Mymensingh

This article is about the city. For the district, see Mymensingh District. For the sub-district, see Mymensingh Sadar Upazila. For the division, see Mymensingh Division.

Mymensingh ময়মনসিংহ
Metropolis
Mymensingh City aerial view Shashi Lodge Banks of Old Brahmaputra Mymensingh Circuit House Bangladesh Agricultural University Mymensingh Medical College
Nicknames:  Momenshahi, Momishing, Moishing, Nasirabad, Green City
Mymensingh Location of Mymensingh in Bangladesh Mymensingh Mymensingh (Bangladesh)
Coordinates: 24°45′14″N 90°24′11″E
Country	Bangladesh
Division	Mymensingh Division
District	Mymensingh District
Establishment	1787
Granted city status	1787
Government
• Type	Mayor–Council
• Body	Mymensingh City Corporation
• Administrator	Md. Mokhtar Ahmed
• City Council	33 constituencies
• Parliament	1 constituencies
Area
• Urban	32.42 km2 (12.52 sq mi)
• Metro	95.34 km2 (36.81 sq mi)
Elevation	19 m (62 ft)
Population  (2022)
• Urban	436,857
• Urban density	13,000/km2 (35,000/sq mi)
• Metro	586,319
• Metro density	6,100/km2 (16,000/sq mi)
Demonym	Moymonshinga
Languages
• Official	Bengali • English
Time zone	UTC+6 (BST)
Postal codes	2200, 2201, 2202, 2203, 2204, 2205, 2206, 2207, 2208
UN/LOCODE	BD MYM
Calling code	+88091
Police	Mymensingh Range Police
Website	mcc.gov.bd

Mymensingh (Bengali: ময়মনসিংহ, romanized: Maẏamanasinha) is a metropolitan city and capital of Mymensingh Division, Bangladesh. Located on the bank of the Brahmaputra River, about 120 km (75 mi) north of the national capital Dhaka, it is a major financial center and educational hub of north-central Bangladesh. It is the administrative center of Mymensingh District and Mymensingh Division. As of 2022, Mymensingh City Corporation is the 7th largest city in terms of area and the 8th largest in terms of population in the country, with a population of 576,927 people.

The city was constituted by the British East India Company on 1 May 1787. According to Ministry of Public Administration, Mymensingh is ranked 4th in district status. The population density of Mymensingh city is 44,458/km² (115,150/sq mi), making it the second most densely populated city in Bangladesh. Mymensingh attracts 25 percent of all the health tourists visiting Bangladesh. Mymensingh is an anglicization of the name Momen Singh, referring to a Muslim ruler called Shah Momin or Momin Singh, an ethnic Bengali Muslim ruler. Its elevation is over 19 m above sea level, the highest of Bangladesh's major cities. Mymensingh is close to Tura, a city in Meghalaya from the Gobrakura Land Port.

Mymensingh is associated with the Old Brahmaputra river, handcrafted duvets called Nakshikantha (Bengali: নকশীকাঁথা), and a rural ballad called Maimansingha Gitika. The cadet college established in Tangail in 1963 was called Momenshahi Cadet College. The city is well-known for educational institutions.

Etymology

The name Mymensingh (Bengali: ময়মনসিংহ) carries historical and linguistic significance rooted in the cultural and political evolution of northern Bangladesh. This article explores the origins, historical context, and linguistic interpretations of the name, drawing from regional folklore, colonial records, and scholarly research.

The most widely accepted theory traces the name to Momen Shah (or Mymensingh in colloquial Bengali), a 16th-century Sufi saint and local administrator under the Mughal Empire. The suffix "-shahi" or "-singh" (Bengali: সিংহ, meaning "lion") was often appended to place names to denote administrative or military significance. Over time, "Momen Shah" evolved phonetically into "Mymensingh."

Another interpretation links the name to the Sanskrit term "Mahimasha" (Bengali: মহিমাংশ), meaning "glorious portion," possibly referencing the region's fertile plains along the Brahmaputra River. British colonial documents from the 18th century refer to the area as "Momenshahi," later anglicized to "Mymensingh." The 1908 The Imperial Gazetteer of India notes the name's association with a local Zamindar (landowner) named Momen Khan, though this claim lacks definitive evidence.

History

Provincial map of Bengal showing Greater Mymensingh Area (present Mymensingh Division with Tangail and Kishoreganj) in 1917

Mymensingh is one of the sixteen old districts of Bangladesh which was constituted by the British East India Company on 1 May 1787. Being more than 220 years old, Mymensingh has a rich cultural and political history. In the beginning, Begunbari was chosen as the headquarters of the district. However, the district headquarters was relocated to Mymensingh when Begunbari devastated by a flash flood. Earlier Mymensingh was called Nasirabad, after Nasiruddin Nasrat Shah. During the British Raj, this district was ruled by Talukdar Zamindars and most of the inhabitants of the town were Hindus, forming 78% of the population in the last census before Partition. However, many Hindu families, including the Talukdar Zamindars left Bangladesh during Partition in 1947. A second spell of exodus took place following the Indo-Pak war of 1965. Many people born and raised Mymensingh have left for West Bengal since the 1960s. The exodus continues albeit at a slower pace.

Muslims began migrating into the town beginning from the early 20th century. The Vidyamoyee Uccha Balika Bidyalaya and Muminunnesa Women's College have played a great role in educating Bengali Muslim women. A majority of first-generation successful Bangladeshi women have attended these schools and colleges, including the first woman justice of the High Court of Bangladesh, Justice Nazmun Ara Sultana. On 1 December 1969, Tangail subdivision was separated from Mymensingh, and District of Tangail was officially formed. Similarly, in 1977, the new district of Jamalpur (including Sherpur) were formed.

Pakistani Eastern Command plan for the defence of East Pakistan from 1967 to 1971 (generic representation—some unit locations not shown).

The nine-month liberation war of Bangladesh began on March 27, 1971. Mymensingh remained free from the occupation army until April 23rd, 1971. The Pakistani occupation forces deserted Mymensingh on December 10th, and the Mukti Bahini resistance group took over on December 11, just five days ahead of the victory of Dhaka on December 16th.

Geography and climate

Cloudy sky over Brahmaputra River

The city has no officially defined geographical limits. Since the 1980s the city has expanded with fast urbanisation. Mymensingh city is clearly marked by the Old Brahmaputra River flowing along its north. Shambhuganj is situated on the other side of the Brahmaputra, connected by the Shambhuganj Bridge.District]]. Other ends of the city are marked respectively by the beginning of the Bangladesh Agricultural University campus, the Mymensingh Medical College, Army cantonment and, finally, Sultanabad, a township built for the followers of Aga Khan. A railway line connecting Dhaka with northern districts, built between 1885 and 1899, passes through the city and divides it into two sides.

The climate of Mymensingh is slightly colder than Dhaka, as it is closer to the Himalayas, and sufficient to be a monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cwa) instead of a tropical savanna or tropical monsoon climate as found further south in Bangladesh. The monsoon starts in May or June and continues till August. It rains heavily and sometimes for days and weeks. During the monsoon, the temperature varies between 25 and 31 °C (77.0 and 87.8 °F). The temperature falls below 15 °C (59 °F) in winter which is spread over December and January and may well include November and February. The highest temperature is felt during April–May period, where it may reach as high as 40 °C (104 °F). High humidity causes heavy sweating during this period. For western travelers, the best time to visit is between November and February.

Climate data for Mymensingh (1991-2020, extremes 1883-present)
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record high °C (°F)	32.3 (90.1)	35.5 (95.9)	41.1 (106.0)	43.3 (109.9)	42.8 (109.0)	41.0 (105.8)	41.6 (106.9)	40.2 (104.4)	38.2 (100.8)	37.6 (99.7)	34.8 (94.6)	31.0 (87.8)	43.3 (109.9)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)	24.0 (75.2)	27.0 (80.6)	30.5 (86.9)	31.7 (89.1)	31.8 (89.2)	31.7 (89.1)	31.5 (88.7)	31.9 (89.4)	31.7 (89.1)	31.5 (88.7)	29.5 (85.1)	25.8 (78.4)	29.9 (85.8)
Daily mean °C (°F)	17.3 (63.1)	20.6 (69.1)	24.4 (75.9)	26.7 (80.1)	27.6 (81.7)	28.4 (83.1)	28.5 (83.3)	28.8 (83.8)	28.3 (82.9)	26.9 (80.4)	23.0 (73.4)	18.9 (66.0)	24.9 (76.8)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)	11.8 (53.2)	15.0 (59.0)	19.0 (66.2)	22.2 (72.0)	23.8 (74.8)	25.7 (78.3)	26.2 (79.2)	26.4 (79.5)	25.8 (78.4)	23.4 (74.1)	18.0 (64.4)	13.6 (56.5)	20.9 (69.6)
Record low °C (°F)	4.2 (39.6)	4.5 (40.1)	8.9 (48.0)	11.2 (52.2)	15.2 (59.4)	19.4 (66.9)	22.8 (73.0)	20.8 (69.4)	20.8 (69.4)	17.8 (64.0)	8.3 (46.9)	3.8 (38.8)	3.8 (38.8)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	8 (0.3)	16 (0.6)	38 (1.5)	141 (5.6)	312 (12.3)	410 (16.1)	423 (16.7)	329 (13.0)	305 (12.0)	192 (7.6)	14 (0.6)	7 (0.3)	2,195 (86.6)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1 mm)	1	2	4	9	15	20	23	21	18	8	1	1	123
Average relative humidity (%)	77	72	71	77	81	86	87	86	86	83	79	79	80
Mean monthly sunshine hours	183.0	202.2	216.2	203.0	187.3	133.7	138.7	151.8	148.9	209.9	224.1	200.0	2,198.8
Source 1: NOAA
Source 2: Bangladesh Meteorological Department (humidity 1981-2010)

Administration

Mymensingh City, one of Bangladesh’s oldest and most historically significant urban centers, serves as the administrative, economic, and cultural nucleus of Mymensingh Division. Governed by the Mymensingh City Corporation (MCC), the city’s administration operates under a multi-tiered framework that blends elected leadership with bureaucratic oversight. This article provides an in-depth exploration of its governance structure, historical evolution, key institutions, challenges, and innovative initiatives, supported by references to academic works, government reports, and news archives.

Mymensingh DC office

Mymensingh’s administrative roots trace back to the British colonial period. Established as a municipality in 1869, it became a focal point for trade, education, and governance in northern Bengal. The city’s strategic location along the Brahmaputra River facilitated its growth as a commercial hub, attracting merchants, educators, and colonial administrators. Post-independence, Mymensingh evolved from a municipality to a Poura Shava (Town Council) in the 1980s, and finally to a City Corporation in 2018 via Government Gazette No. 21/2018. This transition recognized its expanding urban footprint, which now spans approximately 91.3 km² and hosts over 500,000 residents.

mymensingh city corporation

Administrative Structure

The MCC’s governance framework is defined by the Local Government (City Corporation) Act, 2009, which delineates roles for elected officials and administrative bodies.

Elected Leadership

1. Mayor: The mayor, elected through direct public vote for a five-year term, functions as the chief executive. The incumbent mayor oversees policy formulation, budget approval (currently ৳3.2 billion annually), and interdepartmental coordination. Key responsibilities include:
   • Approving infrastructure projects (e.g., road expansions, flood embankments).
   • Advocating for federal funding and public-private partnerships.
   • Chairing the MCC Council, composed of ward councillors and committee heads.
2. Ward Councillors: The city is divided into 33 wards, each represented by a councillor elected for five years. Councillors act as grassroots liaisons, addressing localized issues such as:
   • Sanitation and waste collection.
   • Maintenance of community centers and playgrounds.
   • Resolving property disputes and land-use violations.
3. Reserved Seats: To promote gender inclusivity, 11 seats are reserved for women councillors, who participate in committees on education, health, and social welfare.

Bureaucratic Framework

1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Appointed by the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives (LGRD), the CEO manages daily operations, ensuring alignment with national policies. The role includes:
   • Supervising departmental heads (e.g., Engineering, Health).
   • Implementing decisions ratified by the mayor and council.
   • Coordinating with the Mymensingh District Administration on law enforcement and disaster response.
2. Key Departments:
   • Engineering Department: Responsible for urban infrastructure, including road construction (e.g., the Mymensingh Bypass Road), drainage systems, and public buildings like the Mymensingh Town Hall.
   • Health and Sanitation Department: Operates 10 clinics, conducts mosquito control drives, and manages 12 waste collection zones.
   • Revenue Department: Collects property taxes, trade licenses, and lease fees, contributing ৳1.1 billion annually to the MCC budget.
   • Education and Social Welfare Department: Administers 15 primary schools, adult literacy programs, and cultural festivals like the Mymensingh Folk Festival.

Collaborative Governance Mechanisms

The MCC collaborates with national and regional entities to address complex urban challenges:

1. Mymensingh District Administration:
   • Manages law enforcement through the Metropolitan Police.
   • Coordinates flood relief efforts with the Disaster Management Bureau.
2. Public Works Department (PWD): Implements large-scale projects like the Mymensingh Railway Station Expansion.
3. Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (WASA): Provides potable water to 75% of households and maintains 120 km of sewage lines.
4. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): BRAC and UNDP support maternal health programs and climate resilience initiatives.

Key Functions and Services

1. Urban Planning and Development

The Master Plan 2020–2040 outlines strategies for sustainable growth, including:

• Zoning Regulations: Designating residential, commercial, and industrial areas to curb haphazard construction.
• Transportation Networks: Expanding the Mymensingh-Rangpur Highway and introducing bus rapid transit (BRT) corridors.
• Environmental Conservation: Restoring wetlands like Ramerkanda Beel and planting 50,000 trees under the Green City Project.

2. Public Health and Sanitation

• The MCC operates 10 primary healthcare centers, offering free vaccinations and maternal care.
• Sanitation Campaigns: Weekly cleanup drives and community-led composting initiatives reduce landfill pressure.
• Disease Control: Partnerships with BRAC and UNICEF target dengue outbreaks and malnutrition.

3. Education and Cultural Preservation

• MCC-Run Schools: 15 primary schools provide free education to 8,000 students annually.
• Cultural Programs: The Mymensingh Folk Festival and Pohela Boishakh celebrations highlight local traditions, including Baul music and Nakshi kantha embroidery.

4. Disaster Preparedness

• Flood Management: The MCC maintains 25 flood shelters and collaborates with the Bangladesh Meteorological Department for early warnings.
• Cyclone Preparedness: Training programs for 5,000 volunteers and GPS-based evacuation routes.

Challenges in Urban Governance

1. Population and Infrastructure Strain:
   • A 4.2% annual population growth rate exacerbates housing shortages and overcrowded schools.
   • Slum Expansion: 22% of residents live in informal settlements lacking water and electricity.
2. Traffic Congestion:
   • Narrow colonial-era roads and 50,000 registered rickshaws cause daily gridlock.
   • Delays in completing the Mymensingh Elevated Expressway prolong mobility issues.
3. Waste Management Crisis:
   • Only 40% of 250 metric tons of daily waste is properly processed.
   • Illegal dumping in the Brahmaputra River threatens aquatic ecosystems.
4. Revenue Generation:
   • Low tax compliance (55%) limits infrastructure investment.
   • Dependence on federal grants for 60% of the budget.

Innovative Initiatives

1. Digital Governance:
   • MCC Citizen App: Allows residents to report issues (e.g., potholes, illegal construction) and pay taxes online. Over 15,000 users registered since 2023.
   • GIS Mapping: Tracks land use, drainage systems, and disaster-prone areas in real time.
2. Climate Resilience Projects:
   • Solar Streetlights: Installed in 12 wards, reducing energy costs by 25%.
   • Urban Farming: Rooftop gardens promoted in partnership with FAO.
3. Gender-Inclusive Policies:
   • Women’s Councillor Forums: Advocate for safer public spaces and childcare facilities.
   • Skill Development Programs: Train 1,200 women annually in tailoring and IT.

Mymensingh City’s administration exemplifies the complexities of governing a rapidly urbanizing South Asian city. While strides in digital innovation, environmental sustainability, and gender inclusivity are commendable, systemic challenges—population pressure, revenue deficits, and climate vulnerabilities—require sustained investment and participatory governance. The MCC’s success hinges on strengthening partnerships with NGOs, optimizing tax systems, and prioritizing citizen engagement in policymaking.

Demographics

Mymensingh City, a historic urban center in northern Bangladesh, serves as the administrative and cultural heart of Mymensingh Division. Its demographic landscape reflects the interplay of rapid urbanization, socio-economic disparities, and cultural diversity. This article examines the city’s population dynamics, socio-economic characteristics, and key challenges, drawing on census data, academic studies, and government reports to provide a comprehensive overview.

Population Growth and Urbanization

Mymensingh has experienced exponential population growth since the mid-20th century. In 1950, the city’s population was approximately 65,043, but by 2025, it surged to 509,237 within its metropolitan boundaries. This growth, averaging 2.35% annually, is driven by rural-to-urban migration and natural population increase. Migrants are often drawn to the city’s economic opportunities in agriculture, textiles, and education.

Historical population

Year	Pop.	±%
1991	188,713	—
2001	227,201	+20.4%
2011	258,040	+13.6%
2022	577,000	+123.6%
sources:citypopulation.de

The city’s population density of 44,458 inhabitants per square kilometer makes it the second-most densely populated urban area in Bangladesh, trailing only Dhaka. Urban sprawl has expanded the metropolitan area to 95.34 km², with projections suggesting a rise to 574,000 residents by 2030. However, this rapid growth strains infrastructure, leading to overcrowded housing, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation.

Age and Gender Dynamics

Mymensingh’s population is notably youthful, with a median age of 22.2 years, slightly below Bangladesh’s national median of 23.2. Adolescents and young adults dominate the demographic profile: 32.8% of residents are aged 15–21, reflecting high birth rates and a burgeoning youth population. Children under five account for 16.8% of the population, underscoring the need for expanded childcare and education services.

Gender disparities persist, though they are less pronounced than in rural areas. The city’s sex ratio is nearly balanced, with 50.5% male and 49.5% female residents. However, literacy rates reveal subtle inequalities: 76.56% of males are literate compared to 72.82% of females, a gap influenced by cultural norms and limited access to girls’ education in peri-urban zones.

Education and Literacy

Education remains a critical challenge. The overall literacy rate in Mymensingh Division stands at 67.09%, significantly below the national average of 74.66%. In 2025, the Mymensingh Education Board recorded the lowest pass rate (63.22%) in the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exams nationwide. Contributing factors include teacher shortages, inadequate school infrastructure, and economic barriers that force adolescents into informal labor.

Key institutions like Bangladesh Agricultural University and Mymensingh Medical College anchor the city’s education sector, offering specialized programs in agriculture, engineering, and healthcare. Despite their contributions, rural-urban divides persist: urban literacy rates (81.28%) far exceed rural rates (71.56%), highlighting systemic inequities in resource distribution.

Economic Landscape

The economy of Mymensingh is anchored in agriculture, textiles, and education. Approximately 35% of the workforce engages in farming, particularly rice and jute cultivation, while 25% work in textile factories such as Square Textiles. The education and healthcare sectors employ 20% of residents, including teachers, nurses, and researchers.

Emerging industries like technology are reshaping the job market, with 10% annual growth in IT roles. Income levels vary widely: agricultural workers earn 5,000–15,000 annually, whereas healthcare professionals and IT specialists earn up to 25,000–30,000. Remote work is also rising, with 20% of the workforce engaged in freelance or digital roles, though this trend remains concentrated among urban, educated youth.

Health and Well-being

Healthcare access is a pressing concern. The city’s 10 public clinics serve over 500,000 residents, resulting in a ratio of 1 doctor per 3,500 people. Overcrowded facilities struggle to address preventable diseases like dengue and waterborne illnesses, exacerbated by inadequate waste management and pollution from the Brahmaputra River.

Mental health issues are alarmingly prevalent, particularly among adolescents. A 2025 study found 47.8% of youths aged 15–21 exhibited symptoms of depression, often linked to parental illiteracy, poverty, and academic pressures. Anxiety affects 32.8%, with higher rates among rural males facing limited economic prospects.

Cultural Diversity and Migration

Mymensingh’s demographics are shaped by its cultural mosaic. While Bengali Muslims form the majority, ethnic minorities like the Garo, Bihari, and Koch communities contribute to its diversity. The city’s proximity to India’s Meghalaya state fosters cross-border cultural exchange, particularly with the Garo and Khasi tribes.

Religions in Myemsingh City Corp. (2022)
Religion			Percent
Islam			90.80%
Hinduism			8.79%
Other or not stated			0.41%

Internal migration drives much of the city’s growth, with 60% of newcomers arriving from rural Mymensingh and neighboring districts. Many settle in informal slums, where 22% of the urban population lacks access to clean water and electricity. This influx strains housing and sanitation systems, deepening urban poverty.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Mymensingh faces significant hurdles in achieving sustainable development:

1. Education Inequality: High dropout rates, especially among girls, perpetuate cycles of poverty.
2. Healthcare Gaps: Overburdened facilities and mental health stigma limit well-being.
3. Income Disparities: A Gini coefficient of 0.4999 (2022) reflects stark wealth divides.
4. Environmental Stress: River erosion and unplanned urbanization threaten ecosystems.

Government initiatives aim to address these issues through digital literacy programs, gender-inclusive policies, and infrastructure upgrades. If implemented effectively, these measures could reduce poverty by 15% by 2030 and support a projected population of 600,000.

Economy

Mymensingh City, located in northern Bangladesh, is a vital economic and cultural hub. Known for its agricultural heritage, educational institutions, and growing industrialization, the city plays a significant role in the regional economy. Below is a comprehensive, expanded breakdown of its economy, with embedded reference links to authoritative sources.

mymensingh_charpara

Mymensingh City, situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, has a population of approximately 550,000 (as of 2022). Its economy is anchored in agriculture, agro-processing, education, healthcare, and small-scale manufacturing. The city’s strategic location along the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway (N3) enhances its connectivity to national markets. The Brahmaputra River basin’s fertile alluvial soil and abundant water resources have historically made Mymensingh a center for agrarian activities, while recent investments in education and infrastructure are driving urbanization and industrial diversification.

1. Agriculture and Agro-Processing

Agriculture is the cornerstone of Mymensingh’s economy, employing 38% of the local workforce BBS Labour Force Survey. The Brahmaputra River basin provides fertile alluvial soil, enabling year-round cultivation of diverse crops:

• Rice: Mymensingh is a major contributor to Bangladesh’s rice production, with Boro, Aman, and Aus varieties cultivated across 85% of its arable land. The region produces 1.2 million metric tons annually, accounting for 25% of the division’s total output. Innovations such as hybrid rice seeds and mechanized harvesting, promoted by the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), have boosted yields by 20% since 2015.
• Jute: Known as the "Golden Fiber," jute cultivation spans 15,000 hectares in Mymensingh, producing 15% of Bangladesh’s raw jute. Local farmers supply raw jute to mills in Dhaka and Khulna, while small-scale cooperatives process jute into handicrafts, generating $5 million annually in export revenue.
• Vegetables: Mymensingh is a key supplier of potatoes, brinjals, tomatoes, and leafy greens to Dhaka’s markets. The Char Kalibari Vegetable Cluster alone produces 50,000+ tons annually, supported by cold storage facilities and government-backed irrigation projects.

The Mymensingh Agricultural Wholesale Market, established in 1982, is one of northern Bangladesh’s largest trading hubs. It handles 500+ tons of produce daily, connecting farmers to distributors in Dhaka, Sylhet, and Chattogram. The market also hosts a digital auction system, reducing middlemen interference and increasing farmer profits by 30%.

2. Fisheries and Livestock

Mymensingh’s aquatic resources and livestock sectors are critical to its rural economy:

• Aquaculture: The district is a national leader in pangasius (pangash) and tilapia farming, with 12,000+ ponds producing 45,000 metric tons of fish annually. The Brahmaputra Floodplain Aquaculture Project has trained 5,000+ farmers in sustainable practices, increasing yields by 25%.
• Open-Water Fishing: The Brahmaputra and Old Brahmaputra rivers support Hilsa and carp fishing, contributing 10% of Bangladesh’s inland fish catch. However, overfishing and pollution have reduced Hilsa stocks by 15% since 2010.
• Dairy and Poultry: BRAC Dairy sources 20,000 liters of milk daily from Mymensingh’s dairy farmers, supporting 20,000+ households. Poultry farms, concentrated in Trishal and Fulbaria, produce 1.2 million broiler chickens monthly, supplying Dhaka’s restaurants and supermarkets.

3. Industry and Manufacturing

Mymensingh’s industrial sector is growing, albeit slowly, due to limited foreign investment:

• Textiles and Garments: Small-scale factories in Kewatkhali and Sadhar produce knitwear, sarees, and lungis for domestic markets. The Mymensingh Textile Cluster employs 8,000+ workers, mostly women, and generates $15 million annually.
• Food Processing: Over 50 rice mills and 20 edible oil refineries operate in the city, processing local harvests into packaged goods. The Al-Amin Oil Mills, established in 1995, produces 10,000+ liters of soybean oil daily.
• Handicrafts: Traditional Nakshi Kantha (embroidered quilts) and bamboo crafts are cultural staples. Over 2,000 artisans work in cooperatives, earning $2 million annually from domestic sales and exports to Europe.

4. Education and Healthcare

Mymensingh’s education and healthcare sectors are pillars of its economy:

• Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU): Established in 1961, BAU is a global leader in agricultural research. Its Seed Technology Division has developed drought-resistant rice varieties, benefiting 500,000+ farmers nationwide. The university employs 1,200+ faculty and staff and attracts 15,000 students annually, injecting $10 million+ into the local economy through student spending.
• Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MMCH): A 1,000-bed facility serving 2,000+ patients daily from northern Bangladesh. The hospital’s Cancer Research Center, funded by the World Health Organization (WHO), has reduced regional cancer mortality rates by 12% since 2018.

5. Services and Retail

The service sector is expanding due to urbanization and digitalization:

• Banking and Finance: Sonali Bank and BRAC Bank dominate the sector, offering microloans to farmers and SMEs. In 2022, $50 million+ was disbursed to agro-based businesses.
• Retail: Notun Bazar and Shesh More Market are bustling commercial hubs, hosting 1,000+ shops selling textiles, electronics, and groceries. Annual sales exceed $30 million, with 40% growth since 2020 due to e-commerce integrations.
• Tourism: Historical sites like the Mymensingh Rajbari and Zainul Abedin Museum attract 50,000+ visitors annually, generating $2 million in tourism revenue.

6. Transportation

Mymensingh’s connectivity fuels trade and mobility:

• Roadways: The N3 Highway connects Mymensingh to Dhaka (120 km south), handling 5,000+ vehicles daily, including trucks transporting jute, rice, and textiles.
• Railways: The Mymensingh Railway Station, built in 1905, links the city to Dhaka, Jamalpur, and Netrokona. It serves 10,000+ passengers daily and transports 500+ tons of cargo, primarily agricultural goods.
• River Transport: The Brahmaputra River facilitates cargo movement to Dhaka and Chittagong. BIWTA ferries transport 200+ tons of goods daily, including fish, rice, and construction materials.

Economic Challenges

Mymensingh faces several systemic challenges:

• Flooding: Annual monsoon floods inundate 30% of the city, causing $50M+ in agricultural losses and displacing 100,000+ residents. The 2022 floods destroyed 15,000 hectares of crops.
• Urbanization: The population is growing at 3.2% annually, straining housing, sanitation, and healthcare. 60% of slum dwellers lack access to clean water.
• Energy Shortages: Only 75% of households have reliable electricity, with daily outages lasting 4–6 hours. Industries rely on costly diesel generators, raising production costs by 20%.

Future Initiatives

To address these challenges, several projects are underway:

• Mymensingh Export Processing Zone (EPZ): A 100-acre industrial zone near the N3 Highway aims to attract foreign investment in textiles, food processing, and electronics. The EPZ is projected to create 10,000+ jobs by 2025.
• Digital Hub: A tech park near BAU will incubate IT startups, with a focus on agritech and e-commerce. The government has allocated $5 million for high-speed internet infrastructure.
• Flood Resilience: The Brahmaputra Embankment Project, funded by the World Bank, will construct 50 km of flood barriers and modern drainage systems by 2026, protecting 200,000+ residents.

Public utilities

Main article: Public utilities of Mymensingh

Electricity

Mymensingh’s electricity infrastructure traces its origins to the British colonial era (late 19th to mid-20th century). The city’s first power system, "Batir Kol" or the "Electricity Mechanics" (Bengali: বাতির কল), was established in the early 20th century near the District Court. This petroleum-fueled plant generated direct current (DC) electricity for streetlights and affluent households. By the 1960s, Mymensingh transitioned to alternating current (AC) after being connected to the national grid via a substation at Kewatkhali, which remains a critical hub for power distribution.

Modern Infrastructure

• Kewatkhali Power Plant: Built in the 1970s, this 60 MW thermal plant initially served as the primary power source. Though now supplemented by newer facilities, it remains operational during peak demand.

Mymensingh Power Plant

• Shambhuganj Combined Cycle Power Plant: Commissioned in 2018, this 210 MW plant (four 35 MW gas turbines and one 70 MW steam turbine) on the Brahmaputra River’s banks supplies electricity to Mymensingh and adjacent districts.

Shutiakhali solar-power

• Rural Electrification: As of 2023, 95% of urban households and 75% of rural areas are electrified. However, frequent outages (averaging 4–6 hours daily in summer) plague industrial zones due to grid overload and aging infrastructure.

Challenges

• Load-Shedding: Industrial areas like BSCIC Mymensingh face productivity losses during power cuts.
• Theft and Losses: Illegal connections contribute to a 12% transmission loss, above the national average.

Water Supply

The first organized waterworks were established in 1889 by Maharaja Surya Kanta Acharya, ruler of the Bhowal Estate. Named Raj Rajeswari Water Works after his wife, the system included an overhead reservoir at Ganginarpar, underground cast-iron pipelines, and public hydrants. Household taps were rare until the 1960s, with most residents relying on communal wells and ponds.

Current Infrastructure

• Treatment Plants: The MCC operates two treatment plants (Ganginarpar and Shambhuganj) with a combined capacity of 45 million liters per day (MLD), insufficient for the city’s demand of 60 MLD.
• Coverage: Approximately 70% of the city’s 576,927 residents have piped water access. Rural areas depend on 3,500+ tube wells and seasonal ponds, many contaminated with arsenic.
• Quality Issues: A 2022 study by the Department of Public Health Engineering (DPHE) found 22% of urban water samples contaminated with E. coli due to leaky pipelines.

Future Projects

• Brahmaputra River Water Supply Scheme: A 150 MLD plant funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) aims to resolve shortages by 2026.

Telecommunications

Evolution

• Early Systems: The city’s first Public Call Office (PCO) opened near Kachari Mosque in 1991. A manual telephone exchange in 1996 served 500 subscribers.
• Digital Transition: In 2001, a digital exchange with 5,000 lines was installed, upgraded in 2008 to 20,000 lines.

Modern Services

• Mobile Networks: Coverage by Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink, and Teletalk includes 4G services in 90% of the city. Rural 4G penetration lags at 55%.
• Internet: MCN and Banglalion provide fiber-optic connections to 60% of urban households. Rural areas rely on 3G/4G mobile internet.

Challenges

• Fiber Optic Cable Damage: Unplanned road excavations disrupt connectivity.
• Affordability: Only 40% of low-income households can afford broadband.

Natural Gas Supply

Infrastructure

Mymensingh was connected to the national gas grid in 1996 via a pipeline from Bakhrabad Gas System. Urban households (30%) and industries like ACI Pharmaceuticals and Square Textiles prioritize supply, while rural areas rely on LPG cylinders.

Issues

• Pressure Fluctuations: Industries report 20% production losses during low-pressure periods.
• Expansion Delays: A proposed pipeline to Trishal Upazila remains stalled due to funding gaps.

Postal Services

Operations

The Mymensingh Head Post Office, established in 1869, handles 15,000+ parcels and letters monthly. The Railway Mail Service (RMS) sorts mail on the Dhaka-Mymensingh route, though 30% of addresses lack house numbers, complicating delivery.

Modernization

• Digital Services: EMS Courier and e-Commerce Delivery hubs have expanded, yet traditional postal workers in khaki uniforms still deliver 70% of rural mail.

Road Infrastructure

Urban Roads

• Colonial-Era Network: Concrete roads built in the 1960s, such as the Town Hall to Railway Station spinal road, remain functional but congested.
• Key Projects: The Mymensingh Bypass Road (2018) reduced traffic in the city center by 25%.

Rural Connectivity

The Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) oversees:

• Union Roads: 1,715 km paved under the Greater Mymensingh Infrastructure Development Project (GMRIDP).
• Bridges and Culverts: 250+ structures built since 2020 to improve monsoon accessibility.

Street Lighting

• Historical: Cast-iron posts with kerosene lamps (early 1900s) were replaced by electric bulbs in the 1960s.
• Modernization: Solar-powered LED lights in 12 wards save ৳5 million annually in energy costs.

Operations

• Collection: 12 zones with 50 trucks collect 250 metric tons of daily waste.
• Disposal: The Kewatkhali Landfill receives 70% of waste; the rest is illegally dumped in the Brahmaputra River.

Initiatives

• Community Composting: 15 wards participate in organic waste recycling.
• Plastic Ban: MCC prohibits single-use plastics in markets, though enforcement is lax.

Governance and Civic Services

Mymensingh City Corporation (MCC)

• Budget: ৳572.11 crore (US$47 million) for 2023–24, with 40% allocated to infrastructure.
• Digital Services: The MCC Citizen App (15,000+ users) enables tax payments and grievance reporting.

Climate Resilience

• Flood Management: 25 flood shelters and a 15 km embankment along the Brahmaputra.
• Early Warning Systems: Collaboration with the Bangladesh Meteorological Department provides SMS alerts to 80% of households.

Mymensingh’s public utilities reflect a blend of historical infrastructure and modern innovations. While projects like the Brahmaputra Water Supply Scheme and solar streetlights demonstrate progress, systemic issues like waste mismanagement and energy deficits require urgent attention. Strengthening governance, expanding digital integration, and prioritizing climate adaptation will be crucial for sustainable urban development.

Cuisine

Chinese restaurant in Mymensingh

Mymensingh City, a historic urban center in northern Bangladesh, is renowned for its rich culinary traditions that reflect the cultural, agricultural, and geographical diversity of the region. Situated along the Brahmaputra River, the city’s cuisine is shaped by its fertile plains, freshwater resources, and historical influences from Mughal, British, and indigenous Bengali culinary practices. This article explores the unique flavors, signature dishes, and cultural significance of Mymensingh’s food heritage, supported by historical records, academic studies, and local narratives.

Historical and Cultural Influences

Mymensingh’s culinary identity is deeply rooted in its agrarian lifestyle and historical interactions. During the Mughal era (16th–18th century), the region became a hub for spice trade and rice cultivation, introducing dishes like biryani and korma that blend Persian techniques with local ingredients. The British colonial period (19th–20th century) further diversified the cuisine through the introduction of tea cultivation and baked goods, while indigenous communities like the Garo and Koch contributed forest-based ingredients such as bamboo shoots, wild mushrooms, and smoked meats.

Post-independence, Mymensingh’s cuisine evolved into a fusion of rural and urban flavors. The city’s proximity to the Brahmaputra River ensured a steady supply of freshwater fish, while its fertile plains supported rice, lentils, and seasonal vegetables. Today, Mymensingh’s food culture remains a testament to its multicultural history, with dishes varying between Hindu, Muslim, and indigenous traditions.

Staple Foods and Ingredients

The foundation of Mymensingh’s cuisine lies in its rice-based dishes, reflecting Bangladesh’s status as a leading rice producer. Varieties like Bashmoti (aromatic long-grain rice) and Kalijira (miniature aromatic rice) are staples, often paired with:

• Fish: Freshwater varieties like hilsa (ilish), rohu, and catfish are central to the diet, prepared as maacher jhol (fish curry) or bhapa (steamed with mustard paste).
• Lentils: Masoor dal (red lentil soup) and cholar dal (split Bengal gram) are daily accompaniments.
• Vegetables: Seasonal produce like shaak (leafy greens), potol (pointed gourd), and brinjal (eggplant) are cooked in shorshe bata (mustard gravy) or bhaji (stir-fried).

1. Shatkora Mangsho

A hallmark of Mymensingh’s cuisine, this dish combines mutton or beef with shatkora, a bitter citrus fruit native to northeastern Bangladesh. The meat is slow-cooked with spices, yogurt, and shatkora peel, creating a tangy, aromatic curry often served at weddings and festivals.

2. Bhapa Pitha

A traditional steamed rice cake made from ground rice flour and jaggery, often stuffed with coconut or sesame. Bhapa pitha is a winter delicacy, symbolizing the harvest season and communal bonding.

3. Muro Ghonto

A flavorful fish-head curry made with hilsa or rohu heads, cooked in a mustard-turmeric gravy with potatoes and served with rice. This dish highlights the Bengali ethos of minimizing food waste.

4. Chitol Macher Muithya

Fish dumplings made from chitol fish (featherback), mashed with spices, shaped into balls, and cooked in a light curry. This labor-intensive dish is reserved for special occasions.

Street Food and Snacks

Mymensingh’s bustling markets and riverfronts offer a vibrant street food culture:

• Jhalmuri: Puffed rice mixed with chopped vegetables, mustard oil, and chili, sold by roadside vendors.
• Tehari: A spicy rice dish cooked with beef or mutton, influenced by Mughlai cuisine and popular among laborers.
• Chitoi Pitha: Fermented rice pancakes served with molasses or spicy chutney, often eaten as a breakfast snack.

Festive and Ritual Cuisine

Food plays a central role in Mymensingh’s cultural and religious celebrations:

• Eid-ul-Fitr: Families prepare semai (vermicelli pudding), korma, and biriyani to mark the end of Ramadan.
• Durga Puja: Hindu communities offer bhog (community meals) featuring khichuri (spiced rice-lentil dish), labra (mixed vegetables), and payesh (rice pudding).
• Poush Parbon: The winter harvest festival is celebrated with pitha (rice cakes), gur (date palm jaggery), and doi (yogurt).

Modern Influences and Challenges

Urbanization and globalization have introduced new trends, such as fast food chains and fusion restaurants, blending traditional flavors with international dishes like burgers stuffed with fish patties. However, these changes threaten to overshadow indigenous culinary practices. Overfishing in the Brahmaputra River has reduced the availability of local fish, while younger generations increasingly favor convenience foods over time-intensive traditional recipes.

Efforts to preserve Mymensingh’s food heritage include:

• Culinary festivals showcasing regional dishes.
• Documentation projects by institutions like the Bangladesh Agricultural University.
• Eco-tourism initiatives promoting rural homestays with traditional meals.

Mymensingh’s cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of history, ecology, and community. From the citrus-infused curries of its Mughal past to the humble street snacks enjoyed by its bustling markets, the city’s food culture remains a cornerstone of its identity. Preserving these traditions amid modernization requires balancing innovation with respect for ancestral knowledge, ensuring that Mymensingh’s flavors continue to nourish future generations.

Landmarks

The Old Town Hall, built by Maharaja Surya Kanta Acharyya had hosted thousands of drama, meeting and cultural functions since 1878. It was demolished in 2006 and is being rebuilt by the Mymensingh Pourashava.

Shashi Lodge is one of the historical place inside the city. It was built in 1905.

Bangladesh Parishad, situated at Chhoto Bazar Road, the regional centre of Pakistan Council in Mymensingh, set up in 1969, came to be known as Bangladesh Parishad after establishment of Bangladesh in 1971. It was a government institution under the Ministry of Information and housed a public library with a collection of books and magazines. The library has 35,656 volumes on all subjects. It also had a hall to hold literary and cultural functions. Till the 1980s, Bangladesh Parishad was a hub of cultural activity of post-liberation Mymensingh. It was most active in the late 1970s when Ashraf Ali Khan was its chief executive.

Shishu Academy was set up under the initiative of president Ziaur Rahman in 1980. Its Mymensingh office was opened in the 1990s.

The first Shahid Minar was built in 1958 on crossing of the Amrita Babu Road, close to Mymensingh Pourashava. It was relocated to the Town Hall premises in the mid-1990s.

Amarabati Natya Mandir was the first theatre built in the heart of Mymensingh town in the 1930s. Later it was converted into a cinema named Chayabani. The Town Hall became the sole venue for staging a play or drama. Bahubrihi is one of the drama circles that has played a key role in sustaining the drama movement in Mymensingh since the 1970s. Singing was part of daily life for most people since the 19th century. Mithun Dey and Sunil Dhar were two local music teachers since the 1960s. Sunil Dhar established a music school at Atharo Bari Building in the 1980s. Folk Ballads: Maimansingha Gitika. There are three cinema halls in Mymensingh town. Most of these halls are very old but still in operation. Cable TV connectivity was launched in 1999 and together with DVD and VCR, most people now prefer home entertainment With Dish Cable Line. However, on special occasions such as Eid, new year, Puja, and other vacations, people still watch movies in the cinema halls. Aloka was the oldest cinema hall, which was demolished in 2006 to make a modern shopping and residential complex. Other cinema halls are Chayabani, Purabi and Shena-Auditorium (closed).

Muslim Institute library is a public library which was established in 1934. The Bangladesh Parishad library has died down since the 1980s. The local Bar also has a library of its own rich in legal books and journals.

Alexander Castle

Sculpture in Soshi Lodge

The "Alexander Castle" or "Lohar Kutir" as it is locally known, is where Maharaja Surya Kanta Acharya invited Grand Duke Boris of Russia and General Sir George White, and built it for his stay and a same Russian styled also built by the Ponni of Tangail. Rabindranath Tagore also was in Alexandra castle for participating a citizen gathering. This earthquake-proof steel and timber building was built after his much vaunted "Crystal Palace" or "Rang Mahal" as it was locally known, was destroyed by the Great Bengal Earthquake of 12 June 1897. Subsequently, "Shashi Lodge" or "Mymensingh Palace" was built at the site of "Rang Mahal". However Maharaja Surya Kanta died before "Soshi Lodge" could be completed. It was completed by Maharaja Soshi Kanta Acharyya. Both the buildings had once contained innumerable works of art, artefacts, sculptures and antiques collected from all over the world. Both these buildings have been declared as National Heritage Monuments. But unplanned development already damaged the scenario of rare Russian architecture in this country.

Brahmaputra River

Bipin Park is a small park near Boro Bazaar right on the Brahmaputra River.

Museums

The Mymensingh Museum was established in 1969. Though its collection comes from the palaces of zamindars of the greater Mymensingh region, it lacks proper preservation.

Zainul Abedin Art Gallery

The Zainul Abedin Museum was established in a house on the Brahmaputra River in 1975. The art gallery includes the paintings of Zainul Abedin, a pioneer of the country's modern art movement, as well as an art school, art cottage, and open-air stage.

The Fish Museum & Biodiversity Center, also known as FMBC, is operated by Bangladesh Agricultural University.

Religious buildings

The Boro Masjid

Bishyanath Temple

Anjuman Eid-gah Maidan

Under the auspices of the governor of East Pakistan Abdul Monem Khan, the Anjuman Eid-gah Maidan prayer ground was established in 1962 on 27 acres (11 ha) of land, including a pond. Every year congregation of Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha are held here in the morning. The prayer ground is walled on sides with coconut trees growing. This place was used to accommodate the Elephants of Maharaj Surya Kanta Acharya in colonial time.

Durga Bari Temple

Durga Bari Temple is one of the main religious centers for the Hindus living in Mymensingh. It is situated in the Durga Bari Road. Hindu Goddess Durga Devi is worshiped here. Kirtan is recited in the temple throughout the week.

Ramakrishna Math and Mission

Ramakrishna Ashrama of Mymensingh is situated at 182, Ramakrishna Mission Road. Ramakrishna Math is a monastic organisation for men brought into existence by Sri Ramakrishna.

St Patrick's Cathedral Church

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Mymensingh is a diocese located in the city of Mymensingh in the Ecclesiastical province of Dhaka in Bangladesh. Bishop Ponen Paul Kubi, CSC, DD is head of the Diocese of Mymensingh. Most of the people in this diocese are from Garo tribal community. Bishop is also a Garo tribal. A total of 76,047 Catholics and 6665 Protestant Christians live here. People are employed as farmers and day laborers in rural areas, and many people live in cities as migrant workers.

Mymensingh Baptist Church

The Mymensingh Baptist Church is located near to the town hall.

Sports

Mymensingh has a rich football history, hosting two of Bengal's oldest tournaments, the Surya Kanta Shield and Lila Devi Shield, both established in 1914. Sponsored by Surya Kanta Aacherjee of the Muktagacha dynasty, the Lila Devi Shield, named after his wife, was played at the District School Ground and popular among school-goers, while the Surya Kanta Shield, held at Circuit House Park, welcomed clubs from Karachi and Calcutta. Initially managed by the Mymensingh Sporting Association (1914–1919), the tournaments were later conducted by Mymensingh District School from 1920, after which both became irregular. The Taj Mahal Shield, Surendra Sarojini Shield and Thompson Cup, were also popular football tournaments in the region. Mymensingh also claims to have the country's oldest football club (alongside Wari Club Dhaka), Mymensingh Mohammedan Sporting Club, apparently established in 1898.

In 1937, when Islington Corinthians toured India and participated in two exhibition matches against Dhaka Sporting Association (DSA) in Dhaka, the majority of the DSA XI hailed from Mymensingh, most notable among them being Pakhi Sen (Bhupendramohon Sengupta), who scored the winning goal for DSA in the first match. The English club also played an exhibition match against the Mymensingh Sporting Association on 23 November, winning 0–6. In 1951, when the first inter-district football tournament was established in Eastern Bengal, Mymensingh District won two of the first three editions. Following the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, the region has prodced national football players such as Abdul Halim and Hassan Al-Mamun.

The "Panditparar Math" is a vast field on the bank of the Brahmaputra, in front of the Circuit House, which is used by the sports persons of the city. It has produced many notable cricket players like Probir Sen, one of the few wicket keepers to stump Don Bradman and Hemanga Bose. The former vice captain of Bangladesh national cricket team, Mahmudullah was born in this district and he served Bangladesh cricket team proudly.

Body building has become a favourite pastime for many of the young adults of the town. The Muslim Institute has a well equipped gymnasium since the 1950s. Physician Abdul Halim was a renowned bodybuilder in the 1960s who became Mr. East Pakistan in a nationwide competition. Farhad Ahmed Kanchon, who later became a Member of the Parliament in the late 1970s, was also a regular. The multipurpose Rafiq Uddin Bhuiyan Stadium, located near Police Lines Road in the district, serves as the main sports venue in Mymensingh.

Education

Main article: List of universities and schools in Mymensingh

Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University

Mymensingh Medical College

Mymensingh Polytechnic Institute

Mymensingh Engineering College (MEC) [(Proposed) Mymensingh University of Engineering and Technology]

Mymensingh City, a historic urban center in northern Bangladesh, is a regional hub for education, renowned for its blend of traditional and modern academic institutions. Home to some of the country’s oldest universities, colleges, and schools, the city plays a pivotal role in shaping Bangladesh’s educational landscape. Mymensingh’s educational legacy dates to the British colonial period (19th–20th century). The city emerged as a center for Islamic education, with madrasas like Qadirganj Jamea Islamia (established in 1860) emphasizing Quranic studies and Arabic literature. In 1908, the colonial government funded Ananda Mohan College, one of Bangladesh’s oldest institutions for secular education, which introduced Western-style curricula in science and humanities.

After Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, Mymensingh witnessed rapid expansion in educational infrastructure. The establishment of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) in 1961 and Mymensingh Medical College (MMC) in 1962 transformed the city into a hub for higher education. By the 1980s, the government prioritized primary education, leading to the opening of over 100 government primary schools across the city.

Primary and Secondary Education

Mymensingh’s primary and secondary education system follows the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) framework, divided into:

1. Primary Education (Grades 1–5): Over 85% of children aged 6–10 are enrolled in 150+ government primary schools, though rural areas face teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms.
2. Secondary Education (Grades 6–10): Notable institutions include Mymensingh Zilla School (1853) and Mymensingh Girls’ Cadet College (1982), both renowned for academic excellence.
3. Higher Secondary (Grades 11–12): Colleges offer science, arts, and commerce streams.

Notable schools in Mymensingh:

• Mymensingh Zilla School
• Bidyamayi Government Girls High School
• Government Laboratory High School, Mymensingh
• Mymensingh Cantonment Board High School
• Mukul Niketan High School, Mymensingh
• Progressive Model School
• Nasirabad Collegiate School
• Police Lines High School
• Mymensingh International School, Momenshahi Cantonment

Notable schools and colleges in Mymensingh:

• Cantonment Public School and College, Mymensingh
• Mymensingh Girls' Cadet College
• Muslim Girls High School and College
• Border Guard Public School and College, Mymensingh
• Mahakali Girls School and College
• Collectorate School and College, Mymensingh

Notable colleges in Mymensingh:

• Ananda Mohan College,
• Muminunnisa Government Mohila College
• Mymensingh Government College
• Shaheed Syed Nazrul Islam College
• Notre Dame College Mymensingh
• Nasirabad University College

• Alamgir Mansur (Mintu) Memorial College
• Hazi Kashem Ali College
• Mymensingh Polytechnic Institute
• Mymensingh Commerce College
• Mymensingh College
• Advanced Residential Model College
• Mymensingh Women's Degree College
• Brahmaputra Residential Model College
• Florens College, Mymensingh

Madrasa Education

Over 50 madrasas operate in Mymensingh, blending religious and modern education. Institutions like Qawmi Madrasa Darul Uloom Mohiuddin emphasize Dars-e-Nizami (Islamic theology), while Alia Madrasas integrate NCTB curricula with Islamic studies.

Higher Education and Research

1. Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU): Established in 1961, BAU is Bangladesh’s premier institution for agricultural research. Its 1,200-acre campus hosts advanced facilities such as the Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), which develops climate-resilient crop varieties. The university’s collaboration with international bodies like the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) has bolstered food security in flood-prone regions.
2. Mymensingh Medical College (MMC): Affiliated with Bangladesh Medical University, MMC trains over 1,000 medical students annually. Its 750-bed teaching hospital serves as a referral center for northern Bangladesh, addressing critical healthcare gaps in rural communities.
3. Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University It is located at Namapara-Battala, Trishal which is a suburb of Mymensingh, some 22 kilometres from Mymensingh urban center. Established in 2006, the university At present more than eight thousand students are studying in the university.

Transportation

Intercity 'Tista Express' heading towards Dhaka.

Mymensingh railway junction

Mymensingh’s transport infrastructure dates to the British colonial period (19th century). The Dhaka State Railway, constructed between 1885 and 1899, linked Mymensingh to Narayanganj to facilitate jute exports to Kolkata14. The Mymensingh Junction railway station, opened in 1886, became a pivotal node in the Assam Bengal Railway network, establishing the city as a logistics center.

Post-independence, road networks expanded to support urbanization. The N3 highway (Dhaka-Mymensingh-India corridor) emerged as a vital artery for regional trade, handling over 15,000 vehicles daily.

Road Transport

Key Roads and Highways

1. N3 Highway:
   • Connects Dhaka to Mymensingh and onward to India’s Meghalaya state via the Gobrakura Land Port.
   • Critical for freight movement, including agricultural goods and textiles.
   • A $394.5 million Dhaka-Joydevpur-Mymensingh Expressway project is underway to upgrade this corridor into a 4-lane controlled-access highway with emergency lanes and intelligent traffic systems.
2. Mymensingh Bypass Road:
   • Built in 2018 to divert traffic from the congested city center, reducing congestion by 25%.
   • Part of the Greater Mymensingh Infrastructure Development Project (GMRIDP), which has constructed 1,715 km of union roads and 5,822 km of village roads since 2020.

Bridges

1. Shambhuganj Bridge:
   • A 1.2 km steel truss bridge over the Brahmaputra River, constructed in 1933.
   • Facilitates freight and passenger movement between Mymensingh and northern districts.
2. Kewatkhali Bridge (Under Construction):
   • A 1.1 km arch steel bridge with a 6 km approach road, funded by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) at $260 million.
   • Aims to divert 30% of city-center traffic by 2026 and improve connectivity to Shambhuganj.

Rail Transport

Mymensingh Junction Railway Station

• Established in 1886, it serves as a junction for the Mymensingh–Gouripur–Bhairab line and Narayanganj–Bahadurabad Ghat line.
• Hosts intercity trains like Tista Express and Brahmaputra Express, catering to 10,000+ daily passengers.
• Modernization efforts include a ৳200 crore ($23 million) upgrade for platforms, CCTV cameras, and parking facilities.

Challenges

• Overcrowding and unsanitary conditions deter passengers.
• Aging tracks limit speed and capacity on routes like the Dhaka-Mymensingh line.

Riverine Transport

The Brahmaputra River remains a vital waterway:

• Shambhuganj Ferry Ghat: Handles 50+ boats daily, transporting jute, rice, and construction materials to Dhaka and Sylhet.
• Limited infrastructure modernization, with most terminals lacking cargo-handling facilities.

Public Transit

Intra-City Mobility

• Auto-rickshaws and Cycle Rickshaws: Over 50,000 registered rickshaws dominate intra-city travel, offering affordable fares but contributing to congestion.
• Buses: Privately operated routes connect key hubs like Kewatkhali Terminal and Notun Bazar, though facilities lack amenities like shelters and ticketing systems.

Inter-City Connectivity

• Shyamoli Paribahan and Ena Transport operate buses to Dhaka, Tangail, and Jamalpur, with fares ranging from ৳150–৳300.

Future Developments

1. Dhaka-Mymensingh Railway Electrification:
   • Plans to convert the line to dual-gauge electric tracks by 2030, reducing travel time to 2.5 hours.
2. Smart Traffic Management:
   • The MCC proposes AI-based signal coordination and e-ticketing for rickshaws to streamline mobility.
3. Sustainable Infrastructure:
   • The AIIB-funded Kewatkhali Bridge includes a Wildlife Management Plan to mitigate impacts on aquatic life and wetlands.

Mymensingh’s transport system reflects its colonial heritage and modern aspirations. While projects like the Kewatkhali Bridge and N3 Expressway promise progress, systemic challenges—congestion, rural connectivity, and environmental sustainability—require strategic collaboration between the MCC, LGED, and international partners. Prioritizing smart technologies and climate-resilient infrastructure will be key to transforming Mymensingh into a regional logistics powerhouse.

Health care and cemeteries

Maharaja Suryakanata set up the first public hospital in Mymensingh along the river Brahmaputra. This is now a leprosy hospital and now called the "S K Hospital." Mymensingh Medical College hospital was established in 1962 and is one of the oldest and biggest hospitals in Bangladesh. Since the end of the 1990s, private investment in the medical sector has gone up and a number of private hospitals of various sizes and clinics have been established. Situated over about 40 acres (16 ha) of land, the Golkibari Cemetery is the largest Muslim cemetery of the town. There is another Muslim graveyard at Kalibari named Kalibari Gorosthan. The Hindu Shmoshanghat in Kewatkhali by the side of Brahmaputra railway bridge and the Christian cemetery of the colonial British are also present, and various other smaller cemeteries.

Media and literature

Bharat Mihir was one of the oldest newspapers published from Mymensingh in British India. Its publication commenced in 1875. After independence in 1971, Habibur Rahman Sheikh published in 1979 the first daily under the name and title Dainik Jahan, following his decade-long trial with weekly Banglar Darpan which had been launched in 1972. He also published a women's monthly under the title Chandrakash for almost a decade. The other newspapers published from the city include Dainik Ajker Bangladesh and Dainik Ajker Khabar. Newspapers published from Dhaka came by train and was available around the noon till the 1980s. Hawkers riding bicycle would deliver newspapers from home to home by the afternoon. As the roadlink with Dhaka improved, buses were used for transportation of Dhaka newspapers. Now newspapers from Dhaka arrive Mymensingh by 9.00 in the morning and are delivered to homes by the noon.

Mymensingh Press Club, situated near Ganginarpar is a vibrant hub for the intellectuals, teachers, literature and cultural activists, in addition to media peoples. It hosts literary events, cultural functions and such other activities on a regular basis. Mymensingh Press Club was established towards the end of 1959. It was set up in course of a provincial conference of journalists and editors of the-then East Pakistan, held on 7–8 March 1959. Literary circles of note were Sahitya Sava and Troyodaosh Sammilini. Earlier, in the 1960s, a leader of the Ahmadya community, Ahmad Toufiq Chowdhury, had set up printing press in his residence at Maharaja Road to bring out a periodic magazine entitled Writupatra. Poets Musharraf Karim and Farid Ahmed Dulal and writer Iffat Ara are some of the important literary names from Mymensingh. In 1985, Ara set up a press in her own residence to bring out the monthly Dwitiyo Chinta.

State-owned Bangladesh Television has a relay television station located in Mymensingh's Akua neighborhood. It is slated to become a regional television station soon.

Notable people

Bengali scientist Sir Jagadish Chandra Bose was born in Mymensingh in his maternal uncle’s home , Bengal presidency (now Mymensingh, Bangladesh) on 30 November 1858. The name of Munshiganj is associated with people like anti-British leader Mahadev Sannyal, writer Upendra Kishore Roychowdhury, Sukumar Ray and Leela Majumdar, musician and a disciple of Rabindranath Tagore, Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin, novelist Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay who received early education in Mymensingh town, Humayun Ahmed a Bengali writer, Mahmudul Hasan – Islamic Scholar, P.C. Sorcar – magician, Abul Fateh diplomat, statesman, Sufi, Liberation hero and the first Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh, acting president of Bangladesh during the war of liberation Syed Nazrul Islam in addition to three other presidents of the country, including, Justice Abu Sayeed Chowdhury and Shahabuddin Ahmed. Politician and author Abul Mansur Ahmed, the-then Governor of East Pakistan Abdul Monem Khan, educationist principal Ibrahim Khan, poets Nirmalendu Goon, Helal Hafiz, and Abid Azad, geologist Subhrangsu Kanta Acharyya, writer Jatin Sarker.

Golam Samdani Quraishy, writer, founder GS-BCUTA, Shahid Akhand, Helena Khan, Iffat Ara, are associated with Mymensingh.

The Oscar-winning Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray and Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji's family hail from Mymensingh. Taslima Nasreen, the feminist writer hails from the district as well. The city is also the birthplace and hometown of Mahmudullah Riyad, the first Bangladeshi to score a hundred in ICC World Cup.

Gallery

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  Monument of the martyrs of the Language Movement in Mymensingh
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  Bangladesh Agricultural University
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  Mymensingh Power Station
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  Centre for Nuclear Medicine and Ultrasound in MMCH
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  Town Hall Point
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  Mymensingh-1971 monument
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  Old Brahmaputra, Mymensingh
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  Payra Chattar, A sculpture in Natun Bazar Moor, Sadar Mymensingh
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  Abstract of liberation war at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU)

Further reading

• Khan Mohammad Abdullah, Moymonsigh-er Etihash, 1966, Mymensingh.
• Darji Abdul Wahab, Moymonsigh-er Choritavidhan, 1986, Mymensingh.
• F. A. Sachse, Mymensingh Gazetteer, Bengal Secretariat Book Depot, 1917, Calcutta.
• Asoke Mitra, Towards Independence – 1940–1947, 1997, New Delhi.
• Kedarnath Mojumder, Moymonsingh-er Biboron, 1987, Mymensingh.
• Kedarnath Mojumder, Moymonsingh-er Etihash, 1987, Mymensingh.

External links

• Mymensingh Govt. Portal
• "Nasirabad" . Encyclopædia Britannica (11th ed.). 1911.
• Muktagacha, a historical place of Mymensingh District
• Mymensingh District in Banglapedia