Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan

Volume III

3 CHAPTER THREE: PUBLIC SPACE (HERITAGE, OPEN

SPACE AND RECREATION)
3.1 Introduction
The Nobel Laureate poet Rabindra Nath Tagore held a firm believe that "if the diamond ring is
learning, the light reflected from it is culture" (SHESHER KABITA, R.N. Tagore, published by
Biswa Bharati, Page 3, translated), implying that a nation's civilization is reflected through its
culture. Bangladesh is a country that belongs to the ancient and historic region of Bengal in the
Eastern part of the Subcontinent, despite the fact that it only gained its independence relatively
recently, in 1971, after a bloody liberation war. The country's civilization began more than 4,000
years ago, during the Copper Age. Bangladesh's people's faith, ethnic heritage, ideas, aspirations,
and creativity, as well as their love of life and the natural world, all contribute to the country's
culture and traditions. Throughout history, the country's unique geographic location, wealth of
riches, and natural beauty have drawn traders, travelers, and religious missionaries from abroad
to come and reside there. Bangladesh's culture and civilization have been further enriched by
these ongoing exchanges with people from different races, civilizations, and cultural
backgrounds while yet preserving the distinctive indigenous aspects. In the same vein,
generations of settlers have fostered their own culture and civilization here. Bangladesh
currently benefits from a rich, varied cultural legacy.
A nation's cultural history is supported by its heritage. The need to halt the rapid deterioration
and eradication of the heritages is quite an urge in Bangladesh. The working paper aims to
assess the existing scenario regarding historical, heritage and tourism and finally to provide
recommendations for future development and conservation of historical, heritage and tourism
establishments.
The phrase “open space” is used extremely broadly to describe all areas that is not exploited for
construction and is left in its natural state. Open space is not vacant space. The purposes of open
space are connected to this usage of land, water, and air. Numerous active and passive
recreational activities take place in open places. For outdoor physical recreation, there are
playgrounds, sports fields, stadiums, etc. For mental and intellectual relaxation, there are parks,
attractive gardens, and serene places of beauty with grass, trees, and water features. Open space
can be used to create a beautiful image of visual elements. Open space can be defined as un-built
lands within the city which provides environmental, social, and economic benefits for the
communities. These areas typically include water and land areas used for recreation, scenic
beauty, and conservation. Open areas serve as leisure spaces for urban residents, both actively
and passively, in addition to their ecological and aesthetic significance. Outside of urban
heritage, open space is a crucial component of both domestic and international tourists’ leisure
time. They are crucial livability indicators for towns and communities to guarantee the health
and wellness of people living there.
The lungs of cities are thought to “be open spaces. The two are connected because of them. They
provide a break from the routine of city life. Without an open space system, no municipal layout
is complete. It is currently understood that their provision is a civic duty that should be carried
out through town and rural planning. In order to provide adequate recreational opportunities,
10% of urban land should be set aside as open space (Murray, 1997) and apportioned in
accordance with the town’s population density. Any prudent human activity that produces a

1|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

pleasurable reaction, at any time, location, or circumstance, and has accompanying enriching
physical, intellectual, or emotional benefits is referred to as recreation. These areas are used for
mental or physical refreshment following a day of labor through amusing or simulating play
activities. Through its surroundings, environments, and locations, it offers mental relaxation.

Open Space: Open spaces are defined as all publicly accessible and privately owned lands that
have an open feel and are used for outdoor leisure. This includes not just undeveloped land but
also, water and the upper atmosphere. They could range from modest playgrounds to sizable
hunting grounds, lakes, and beaches.
Recreation: Recreation refers to activities or experiences that people engage in for enjoyment,
relaxation, and fun. It is a way to take a break from work, school, or other daily responsibilities
and to recharge and rejuvenate oneself. Recreation can take many different forms, such as
sports,
games, outdoor activities, creative pursuits like art and music, or simply spending time with
friends and family. It refers to the provision of recreational spaces, facilities, and services for the
residents of a city or town. This includes parks, playgrounds, sports fields, swimming pools,
community centers, and other public spaces where people can engage in recreational activities.

Lalmai upazila is situated in Comilla District with an area of 123.61 sq.km. It is situated in very
close proximity to Comilla with an enriched prospect of linking open spaces for recreation. It
needs immediate attention by regularizing and ordering of land, services, and infrastructural
development to make both cities functional and compatible with local and regional settings.
Chapter 9 of the 8th Five Year Plan addresses the greatest challenge of rapid urbanization on a
massive scale in the form of degradation of the urban environment. As a result, in order to
accommodate rapid urbanization and increasing population, recreation and open space are
filling up. One objective and strategy of 8 th FYP for the Municipality and City Corporation’s is
“Ensuring land use Planning and Development Control of towns”. The section-5 of “The
Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act, 1995” (ECA, 1995) and Rule – 3 declared
ecologically critical area for conservation. A nation’s cultural history is supported by its
heritage. The current era calls for the preservation of historic structures and locations. The need
to halt the rapid deterioration and eradication of the heritages is quite an urge in Bangladesh.
The working paper aims to assess the existing scenario regarding recreation and open space
and finally to provide policy guidelines for future requirements regarding heritage, recreation
and open space.

3.2 History of the region:

The history of Comilla, a district in southeastern Bangladesh, is rich and diverse, reflecting the
region's importance through various historical periods. Known for its strategic location and
cultural heritage, Comilla has been a significant center from ancient times to the present day.

3.2.1 Ancient and Medieval Periods

3.2.1.1 Early Settlements:
Comilla's history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of early human settlements in the
area. The region was part of the ancient kingdom of Samatata, which existed around the 3rd
century BCE to the 7th century CE. The Lalmai-Mainamati hills, part of Comilla, were significant
centers of Buddhist civilization from the 7th to the 12th centuries. Numerous Buddhist

2|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

monasteries, stupas, and temples have been unearthed in this region, indicating its importance
as a religious and cultural hub.

3.2.1.2 Buddhist Heritage:

The archaeological remains at Mainamati and Lalmai reveal the area's prominence during the
early medieval period. Excavations have uncovered the remains of significant Buddhist
establishments, such as the Salban Vihara, Ananda Vihara, and the Mainamati Bhabar. These
sites reflect the architectural and cultural influence of Buddhism in the region, with evidence of
educational and religious activities.

3.2.1.3 Hindu and Muslim Influence:

Following the decline of Buddhism, the region saw the rise of Hindu influence, which is reflected
in various temples and artifacts found in the area. The Muslim rule began in the 13th century
with the conquest of Bengal by the Delhi Sultanate. Comilla came under the control of various
Muslim rulers, including the Mughals, who established administrative and military structures in
the region.

3.2.2 British Colonial Period

3.2.2.1 Colonial Administration:
During British rule, Comilla became part of the Bengal Presidency. The British established
administrative infrastructure, including roads, railways, and educational institutions,
contributing to the region's development. Comilla was known as Tipperah District during the
British period. The district played a significant role in the anti-British movements, including the
Swadeshi movement and the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi.

3.2.2.2 Cultural and Educational Development:

Comilla was home to several prominent figures in the fields of education and culture. Notable
institutions such as Comilla Victoria Government College (established in 1899) contributed to
the educational advancement of the region. The district also produced renowned personalities
like the poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, who spent part of his life in Comilla.

3.2.3 Post-Independence Period

3.2.3.1 Liberation War:
During the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, Comilla played a crucial role. The region
witnessed significant battles and atrocities committed by the Pakistani military. Comilla was
liberated in December 1971, contributing to the independence of Bangladesh.

3.2.3.2 Modern Era:

After independence, Comilla has continued to develop both economically and culturally. It
remains an important administrative and commercial center in Bangladesh. The district has
seen significant infrastructure development, including improvements in transportation,
healthcare, and education.

3.2.4 Cultural Heritage

3.2.4.1 Cultural Contributions:
Comilla is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and crafts. The
district is famous for its Ras Malai, a popular sweet delicacy. The region celebrates various
cultural festivals and fairs, reflecting its diverse heritage and traditions.
In summary, Comilla's history is marked by its significance as a cultural, religious, and
administrative center through various historical periods. From ancient Buddhist civilization to

3|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

its role in the Bangladesh Liberation War, Comilla has a rich and diverse legacy that continues to
influence its development and identity.

3.3 History of Project Area:

The connection between Comilla and Lalmai is deeply rooted in their shared historical, cultural,
and archaeological significance. Here’s an overview of their relationship:

3.3.1 Geographical and Historical Context

3.3.1.1 Location:
 Comilla: A district in southeastern Bangladesh, known for its rich cultural
heritage and historical significance.
 Lalmai: Refers to the Lalmai hills, a range of low hills located in the Comilla
district. These hills are part of the larger Lalmai-Mainamati archaeological
region.

3.3.2 Archaeological and Cultural Heritage

3.3.2.1 Lalmai-Mainamati Archaeological Sites:
The Lalmai hills, along with the adjacent Mainamati area, form a significant archaeological
complex known for its ancient Buddhist remains. These sites include the remnants of Buddhist
monasteries, stupas, and temples dating from the 7th to the 12th centuries. Important sites
within this complex include Salban Vihara, Ananda Vihara, and Itakhola Mura.

3.3.2.2 Historical Importance:

The Lalmai-Mainamati region was an important center of Buddhist learning and culture during
the early medieval period. Excavations have revealed numerous artifacts such as terracotta
plaques, inscriptions, and sculptures, which provide insights into the religious, cultural, and
social life of the period.

3.3.3 Cultural and Religious Significance

3.3.3.1 Spread of Buddhism:
The Lalmai hills played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism in Bengal. The monasteries and
educational institutions in this region were significant centers for Buddhist monks and scholars.
The influence of these centers extended beyond the local area, contributing to the wider
Buddhist cultural landscape of South and Southeast Asia.

3.3.3.2 Etymology and Local Legends:

The name "Lalmai" is believed to be derived from "Lal" (red) and "Mai" (mother), possibly
referring to the reddish soil of the area or a local deity or legend. Local folklore and legends
often intertwine with the historical narrative, adding a layer of cultural richness to the region's
heritage.

3.3.4 Modern Context

3.3.4.1 Tourism and Education:
Today, the Lalmai-Mainamati archaeological sites are major tourist attractions, drawing visitors
interested in history, archaeology, and culture. The region also serves as an educational
resource, with ongoing research and excavations contributing to the academic study of ancient
Bengal.

4|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

3.3.4.2 Economic and Cultural Development:

Comilla, as a district, benefits from the cultural and historical tourism generated by the Lalmai-
Mainamati sites. The preservation and promotion of these sites contribute to the cultural
identity and economic development of the region.

3.3.5 Integration of Heritage

3.3.5.1 Preservation Efforts:
Efforts are ongoing to preserve and protect the archaeological sites in the Lalmai-Mainamati
region. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the historical and cultural integrity of the area.
Collaboration between local authorities, historians, and archaeologists ensures that the heritage
of Comilla and Lalmai continues to be studied and appreciated.
In summary, the connection between Comilla and Lalmai is intrinsic, with Lalmai hills forming a
vital part of Comilla’s historical and cultural landscape. The archaeological treasures of the
Lalmai-Mainamati region highlight Comilla's significance as a center of ancient Buddhist
civilization and contribute to its modern cultural identity.

3.4 Project Area

Lalmai Upazila, situated within the broader Comilla District, spans an area of 123.61 square
kilometers, positioned between 23.39° north latitudes, and 91.10° east longitudes. Positioned at
a distance of 10 to 15 kilometers northeast of Comilla. Lalmai Upazila, located in the Comilla
District of Bangladesh, is situated near several rivers that contribute to the region's geography
and ecosystem. The primary river near Lalmai Upazila is the Dakatia River and it runs through
the upazila. The proximity of the Dkatia River to Lalmai Upazila not only enhances the natural
beauty of the area but also provides essential resources for the local population. The river's
presence has historically supported settlement and development in the region, including the
ancient Buddhist sites in the Lalmai-Mainamati hills.
Table 3-1: Profile of Lalmai Upazila

Indicator Lalmai

Population (BBS-2022) 214999

Male 98062
Female 116937
Household (BBS, 2022) 50355
Total
1813
Density
Population density (per sq. km.)
Literacy rate (BBS,2022) 75.14%

3.5 Present Practice of Selecting Heritage Buildings and Site

in Bangladesh
The current method used by the concerned authority to choose a new heritage building or site
for protection is not a scientific one. The relevant authority currently uses a piecemeal approach.
An establishment or location was requested or put forward for inclusion on the protected list of
Dept. of Archaeology (DOA) by the local government or Member of Parliament (MP). The DOA
dispatched an officer to the building or site after receiving a request from the field level. The

5|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

building or location is initially approved as a protected monument by the Director General (DG)
of DOA based on the officer's favorable report. The Ministry of Culture, however, has the last say
in the matter. However, there is no advisory group or technical committee involved in the
selection process. As a result, there is a lower likelihood of choosing additional potential
buildings or sites for future conservation. Because DOA lacks a list of historically significant
structures or sites that have been given priority for future conservation based on a grading
system. To evaluate historical structures or locations for potential future conservation work, a
grading system is crucial (Ali, 2017).
Table 3-2: Criteria of considering Heritage Site
Criterion Sub – Criterion
Associate historical significance Associated with an event
Associated with a notable person
Age of the building or site
Importance of building or site in the
historical development of Bangladesh
Trends/ Patterns/ Themes
Architectural, Artistic & Aesthetic Style
significance Designer/Builder
Construction materials
Aesthetic
Potential for conservation
Setting and landmark status Group or setting significance
Community context
Landmark status
Zoning compatibility
Collective memory of the community
Authenticity, Integrity, and Rarity Survival status
State of preservation
Site and foundation
Compatibility to current use
Adaptive re-use potential
Rarity of age, construction materials
Significance from archaeological, Archaeological potential
technological, scientific, and spiritual Technological and scientific potential
perspective Spiritual significance
Social significance

3.6 Typology of Recreation and Open Space Facilities

Typology for recreation and open space facilities describes the concept of classification or
categorization that is used for understanding and arranging various kinds of open space and
recreational places. This typology facilitates the conception, design, and administration of areas
that meet the many recreational demands of a community by urban planners, architects, and
legislators. It offers a framework for classifying and recognizing different facilities, making sure
they satisfy user preferences and particular goals.

6|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

Typically, typology takes into account elements like the size, purpose, user demographics, and
activities available in these places. The following are some typical categories included in a
typology of open-space and recreational facilities:

Table 3-3: Recreation Typology

Type Description
Active Activities that require physical exertion and can range from team sports like soccer or
recreation basketball, to individual activities such as jogging, cycling, or hiking. These types of
activities are typically well-suited for larger open spaces such as parks or trails.
Passive Activities that are more relaxed and can be enjoyed in a more tranquil setting. Examples
recreation of passive recreation include reading a book, having a picnic, or enjoying the scenery.
These types of activities are typically well-suited for smaller open spaces such as plazas
or gardens.
Water Activities that are centered around bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, or oceans.
recreation Examples of water recreation include swimming, fishing, boating, or paddleboarding.
These types of activities are typically well-suited for open spaces with water features
such as waterfront parks or beaches.
Cultural and Activities that focus on learning about and appreciating the cultural or natural history of
Educational a place. Examples of cultural and educational recreation include nature walks, historical
recreation tours, or art exhibits. These types of activities are typically well-suited for open spaces
with historical or cultural significance such as museums, monuments, or heritage sites.

Social and Activities that are designed to bring people together and foster social connections.
Community Examples of social and community recreation include community events, festivals, or
recreation concerts. These types of activities are typically well-suited for open spaces that are
centrally located and easily accessible to the community.

Table 3-4: Typology of Open Space

Type Description
Neighborhood Play lot Small area intended for children of pre-school age having playing
Open Space equipment such as low swings, slides, see-saw, sand boxes etc.
Playground Areas intended for children of ages 6-14 having courts like tennis,
basketball, badminton, volleyball etc. for informal play.
Play field Area combining play lot and playground for young people and adults
having provision of football, baseball, cricket etc.
Parks Areas like small parks, school parks and banks of small watercourses
are designed mainly to serve a local area to get rid of noise and traffic
rush being indiscriminately accessible in terms of age, gender, race,
ethnicity, and religion.
Incidental It means not the land just left over but properly designed open space
Open space such as the space between two buildings, footpath spaces etc.
City Open Space City parks Areas for passive recreation provided in or around the heart of the city.
Parkways/ Areas with tree-lined avenues having separate provisions for cyclists,
Boulevards pedestrian, additional carriageways for vehicular traffic.
Green belts Areas not usually devoted to public recreation entirely but serves to
restrict the further outward growth of city/town.
Stadium Areas for sports center, athletic fields, golf courses, racecourses etc.
comparatively larger than play fields.

7|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III
Type Description
Water Areas having opportunities for bathing, swimming, fishing, boating etc.
bodies
Regional/ National Areas to picturesque mountainous regions, marshy lowlands, foreshore,
National Open Park flora, fauna, geology, entomology, forest ecology, meteorology,
Space seismology etc.
Botanical Areas for scientific purposes having opportunity for passive recreation
garden covering flora.
Zoological Areas for scientific purposes having opportunity for passive recreation
garden covering fauna.
Public parks and gardens Areas of land normally enclosed, designed, constructed, managed, and
maintained as a public park or garden. These may be owned or managed
by community groups.
Private gardens or grounds Areas of land normally enclosed and associated with a house or
institution and reserved for private use.
Amenity greenspace Landscaped areas providing visual amenity or separating different
buildings or land uses for environmental, visual or safety reasons and
used for a variety of informal or social activities such as sunbathing,
picnics or kickabouts.
Play space for children and Areas providing safe and accessible opportunities for children’s play,
teenagers usually linked to housing areas.
Sports areas Large and generally flat areas of grassland or specially designed
surfaces, used primarily for designated sports (including playing fields,
golf courses, tennis courts and bowling greens) and which are generally
bookable.
Green corridors Routes including canals, river corridors and old railway lines, linking
different areas within a town or city as part of a designated and
managed network and used for walking, cycling, or linking towns and
cities to their surrounding rural areas. These may link green spaces
together.
Natural/semi- natural Areas of undeveloped or previously developed land with residual
greenspaces natural habitats or which have been planted or colonized by vegetation
and wildlife, including woodland and wetland areas.
Allotments and Areas of land for growing fruit, vegetables, and other plants, either in
community growing spaces individual allotments or as a community activity.
Civic space Squares, streets, and waterfront promenades, predominantly of hard
landscaping that provide a focus for pedestrian activity and can make
connections for people and for wildlife.
Burial grounds Includes churchyards and cemeteries.
Another functional greenspace May be one or more types as required by local circumstances or
priorities.

8|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

3.7 Study Methodology

The study was conducted by review approach, brainstorming and literature review on historical,
heritage and tourism. The upazila master plan and working papers, existing rules and
regulations, higher level plans are reviewed. For the convenience of the study, stakeholder
mapping is done to picturesque the related stakeholders so that none of the opinions are missed
and to develop a bridge between end-users and authority encouraging bottom-up approach of
planning. Before moving onto the field visit for secondary data collection from different offices
in the Lalmai Upazila Parishad, Key Informant Interview (KII), meeting minutes and to
picturesque the heritages co-ordination schema along with a questionnaire is developed. Finally,
policy guidelines are prepared to present it in the form of report writing and power point
presentation. The consultants appointed a team to conduct an expedition in the project area.
The purpose of this visit is to achieve a preliminary idea, secondary data collection, physical
characteristics of the surrounding environment, including various kinds of problem,
infrastructure, the state of the transportation system etc. about the history, heritage, tradition,
and culture.

Figure 3-1: Core Methodological framework for heritage study

1|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

3.8 Stakeholder Mapping

A stakeholder is any individual or organization that has an interest in the development of a
particular sector. In other words, persons, and groups (including the general public, local
communities, interested groups etc.) who are affected by or can affect the implementation of a
plan are called stakeholders. It is very helpful to target people who are related to the project.
The diagram for stakeholder mapping is divided into a quadrant having x-axis and y-axis. The
stakeholders having Interest in the project are put in x-axis where the stakeholders having
Power to implement the project are put in y-axis. The national government should be satisfied
as they are all in all. The residents and students have more interest in the project and least
power to implement the project. This is why residents and students should be kept always
informed. The stakeholders who will monitor the project have similar least weight regarding
Power and Interest to the project. Lastly, those who will manage closely have greater but similar
weight in Power and Interest to the project.

Figure 3-2: Stakeholder mapping for heritage site study

2|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

Table 3-5: Co-ordination Schema

Objective 01: To assess the existing scenario regarding recreation and open space
Complex Simple Variable Data Collection Method / Work
Variable Approach
Open spaces  Classification and listing Physical Survey, Secondary Data
 Natural and man-made elements Collection
 Plant categories Divisional Forest Office Dhaka,
 Soil quality DoE, District Commissioner
 Standards
 Hierarchy
Recreation  Linkage between open space and Physical Survey, Secondary Data
recreation Collection
 Natural recreational facilities
 Man- made recreational facilities
 Important landmarks
Recreation  Outdoor recreation facilities Physical Survey, Secondary Data
facility types  Indoor recreation facilities Collection
Environment  Pollution Physical Survey, Secondary Data
 Surrounding features Collection
 Heat island
 Weather
 Temperature
Objective 02: To assess future requirements regarding recreation and open space
Wildlife  Flora Physical Survey, Secondary Data
habitat  Fauna Collection
 Sanctuary Divisional Forest Office Dhaka,
DoE, District Commissioner
Mobility  Pedestrian Walkway Physical Survey / Design Process
 Bi-Cycle Lane
 Vehicle Choice
Accessibility  Parking Facilities Physical Survey / Design Process
 Roadway
Services and  Restaurants Physical Survey / Design Process
Facilities  Recreational Points
 Price Range
 Viewpoint
 Relaxing Spot
Safety and  Area Boundary Physical Survey / Design Process
Security  Unsocial Activity
 Emergency Equipment
 Street Lighting

3|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

3.9 Existing Scenario and Critical Issues

3.9.1 Existing Scenario of Heritage
Lalmai Upazila, located in the Comilla District of Bangladesh, is known for its historical and
archaeological significance. There is no specified heritage site in Lalmai upazila according to
Department of Archeology (DoA). Some famous places adjacent to Lalmai Upazila include:
Lalmai Hill: Also known as Lalmai-Mainamati Hill Range, this area is renowned for its scenic
beauty and historical importance. The hill range is dotted with numerous ancient Buddhist sites
and ruins.
Mainamati Ruins: Although Mainamati is technically in the Comilla Sadar Dakshin Upazila, it is
often associated with Lalmai due to their proximity and historical connection. This
archaeological site includes several ancient Buddhist monasteries and stupas dating back to the
7th-12th centuries.
Shalban Vihara: Part of the Mainamati ruins, Shalban Vihara is a large Buddhist monastery
complex that offers insights into the region's rich Buddhist heritage.
Ananda Vihara: Another significant archaeological site, Ananda Vihara features the remains of
a Buddhist monastery and is part of the broader Lalmai-Mainamati archaeological zone.
Rupban Mura: This site includes the remains of a small Buddhist monastery and several stupas,
providing a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of the area during ancient times.
Itakhola Mura: An archaeological site with the remains of a Buddhist stupa and monastery,
Itakhola Mura is one of the important historical locations in the region.
These places are significant for their historical, archaeological, and cultural value, attracting
researchers, historians, and tourists interested in the ancient Buddhist heritage of Bangladesh.
The project area doesn’t contain any heritage site. Each of places is situated in Comilla region.
SWOT analysis of heritage sites cannot be conducted within project area.

3.9.2 Recreation and Open Space Sites

The consultants appointed a team to conduct a secondary data collection expedition and to
picturesque heritage landmarks in the project area. The purpose of this visit is to achieve an
idea about the physical characteristics of the heritages, history, tourism, its surrounding
environment, including various kinds of problem, infrastructure and utility facilities, the state of
the transportation system, institutional adequacy etc. The team has also performed a
preliminary consultation with a number of important project stakeholders, which are covered in
the following sections: A courtesy meeting with Assistant Engineer, Lalmai Upazila was
conducted at his office. The team was able to explain all the specifics required of the project’s
completion of Lalmai upazila master plan. He showed the crew with some necessary material
and expressed a strong interest in the upazila master plan. Additionally, he briefly discussed
some of upazilas most pressing issues on public spaces. He quoted:

4|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III
Table 3-6: Union wise Recreational Sites
Union Name Recreational Places

Bagmara Dakkhin 1. Dakatia River

Bagmara Uttar 1. Dutia Dighi
2. Nawra Buddha Temple
3. Bagmara High School
Belghor Dakkhin -
Belghor Uttar 1. Goiyar Vanga Mazar of Saiyad Khandakar Uddin
2. Tulatuli Kanaiya Banyan Tree
Perul Dakkhin 1. Shakra Darbar Sharif
2. Perul Govt. Primary School
Perul Uttar 1. Alisshor Buddha Bihar
2. Alishohor Rail Station
Bhulain Dakkhin 1. Monument of Haratali Bazar
Bhulain Uttar 1. Borocholunda Dighi
2. KhiraRiver
Bakai Uttar -
Source: Lalmai Upazila Website

Figure 3-3: Recreational Facilitity spots in Lalmai Upazila

Table 3-7: Union wise Open space and playground list

Union Name Open Space Playgroun Grand

5|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III
d Total
Bagmara Dakkhin 38 2 40
Bagmara Uttar 19 19
Bakoi Uttar 26 2 28
Belghar Dakkhin 2 2
Belghar Uttar 30 1 31
Perul Dakkhin 20 1 21
Perul Uttar 14 3 17
Vuloin Dakkhin 5 6 11
Vuloin Uttar 10 2 12
Grand Total 164 17 181

Figure 3-4: Bagmara High School Field Figure 3-5: Bhulin Givt. Primary School Field

Figure 3-6: Bhulain Kachari Bazar Eidghah Field

Figure 3-7: Choto Shorifpur High School Field

6|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

Figure 3-8: Doulatpur Primary School Field Figure 3-9: Duttapur Govt Primary School Field

Figure 3-10: Joykamta Eidghah Field Figure 3-11: Joykamta Primary School Field

Figure 3-12: Kolmia Girls High School Field Figure 3-13: Uttar Dowlatpur Eidghah Field

7|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

Figure 3-14: Chowhongi Women

Madrasa
The table provides information on the availability of Open Spaces and Playgrounds across
different unions, along with the Grand Total of spaces per union. Bagmara Dakkhin has the
highest total with 40 spaces (38 open spaces and 2 playgrounds), while Bagmara Uttar has 19
open spaces but no playgrounds. Bakoi Uttar follows with 28 spaces (26 open and 2
playgrounds), and Belghar Uttar has 31 spaces (30 open and 1 playground). Belghar Dakkhin
has the lowest count, with just 2 open spaces. Perul Dakkhin and Perul Uttar show totals of 21
and 17 spaces respectively, with limited playgrounds. Bhuloin Dakkhin and Bhuloin Uttar have
11 and 12 spaces, with Bhuloin Dakkhin having a notable 6 playgrounds. Overall, there are 164
open spaces and 17 playgrounds, totaling 181 spaces. This indicates that while open spaces are
more abundant, playgrounds are relatively scarce across the unions. According to the local
people, there is a lack of proper recreation facilities. Existing playground needs different types of
activity such as basketball ground, football ground, cricket ground etc.

8|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

Figure 3-15: Open space and Recreation Facilitity spots in Lalmai Upazila

Figure 3-16: Playground locations of Lalmai Upazila

9|Page
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III

3.9.2 SWOT Analysis

SWOT analysis was also done by discussing with key informants. The planning team also visited
the Upazila and noted the key points of SWOT analysis.

Table 3-8: SWOT Analysis

Strength Weakness
Playlot, play field are observed within Defective land transfer laws, rules, and
school, high-school, and college regulations
Providing very important open space and The UNO does not have the proper authority to
recreation enforce open space and recreation
conservation
There are many old and manor houses Poor management of formal open space
which bear witness to history
Youth sectors are becoming more aware of Failure of development agencies and urban
the necessity and conservation of open local governments to implement plan
spaces and recreation designated open space provisions
Opportunity Threat
With proper maintenance, old Conflict of Interest between land brokers and
infrastructures can become tourist implementing authority
attractions.
Opportunity to raise public awareness of Insufficient finances to address urban linkage
local community between open space and recreation
Scope to develop recreational open space in Degradation of the recreation and open space
suburban areas due to presence of unused due to pollution and lack of conservation.
and natural landscape Encroachment of public open space

3.10 Review of Relevant Existing Plans, Rules, Regulation and

Policies
3.10.1 Reviewed Relevant Plans

Environment related existing rules and regulations are reviewed to assess the existing
recreational facilities. Local level to higher level planning policy both are considered i.e.,
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Dhaka Strategic Plan (2016-2035) Patuakhali Municipal
Master Plan (2010-2030) The Environment Conservation Act (ECA), 1995 The Environment
Conservation (Amendment) Act, 2010 National Urban Sector Policy, 2011 (Draft) Land Use
Policy, 2001. The relevant matters are discussed below –

10 | P a g e
Draft Survey Report 1 Lalmai Upazila Master Plan
Volume III
Table 3-9: Review of Existing Planning Policy
Existing Rules and Regulations/ Higher Relevant Matters
Level Plans
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Aim-11
− Creating green spaces
Aim-15
− Restoration of damaged land
Dhaka Strategic Plan (2016-2035) Conservation of river channels, canal banks
and wetlands
Patuakhali Municiple Master Plan (2010- Population, considering distance and suitable
2030) land, most urban social services are offered to
citizens within 1-2 km range
The Environment Conservation Act (ECA), The declaration of ecologically critical area is
1995 addressed under section-5 of ECA, 1995 and
Rule – 3 by considering the factors as
mentioned in Chapter 2.2
The Environment Conservation Environmentally sensitive areas (Ecologically
(Amendment) Act, 2010 Critical Area) determination Regarding
conducting activities in environmentally
sensitive areas
National Urban Sector Policy,2011 (Draft) Conservation of land resources in ecologically
sensitive areas
Land Use Policy,2001 Reservation of special land

3.11 Conclusion and Recommendations

This paper shows not only the condition of recreational or open spaces but also heritage sights
and historical background of Lalmai Upazila. It has potential to develop as an environmentally
friendly Upazila. This study will help to decide the development policy of recreational spaces
and conservation policy for historical places. Some recommendations are –
 Conservation of Lalmai Open spaces
 Conservation of Dakatia River.
 Renewal of existing play fields.
 Open spaces should be utilized by providing recreational activity.
 Parks for children should be established.
 Recreational activity might be created around pond side.

11 | P a g e