Khulna District is one of the key administrative districts in the southwestern part of Bangladesh. It is part of the larger Khulna Division and serves as a significant economic and cultural hub for the region. Here’s a more detailed look at various aspects of the district:
1. Geographical Location and Borders
Khulna District is bordered by the Bagerhat District to the east, Satkhira District to the west, Jessore District to the north, and the Bay of Bengal and Sundarbans mangrove forest to the south.
The Sundarbans, one of the largest mangrove forests in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies within the southern part of the district. This forest is not only crucial for biodiversity but also serves as a protective shield against cyclones and tidal surges.
2. Administrative Structure
- Khulna District is divided into 9 upazilas (sub-districts), including:
- Khulna Sadar
- Batiaghata
- Dacope
- Dumuria
- Koyra
- Paikgachha
- Phultala
- Rupsa
- Terokhada
- The district capital is Khulna city, which is also one of the largest cities in Bangladesh and the third-largest after Dhaka and Chittagong.
3. Economy and Industry
- Agriculture: Agriculture is a significant part of the district’s economy, with rice, jute, and sugarcane being the primary crops. The district is known for producing large quantities of jute, once called the “golden fiber” of Bangladesh due to its economic importance.
- Fishing and Aquaculture: Khulna is a key area for shrimp farming, particularly in coastal areas where extensive shrimp and prawn farms contribute to the country’s export revenue. Crab farming has also seen growth in recent years.
- Industrial Sector: Khulna has a strong industrial base with jute mills, shipyards, and other manufacturing units. The Khulna Shipyard, one of the oldest shipyards in Bangladesh, contributes significantly to the local economy.
- Mongla Port: Located close to Khulna city, the Mongla Port is the second-largest seaport in Bangladesh and plays a crucial role in international trade, especially for goods bound for or coming from western Bangladesh and neighboring countries.
4. Tourism and Natural Resources
- Sundarbans: The district’s proximity to the Sundarbans attracts tourists, researchers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the unique mangrove ecosystem, which is home to the Bengal tiger, spotted deer, saltwater crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
- Rivers and Waterways: The district is crisscrossed by several rivers, including the Rupsha River, Bhola River, and Shibsha River, which play a critical role in irrigation, transportation, and fisheries.
- Natural Disasters: Khulna, being close to the coast, is prone to natural disasters such as cyclones and tidal surges. The Sundarbans help reduce the impact of these disasters.
5. Education and Institutions
- Khulna is home to several higher education institutions, making it a center for academic learning in the region. Notable institutions include:
- Khulna University (KU): A public university offering a wide range of academic disciplines, with an emphasis on research.
- Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET): One of Bangladesh’s leading institutions for engineering and technology education.
- Several other colleges, medical institutions, and vocational training centers also contribute to the educational landscape of the district.
6. Transportation and Connectivity
- Roads: Khulna is well connected by road, with highways linking it to major cities like Dhaka and Jessore.
- Railway: There is a railway connection between Khulna and other parts of Bangladesh, including Dhaka, allowing easy transportation of goods and passengers.
- Waterways: The rivers of Khulna are vital for both passenger and cargo transportation. Boats and launches are common means of travel between remote areas and the city.
- Air Transport: The nearest airport to Khulna is Jessore Airport, which is about 70 kilometers away. It serves domestic flights to and from Dhaka.
7. Cultural Significance
- Khulna has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the traditions of southwestern Bangladesh. Folk music, dances, and festivals such as Durga Puja, Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), and various regional fairs are celebrated with enthusiasm.
- The district is also known for its traditional crafts, including handicrafts made from jute, and its diverse culinary traditions, which include fish-based dishes, reflecting the abundance of rivers and aquatic life in the region.
8. Environmental and Developmental Challenges
- Climate Change: Being a coastal district, Khulna is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, saline water intrusion, and increasingly frequent cyclones.
- Urbanization: Khulna city is growing rapidly, and with urbanization comes challenges such as pollution, traffic congestion, and the need for sustainable infrastructure development.
In conclusion, Khulna District is a region of immense ecological, economic, and cultural importance. Its close proximity to the Sundarbans, combined with its role in the agricultural and industrial sectors, makes it a vital district in Bangladesh.
