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Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank: A Colonial Relic

Discover Dhaka's colonial past at this historic water tank, a relic of 19th-century engineering in the heart of Old Dhaka.

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The Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank, built in 1878, stands as a reminder of Dhaka's early water distribution system. This red-brick structure, located beside Bahadur Shah Park in Old Dhaka, showcases 19th-century engineering and offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past.

A brief summary to Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank

  • Johnson Rd, Dhaka, Sutrapur, BD
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for a more comfortable experience, avoiding the heat and monsoon season.
  • Explore the surrounding area of Old Dhaka, including nearby attractions like Ahsan Manzil and the Sadarghat riverfront, to immerse yourself in the city's history and culture.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the park in the late afternoon to witness the local community gathering and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Respect the historical significance of the park by refraining from littering and following any guidelines or rules set by the park authorities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank is centrally located in Old Dhaka, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. If you are near Jagannath University, walk towards the university's main gate; the park is directly opposite it. From Laxmibazar, head south towards Johnson Road. The park is located on Johnson Road and is easily identifiable by its iron railings.

  • Public Transport

    From other parts of Dhaka, the most convenient way to reach Bahadur Shah Park is by bus. Look for buses heading towards Sadarghat; many of these routes will have stops near the park. Alight at a stop near Jagannath University or Johnson Road. From there, it's a short walk to the park. Bus fares typically range from BDT 20 to BDT 50 depending on the distance and type of service.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Pathao are readily available throughout Dhaka. Simply enter 'Bahadur Shah Park' or 'Johnson Road, Dhaka' as your destination. Be mindful of traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. A ride from Gulistan to Bahadur Shah Park typically costs between BDT 150 to BDT 400, depending on traffic and the time of day. Negotiate the fare beforehand with CNG auto-rickshaws.

  • Rickshaw

    Rickshaws are a common mode of transport in Old Dhaka and can be a convenient option for reaching Bahadur Shah Park from nearby locations. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short rickshaw ride in the area should cost between BDT 80 to BDT 150, depending on the distance and your bargaining skills.

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Discover more about Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank

Located in the heart of Old Dhaka, the Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank is a historical landmark that provides a tangible link to the city's colonial past and showcases the ingenuity of 19th-century engineering. Constructed in 1878, this imposing red-brick structure was Dhaka's first overhead water tank, playing a crucial role in the city's early water distribution. Standing adjacent to Bahadur Shah Park, the water tank's unique architecture immediately captures attention. Its design, resembling a five-story building crowned with a dome, demonstrates advanced building techniques for its time. The tank's red-brick walls, constructed using 'Surki' (a traditional brick powder mix), have withstood the test of time, witnessing over a century of Dhaka's evolution. In its prime, the Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank was essential in providing clean water to Dhaka's residents. Water was pumped from treatment plants and stored in the elevated tank, ensuring a reliable supply even during pump failures or crises. This innovative system significantly contributed to public health by safeguarding the city's population from waterborne diseases and epidemics. As Dhaka's infrastructure developed, the water tank's function became obsolete. The exact date of its decommissioning is uncertain, with some accounts suggesting it ceased operations during the Pakistan era, while others claim it was around two decades ago. Today, the 145-year-old tank stands as a non-functional monument, a relic of a bygone era. Despite its historical significance, the Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank has faced neglect and challenges. For many years, the interior was occupied and used for various purposes, including a shrine's business space, with makeshift shops lining its walls. This raised concerns about the preservation of the monument and its historical integrity. However, the Capital Development Authority (RAJUK) declared the Bahadur Shah Park Water Tank a historical monument in May 2020. Surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of Old Dhaka, the water tank provides a tranquil escape amidst the bustling city. Visitors can stroll through Bahadur Shah Park, admire the tank's architecture, and reflect on the stories it holds. The park is a popular gathering spot for locals, offering a green oasis in the heart of the city. Bahadur Shah Park also features other historical monuments, including memorials commemorating soldiers who died during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and an obelisk dedicated to Khwaja Hafizullah, a prominent figure in Dhaka's history.

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