Muktangan, located at the heart of Dhaka, was once a vibrant center of political movements and democratic activities. This park served as a hub for rallies, meetings, and demonstrations. Today, years of neglect and illegal occupation have left it unusable for citizens. Rent-a-car businesses, makeshift shops, scrapyards, and waste dumping have eroded the historic and cultural significance of the park.

From Open Ground to Parking Zone

Stretching from Zero Point to Purana Paltan intersection, the entire area has now turned into a parking ground. Rows of microbuses and private cars stand inside the park. Small shops and even a mosque have occupied the footpaths, while scrap depots and waste containers of the city corporation have made the surroundings dirty and unhygienic. Overflowing garbage often turns the inner grounds muddy, destroying the park’s natural environment.

Rent-a-Car Syndicate’s Grip

Becoming a member of the local rent-a-car association allows access to the park for vehicle parking. According to insiders, the monthly fees collected are used to “manage” local administration, police, and political leaders. A similar business operates along the Secretariat wall, where parking costs are lower. Whenever there is a risk of government drives, vehicles are moved beforehand to avoid disruption.

A Noah van driver said,
“We pay monthly fees as per the association’s rules. This used to be an open field, but now cars are everywhere. For our livelihood, we have no choice but to park here. If the government provides an alternative, we are ready to vacate the space.”

Public Suffering

Footpaths around Muktangan are now occupied by makeshift shops, leaving pedestrians struggling to move. Parking zones along the main road worsen traffic congestion. Locals said where there was once open green space and seating, now only cars and shops dominate the scene.

A Lost Heritage

During the Ershad regime, political rallies were shifted from Paltan Maidan to Muktangan. Many historic movements began here. But with time and mismanagement, Muktangan has lost its role as a center for public gatherings. Senior politicians fear that unless it is restored, Dhaka will lose one of its few free spaces for public expression.

Mahmudur Rahman Manna, President of Nagorik Oikya, said,
“The purpose of Muktangan was genuine, but its small size created limitations. If restored, it could once again serve as a venue for rallies. But unless the rent-a-car business and illegal occupation are removed, this will not be effective. Proper rehabilitation of those evicted is also necessary.”

Experts’ Opinion

Adil Muhammad Khan, President of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners, stated,
“Muktangan is not just a park—it is part of our history and heritage. Unfortunately, instead of preservation, it is being exploited for economic purposes. The city corporation and other authorities are indifferent. Immediate policies and regulations are needed to preserve and restore such historic spaces.”

Administration’s Response

Efforts to contact the chief officer of Dhaka North City Corporation’s property department were unsuccessful. However, additional officer-in-charge Marufa Begum Neli said she was unaware of the situation but assured that written complaints would be addressed.

Conclusion

Citizens view the current state of Muktangan with deep concern. Illegal occupation, extortion, and administrative negligence have stripped the park of its original character. Urban planners and political leaders believe that with proper planning and strict measures, Muktangan can regain its lost identity, once again serving as an open space for rallies, social activities, and public gatherings.