Debra Efroymson, HealthBridge Ayesha Arafat Ikra, Work for a Better Bangladesh (WBB) Trust

12-15 million inhabitants Great desire for outdoor recreation Very limited public space Existing public spaces often taken over for shopping malls, car sales, etc. Almost nobody addresses this issue

Sohrawardi Uddan Ramna park

Low income Mixed use (ground floor shops, residences above) High density Strong community A playing field

Walking path Trees Two benches

Cricket, of course! Walking Cycling School programs, competitions Fairs Concerts Political activities Mud play

Not enough trees Insufficient benches Walking path narrow Dominance by boys/young men No toilet, drinking fountain, lights

What public spaces exist in Dhaka Where are they Who do they serve How do people reach them What happens in them Reasons for not visiting research_publication/71

Walking: 35% Socializing with friends: 27% Enjoy surroundings: 27% Play sports, cultural entertainment, exercise, eat…

Walking: 73% Rickshaw: 11% Facilities for walking/rickshaw: Nil

Improve sanitation and safety Provide furniture, shelter, and shade Plan for maintenance Engage the community

Protect and expand public space network Prioritize walking over other modes Cater to all ages, sexes, and activity limitations

Input to Dhaka Strategic Plan Advocacy to protect, expand green spaces Work on universal access Collaboration with different organizations, media, government

Comprehensive: Network building Research Materials/publication Capacity building Media Advocacy New focus on universally accessible design

Attractive and free outdoor environments Usable by all people (age, sex, income, physical limitations…) Walking city, playing city, social city!!