DIPAN NANDY

The historic Iraqi Field, adjacent to Azimpur New Paltan Lane in Dhaka, which had once been a spacious playground, is now overrun by makeshift markets, depriving children and residents of a vital breathing space in the densely packed city.

At nearly four acres, Iraqi Field is a privately owned land and is not included in the development plans of the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC).

According to locals, the ground once belonged to members of an Iraqi community who lived in the area long ago. As their descendants no longer reside there, the field remains without formal caretakers. Part of it serves as a graveyard, where members of the Iraqi community were buried in the past.

Dhaka’s shortage of playgrounds has long been a pressing issue. Experts estimate that the number of usable fields in the capital is only about 5 percent of what is necessary.

Even among these few remaining open spaces, most have been encroached upon, misused, or left in poor condition.

During a recent visit, this correspondent found a bustling market on the field with more than 50 temporary stalls selling Md For

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