Noakhali district
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| Noakhali district | |
|---|---|
| Name | Noakhali District |
| Native name | নোয়াখালী জেলা |
| Settlement type | District |
| Coordinates | 22, 50, N, 91... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | Bangladesh |
| Subdivision type1 | Division |
| Subdivision name1 | Chittagong Division |
| Established title | Established |
| Established date | 1821 |
| Seat type | Headquarters |
| Seat | Maijdee |
| Area total km2 | 4200.00 |
| Population total | 3,625,252 |
| Population as of | 2022 Census |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Timezone | BST |
| Utc offset | +6 |
| Website | www.noakhali.gov.bd |
Noakhali district is a prominent administrative region located in the southeastern part of Bangladesh, within the Chittagong Division. It is bordered by the Feni district and Tripura to the north, the Bay of Bengal and the Bhola district to the south, Chandpur district and the Meghna River to the west, and the Chattogram district and Cox's Bazar district to the east. Historically significant for its role in the Bengal Presidency and the Partition of Bengal (1947), the district is a vital economic and cultural hub, known for its coastal geography, vibrant linguistic heritage, and agricultural output.
Geography
The district's topography is predominantly characterized by a low-lying, fertile alluvial plain intersected by numerous rivers and tidal creeks, including the major Meghna River and the Feni River. A significant portion of its southern boundary comprises coastal areas and islands along the Bay of Bengal, such as Hatiya Island and Sandwip Island, which are administratively part of the district. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate with high humidity, heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, and is frequently susceptible to natural disasters like cyclones and tidal surges, notably during events like the 1970 Bhola cyclone. Its landscape features extensive mangrove forests in the estuarine zones, contributing to the local ecosystem.
History
The area now known as Noakhali has a rich historical lineage, being part of ancient kingdoms like Samatata and later incorporated into the Sultanate of Bengal and the Mughal Empire. During the British Raj, it was a district of the Bengal Presidency, and the region gained infamy during the Noakhali riots of 1946, a pivotal event in the lead-up to the Partition of India. Following the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, the district witnessed significant engagement, including naval operations by the Bangladesh Navy and the Mukti Bahini against the Pakistan Army. The district's administrative center was historically located in the town of Noakhali before being shifted to its present headquarters at Maijdee.
Demographics
According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, the district has a population exceeding 3.6 million, with the overwhelming majority being Bengali Muslims, alongside small communities of Bengali Hindus and other groups. The primary language spoken is the Noakhali dialect of Bengali, which has distinct phonetic and lexical characteristics. Population density is high, particularly in urban centers like Maijdee, Sonaimuri, and Chatkhil, while the offshore islands have more scattered settlements. Major educational institutions include Noakhali Science and Technology University and Abdul Malek Ukil Medical College.
Administration
The district is subdivided into nine upazilas: Sadar, Begumganj, Chatkhil, Companiganj, Hatiya, Senbagh, Kabirhat, Sonaimuri, and Subarnachar. The district's local governance is overseen by the Noakhali District Council, with law enforcement managed by the Bangladesh Police under the jurisdiction of the Noakhali District Police. The area is represented in the Jatiya Sangsad by several parliamentary constituencies, and it falls under the appellate jurisdiction of the Chittagong District and Sessions Judge's Court.
Economy
The economy is primarily agrarian, with rice being the staple crop, alongside significant production of betel leaf, sugarcane, and potato. The coastal and riverine geography supports major fishing and shrimp farming industries, with key landing centers at Hatiya Island and Sandwip Island. The district is also known for traditional handloom weaving, particularly of muslin and sarees, and has a growing presence of small and medium-sized enterprises. Important markets and commercial hubs are located in Maijdee, Sonaimuri, and Begumganj, while the Meghna River serves as a crucial artery for inland water transport connecting to Dhaka and Chittagong.
Culture
The district boasts a distinct cultural identity within Bengali culture, celebrated through its folk traditions, including Bhatiali music, Jari Gan, and local forms of theatre. Annual events and fairs like the Rash Mela at Basudevpur and various Eid and Durga Puja celebrations are significant. Notable literary figures from the region include Jasimuddin, a renowned poet of Bengali literature, and Abdul Gaffar Choudhury, composer of the iconic song "Amar Bhaier Rokte Rangano". Culinary specialties feature an abundance of seafood, with dishes like Hilsha preparations and various rice-based delicacies being central to the local cuisine.
Category:Districts of Bangladesh Category:Chittagong Division