Utara

Utara (sometimes spelled Uttara) is a residential and commercial suburb located in the northern part of Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. Developed as a planned township in the late 20th century, Utara was intended to alleviate the pressure of urban growth on central Dhaka and to provide a modern, organized living environment. The area is bounded by the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway to the north, the Airport Road to the east, and the Shahjalal International Airport to the south, positioning it as a strategic hub for both transportation and commerce.

The suburb is divided into several sectors, each numbered and featuring a mix of high‑rise apartments, detached houses, shopping malls, schools, hospitals, and government offices. Notable institutions include the Bangladesh University of Professionals, the Bangladesh Institute of Bank Management, and the National Institute of Preventive and Social Medicine. Retail complexes such as the Jamuna Future Park, one of South Asia’s largest shopping malls, and several smaller markets serve the local population.

Utara’s infrastructure includes well‑maintained roads, a comprehensive public‑transport network, and proximity to the Shahjalal International Airport, facilitating both domestic and international travel. The area also benefits from a number of parks and green spaces, providing recreational opportunities for residents. Despite its planned nature, rapid population growth has led to challenges such as traffic congestion and pressure on utilities, prompting ongoing municipal efforts to improve services and sustain development.

Overall, Utara represents a significant example of modern urban planning in Bangladesh, blending residential, educational, and commercial functions while continuing to evolve in response to the demands of a growing metropolitan population.