Nestled in Southern Asia, bordered by the majestic Bay of Bengal, between the lush landscapes of Burma and the vast expanses of India, lies Bangladesh. A country where the past and present coalesce to tell a story of resilience, diversity, and unparalleled natural beauty. With an area spanning 148,460 sq km, Bangladesh is a testament to nature’s artistry and human perseverance.
Geography and Climate
The geography of Bangladesh is as diverse as its culture. With land boundaries that stretch for 4,413 km, including Burma for 271 km and India for 4,142 km, the country is a tapestry of greenery and water. Its 580 km coastline opens up to the Bay of Bengal, presenting breathtaking vistas and a gateway to the aquatic bounty. The terrain is predominantly an alluvial plain, courtesy of the Ganges Delta, making it fertile but also prone to flooding. Southeastern regions offer a change in scenery with hilly landscapes, providing a habitat for a myriad array of flora and fauna.
Bangladesh’s climate adds another layer of complexity to its ecological fabric. Characterized by a tropical monsoon climate, it includes a mild winter (October to March), a hot, humid summer (March to June), and a warm, rainy monsoon season (June to October) that rejuvenates the land but also poses significant challenges.
Natural Resources and Land Use
The richness of Bangladesh’s land is evident in its natural resources—natural gas, arable land, timber, and coal among others. Approximately 70.10% of the country’s terrain is dedicated to agricultural use, with 11.10% covered in forests. Despite its small geographical footprint, Bangladesh boasts a staggering irrigation coverage of 53,000 sq km, facilitating extensive agricultural production that forms the backbone of its economy.
Population and Urbanization
As of July 2020, Bangladesh’s population stands at an estimated 162,650,853. With Bangla as the official language, the Bangladeshi identity thrives through its people’s warmth, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. Urbanization is rapidly changing the country’s demographic landscape, with approximately 38.20% of the population residing in urban areas. Dhaka, the pulsating capital, alone houses over 21 million souls, making it not just the political and cultural hub but also the heartbeat of the nation.
Agriculture and Industry
The agrarian sector of Bangladesh is a testament to the country’s resourcefulness and hard work. Producing a wide array of goods such as rice, jute, tea, wheat, sugarcane, and tobacco, the fertile land sustains both the economy and the populace. On the industrial front, Bangladesh has carved a niche in the global marketplace, particularly with its garment industry which stands alongside jute, cotton, leather, and textile industries as significant contributors to the country’s GDP.
Moreover, the country’s export portfolio includes knitwear, agricultural products, frozen food, jute goods, and leather, with major export partners being Germany, the US, and the UK. Imports are dominated by cotton, machinery, chemicals, and foodstuffs, primarily from China, India, and Singapore.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its economic strides, Bangladesh faces considerable challenges. Electrification remains a critical issue, with a significant portion of the population lacking access to electricity. Moreover, the country’s low elevation and susceptibility to climate change pose ongoing threats to its development and sustainability.
Nevertheless, Bangladesh continues to exhibit remarkable resilience and adaptability. Its strategic location as a bridge between South and Southeast Asia, combined with a young, dynamic workforce, presents significant opportunities for growth and development in the coming years.
Conclusion
Bangladesh, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and indomitable spirit, stands as a beacon of perseverance in the face of adversity. As it navigates the complexities of development and modernization, it remains a nation rooted in the strength of its people and the fertility of its land. The future of Bangladesh shines bright, promising a journey filled with growth, innovation, and an ever-deepening sense of community.
Country data
| Country Code | BG |
| Region | South Asia |
| Surface | 148460 sq km |
| Land Surface | 130170 sq km |
| Water Surface | 18290 sq km |
| Agricultural Surface | 70.10% |
| Forest Surface | 11.10% |
| Lowest Elevation Point | Indian Ocean 0 m |
| Highest Elevation Point | Keokradong 1,230 m |
| GDP / capita | $4,200 (2017 est.) |