Trust of investors lies in Bashundhara Smart City
Daily Sun Report, Dhaka
Published: 23 Sep 2025, 11:52 AM
The rise of a planned city has transformed the lives of millions. Bashundhara Residential Area has written a new chapter in the history of urbanization in Bangladesh, becoming a symbol of trust in both investment and living. In Dhaka’s real estate market, Bashundhara has become a major hub for investors. Many farmers became millionaires by selling their land, while businessmen earned up to 300 times profit by constructing flats.
At the same time, those who live here permanently enjoy comprehensive urban living amenities—education, healthcare, entertainment, and security—that are unparalleled elsewhere. Initiated in the 1980s through the visionary and bold efforts of Bashundhara Group Chairman Ahmed Akbar Sobhan, this housing project is now considered the country’s most successful model city.
From Dream to Reality:
Upon entering Bashundhara Residential Area, it is clear that this is unlike any other area of Dhaka. Wide roads, tree-lined streets, broad sidewalks, and modern buildings define the landscape.
In the 1980s, many doubted the purchase of such a large plot far from the city center. But Chairman Ahmed Akbar Sobhan said, “Dhaka will eventually expand northward. This place will become the heart of the new Dhaka.”
Today, that dream has become reality. Covering nearly 20 square kilometers, Bashundhara is not just a residential project; it has become a symbol of the country’s urban development.
A REHAB official noted that Bashundhara Residential Area is the largest brand in the country’s housing sector, providing a safe investment option for investors.
Viduyt Kumar Bhowmik, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Sales & Marketing of Bashundhara Group, told Kaler Kantho, “There’s no reason not to call Bashundhara a smart city. It offers all the amenities expected in a modern urban area.” Highlighting its investment value, he said, “In 1987, land could be bought for 125,000 Taka. Today, the average price per katha ranges from 1–2 crore Taka, with some plots reaching 3–4 crore. Over three decades, land prices in Bashundhara have risen nearly 300 times. People buy land here not only to live but also as a secure investment.”
Projects and Smart City Development:
Several projects in Bashundhara are being implemented by Volume Zero Limited. Principal Architect and MD Mohammad Foyez Ullah told Kaler Kantho, “Bashundhara Residential Area has become the heart of Dhaka’s urban expansion, integrating planned infrastructure, security, education, healthcare, sports, and commercial opportunities.”
He emphasized that Bashundhara is not just housing but a full-fledged smart city, offering long-term safe and profitable investment. By implementing lifestyle projects comparable to Gulshan-Dhanmondi and modern, eco-friendly designs, Bashundhara has redefined the country’s housing sector.
From Farmer to Millionaire:
The rise of Bashundhara has transformed the lives of many. Local resident Khoka Mia, once a farmer, is now the owner of a popular Bashundhara restaurant. He said, “I sold land in 1987 for 125,000 Taka. Many said it was a mistake, but I used that money to start a business. Today, I own three houses and two cars. Had I held onto the land, I might have been even wealthier, but I am happy with how life has changed.”
Stories like Khoka Mia’s are countless. Research shows that at least 70% of farmers who sold land in Bashundhara saw significant improvements in their living standards. Some started large businesses, sent their children abroad for higher education, or built modern homes with advanced amenities.
Land and Flat Prices Soar:
Plots that once cost 20–30 lakh Taka now go for 2–5 crore. Flat prices have also multiplied. Engineer Mohammad Zahirul Haque said, “Investing here is virtually risk-free. Flats sell out even before they are launched. Many overseas buyers book units after just viewing videos.”
Businessman Mohammad Saleh added, “I bought two flats in 2015 for 90 lakh each. Today, each is worth 2.5 crore. It’s not just investment; it’s future security.” This remarkable value increase stems from planned urban development and a strong foundation of trust.
Modern Life at Your Fingertips:
Residents of Bashundhara enjoy nearly all daily necessities within the area.
Top-Quality Education and Healthcare:
The residential area hosts some of the country’s leading English and Bangla medium schools, colleges, madrasas, and universities, including North South University, Independent University Bangladesh (IUB), American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB), International School Dhaka (ISD), Viqarunnisa Noon School & College, Play-Pen, Bashundhara Public School & College, and Hardcove International School. Parents can be confident about their children’s education.
Resident Mahfuza Hosain Mou said, “My daughter studies at Hardcove School. I drop her by bus in the morning and she returns safely in the evening. We don’t have to endure hours of Dhaka traffic jams.”
In healthcare, Bashundhara is exemplary, housing world-class Evercare Hospital and United Hospital. A Bangladeshi expatriate doctor said, “I no longer need to take my sick parents abroad. World-class care is available right here.”
Ongoing projects like Bashundhara Medical City, Afroza Begum Diagnostic Center, and Bashundhara i-Hospital & Research Institute are further enhancing healthcare accessibility.
Strict Security and Green Environment:
Every entry point in Bashundhara has tight security. 24/7 guards and AI-assisted CCTV provide maximum protection.
Resident Mushikur Rahman said, “I’ve lived here since 2010. The biggest attractions are the planned layout and security. Wide roads, greenery, clean sidewalks, and organized traffic distinguish Bashundhara from other parts of Dhaka. There are no roadside pan or cigarette stalls below homes, so disturbances are minimal.”
Shopping and Entertainment:
Bashundhara offers modern supermarkets, shopping malls, and branded restaurants and cafés. Three additional modern malls are coming soon. Entertainment facilities include a cineplex, international-standard Gold’s Gym, Sports City, and a convention center.
Trusted Destination for Investors and Expats:
Bashundhara Residential Area has become the country’s largest and most reliable real estate brand. Anwarul Haque, Managing Director of a leading real estate company, said, “In the last five years, we have handed over nearly 400 flats in Bashundhara. Buyers’ confidence is so strong that most flats are sold before the project begins. Overseas buyers finalize bookings after just seeing videos—a near-impossible feat elsewhere in Bangladesh.”
Expats prefer Bashundhara for investment. Farhana Rahman, living in Canada, said, “I wanted a safe address in Dhaka. Bashundhara gave me that assurance. I feel secure investing here.”
Zahidul Islam, working in the Middle East, added, “I bought a plot ten years ago. Today, its value could help me start a large business back home. Bashundhara has shown me the way to fulfill my dreams.”
Experts Praise Bashundhara as a Model City:
Architect Mohammad Foyez Ullah said, “Bashundhara has created a balance for Dhaka. Though a private initiative, it is undoubtedly a successful urban model in terms of planning.”
Dr. Mahfuz Kabir, Research Director at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS), said, “The real estate sector contributes significantly to Bangladesh’s GDP. Bashundhara goes beyond selling land or flats; it has generated multifaceted economic activity spanning banking, insurance, construction, healthcare, and education.”
On the Path to a Full Smart City:
Bashundhara Residential Area is being developed as a fully integrated smart city. Viduyt Kumar Bhowmik said, “We want Bashundhara to become more than a residential area—a full smart city with digital traffic management, green energy, smart security systems, and environmentally friendly initiatives. By 2026, residents will enjoy all smart city benefits.”
To realize this vision, six metro stations—Bhatara, New Bazar, Nadda, Jowarsahara, Bashundhara, and Mastul—are being constructed, ensuring rapid and easy connectivity across Dhaka.
Moktar Hossain Chowdhury, Acting Secretary of Bashundhara Welfare Society, said, “We have over 15,000 members. We aim to provide services they expect, including transport management. Soon, we will inaugurate a modern, well-lit community park. We also plan eye camps and care units for senior citizens. With Bashundhara Group’s support, residents will benefit from state-of-the-art parks, libraries, and senior care facilities.”
Expansion Plans:
Viduyt Kumar Bhowmik noted, “Phase 4 has begun, with new projects around the 300-feet corridor of Purba Chalukendra. Drainage, security, and all infrastructure are being planned simultaneously. Further development will follow once this phase concludes.”
He added, “By 2026, all smart city facilities will be operational—security, educational institutions, entertainment, shopping, and connectivity. Bashundhara is not only unique for living but also for long-term investment.”