The historic Iraqi Field, adjacent to Azimpur New Paltan Lane in Dhaka, which had once been a spacious playground, is now overrun by makeshift markets, depriving children and residents of a vital breathing space in the densely packed city.
At nearly four acres, Iraqi Field is a privately owned land and is not included in the development plans of the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).
According to locals, the ground once belonged to members of an Iraqi community who lived in the area long ago. As their descendants no longer reside there, the field remains without formal caretakers. Part of it serves as a graveyard, where members of the Iraqi community were buried in the past.
Dhaka’s shortage of playgrounds has long been a pressing issue. Experts estimate that the number of usable fields in the capital is only about 5 percent of what is necessary.
Even among these few remaining open spaces, most have been encroached upon, misused, or left in poor condition.
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During a recent visit, this correspondent found a bustling market on the field with more than 50 temporary stalls selling vegetables, fish, meat, clothes, toys, and other essentials throughout the day. In the evening, the space turns into a busy food market, continuing till late at night.
“During the previous government, we had to pay Tk 150-300 daily to extortionists, but since August 5, 2024, we haven’t had to pay anyone,” said Ashraf, a vegetable vendor.
Md Biplob, a toy seller, argued that the market benefits the community. “It’s convenient for local people to shop here. We also get to earn a living.”
For children, however, the reality is different. A small portion of the field that still remains open turns barren and dusty during dry months and muddy during monsoons.
“We play here because there’s no other playground nearby,” said teenager Anindya Roy. “But there’s hardly any grass, and the shops leave little room to play.”
Another teenager, Jishan Islam, said, “The ground is rough, so whenever we fall, we get cuts and bruises.”
Older residents recall a very different Iraqi Field.
“Before independence, there was a boundary wall here. It was demolished later, and since then locals have used it for sports. I played here, then my son, and now even my grandchildren,” said Abdul Haque, an elderly local resident.
“However, for years, the field has been occupied by shops with political backing. Police sometimes drive them away, but they always return once an understanding is reached. Locals also don’t complain much because it’s convenient for their grocery shopping,” he added.
Ashish Sen, another elderly resident, expressed regret. “I have so many childhood memories here. The field was larger, with trees all around. I wish it could be restored for people of all ages to use it for walking and sports. With a little effort from the city corporation, it can be revived.”
However, the DSCC says the matter is out of its hands.
“This field is not owned by the city corporation, so its maintenance is not our responsibility,” said Hasiba Khan, property officer of DSCC.
“If the government hands it over to us, we will certainly take care of it,” the official added.
