ABSTRACT

EVALUATING SPATIAL SUITABILITY FOR THE LIVING CHOICES OF FLOATING POPULATIONS IN DHAKA CITY

Journal: Social Values and Society (SVS)
Author: Nazmun Naher Forazi, Zannatul Ferdous

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

DOI: 10.26480/svs.01.2025.53.58

This study explores the dynamics of Dhaka’s floating population individuals who lack permanent residence and formal identification, leaving them marginalized and voiceless in society. Data were collected through a survey of 70 respondents, supplemented by non-participant observation and informal interviews at three key locations, including Sadarghat, Kamalapur, and the Dhaka University area. Findings reveal that limited formal education among this population restricts access to stable employment, with unemployment being a significant driver of migration to Dhaka. This study investigates the varying dimensions of livability across three key areas. Kamalapur demonstrates strength in providing clean water and sanitation facilities, Sadarghat stands out for its robust physical infrastructure, including markets, religious spaces, and floating accommodations at the launch terminal; while the Dhaka University area stands out for its street cleanliness and ease of access, reflective of its academic setting. Social conditions further shape these urban experiences, with employment opportunities prominent in Kamalapur and Sadarghat, and strong community networks and safety features evident in all three sites. Notably, food security and personal safety are emphasized within the university zone. The research also uncovers income inequalities; Kamalapur faces the highest disparity, Dhaka University the lowest, and Sadarghat occupies a middle ground.

Pages 53-58
Year 2025
Issue 1
Volume 7