, and food courts. Recent changes to Dhaka's Detailed Area Plan (DAP), including a relaxation of the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) allowing buildings in Mirpur to rise from 5 to 7 storeys, could further influence future development and property values, though this has drawn criticism from urban planners concerned about increasing density.





Comprehensive Facilities and Amenities


Mirpur 1 is well-equipped with essential facilities and amenities:

  • Education: The area boasts many reputable educational institutions, including Monipur High School and College and Methodist English Medium School. Nearby, you'll find Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) and Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), making it appealing for families.

  • Healthcare: Access to quality healthcare is readily available, with various hospitals and clinics serving the local population.

  • Recreation: While Mirpur 1 itself may not have vast green spaces, the wider Mirpur area offers significant recreational spots like the National Botanical Garden and the Dhaka Zoo, providing a refreshing escape from city life. The Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, a major sporting venue, is also a prominent landmark.

  • Shopping and Dining: Beyond the traditional markets and Banarasi Polli, Mirpur offers a wide array of shopping options, from local bazaars to modern shopping complexes. A diverse range of eateries, from street food vendors serving popular Bangladeshi snacks like fuchka and chotpoti to international fast-food chains, cater to every taste.





Challenges and the Path Forward


Despite its many advantages, Mirpur 1, like other densely populated areas of Dhaka, faces challenges such as traffic congestion (though the metro is significantly helping) and issues related to waste management and urban planning in some older sections. The current real estate market also faces broader challenges like high inflation, rising construction costs, and some market volatility, which have impacted flat sales. Indeed, flat sales have seen significant drops, particularly among middle-income buyers (down by 40% for middle-income and up to 70% for affluent buyers) as the cost of raw materials and home loan interest rates have surged. Many developers are struggling with unsold units and are facing pressure from tax authorities.

However, with continued infrastructure development, especially the expanding metro network, and ongoing private real estate investments, Mirpur 1 is poised for further growth. Its blend of affordability, excellent connectivity, and comprehensive amenities ensures its continued role as a vital and dynamic part of Dhaka's urban fabric.

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