The population and growth of Dhaka as a megacity

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, stands as one of the world's most densely populated megacities with a population of over 17 million. This city is experiencing rapid growth, attracting economic migrants from across the country who seek better opportunities. The high population density creates significant challenges in terms of housing and infrastructure.

Key statistics on Dhaka's population

• Population size - Exceeds 17 million, making it a major urban centre.
• Growth rate - Recognised as one of the fastest-growing cities globally due to continuous migration.
• Density - Holds the title of the most densely populated megacity, leading to overcrowding in many areas.
• Slum population - Around a quarter of residents live in crowded slums, according to World Bank data.

The role of the informal sector in Dhaka's economy

The informal sector plays a crucial part in Dhaka's economy, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population. This sector includes unregulated and unregistered work that is not taxed or monitored by the government. Estimates suggest that a significant proportion, possibly exceeding 60%, of the city's residents may rely on informal activities for their income, either fully or partially.

Characteristics of the informal sector

• Diverse activities - Encompasses a wide range of jobs such as street vending, small-scale manufacturing, and personal services.
• Economic significance - Offers a means of survival for many who lack access to formal employment opportunities.
• Lack of regulation - Operates outside formal economic systems, meaning workers often miss out on legal protections and benefits.

The benefits and costs of informal activities

While the informal sector provides essential support for many of Dhaka's residents, it comes with both advantages and significant drawbacks. These activities influence the city's economy and the quality of life for those involved.

Benefits of informal activities

• Affordable goods and services - Supplies a variety of low-cost products and services, making them accessible to people with limited income.
• Survival mechanism - Acts as a critical lifeline for individuals and families struggling to meet basic needs in a challenging urban environment.

Costs of informal activities

• No social protections - Workers lack access to healthcare or unemployment benefits, leaving them vulnerable during illness or job loss.
• Workplace hazards - High exposure to risks such as accidents or harmful working conditions without safety measures.
• Legal uncertainty - Informal workers often face an unclear legal status, which can lead to exploitation or lack of rights.
• Discrimination - Many experience social or economic discrimination due to the nature of their work.
• Poverty cycle - Low and unstable earnings prevent individuals from escaping poverty, as there are few opportunities for advancement.

The impact of informal work on children in Dhaka

One of the most troubling aspects of the informal sector in Dhaka is the widespread involvement of children. An estimated over 550,000 children work in this sector, often under harsh and dangerous conditions, missing out on education and a proper childhood.

Conditions faced by child workers

• Long working hours - Many children work from early morning until late at night, with little time for rest or play.
• Low earnings - On average, they earn the equivalent of about $0.75 (US) per day, which is barely enough to contribute to family survival.
• Types of work - Jobs include begging, scavenging, domestic service, and acting as fare collectors in informal transport systems like rickshaws, for which Dhaka is famously known as the rickshaw capital of the world.

Exposure to dangers:

• Street crime and violence.
• Drug exposure and sexual abuse.
• Health risks from toxic fumes and carrying heavy loads.

Consequences of child labour:

• Poor working conditions lead to severe health problems and hinder physical and mental development.
• Working prevents access to schooling, trapping children in a cycle of poverty with little hope of improvement.

The living conditions and challenges faced by Dhaka's population

The rapid urbanisation and high population density in Dhaka create significant challenges for its residents, particularly those in the informal sector or living in slums. These conditions exacerbate social and economic inequalities within the city.

Urban challenges in Dhaka

• Overcrowding - The dense urban landscape, filled with closely packed multi-storey buildings, reflects extreme population pressure and limited space.
• Slum living - A large proportion of the population resides in overcrowded slums with inadequate access to basic services like clean water and sanitation.
• Infrastructure strain - The rapid growth outpaces the development of necessary infrastructure, leading to issues with transport, housing, and utilities.
• Social inequality - Economic disparities are evident, with many residents unable to break free from poverty due to limited opportunities and the dominance of informal work.

These challenges highlight the complex interplay of population growth, economic activities, and urban planning in shaping the lives of Dhaka's inhabitants.