Sheikh Russell Park Gets a New Name ‘Narayanganj City Park’

 The name of “Sheikh Russell Nagar Park” has been officially changed to “Narayanganj City Park,” effective from Tuesday evening. Narayanganj City Corporation’s secretary (deputy secretary) Nur Kutubul Alam confirmed the decision. 

The name change follows demands from various political and social groups after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government on August 5, 2024. Murals of Sheikh Russell at both ends of the park were defaced with black paint, and attempts were made to dismantle them. 

A press release indicated that the Local Government Division ordered renaming locations linked to the previous administration on February 13, 2025. Subsequently, during the city corporation’s general meeting on February 17, the park’s renaming was officially decided. 

Built at a cost of around BDT 57.67 crore, Narayanganj City Corporation developed the park over 18 acres in the Deobhog area. The park was opened to the public on November 14, 2023. 

The park boasts modern amenities like walkways around its lake, streetlights, seating pavilions, viewing decks, open-air stages, and scenic bridges. Sports facilities include a dedicated field and separate public restrooms for men and women.  

The park also features a boat club, swimming pool, water garden, gymnasium, dry fountain, skating zone, and cycling lanes. To promote art and culture, an environmentally-friendly fine arts building has been constructed, replacing an older structure. 

Previously, this location was a dumping ground that bred mosquitoes and flies, causing distress for local residents. Illegal structures around the area were also hubs for drug activities. In 2011, then-Mayor Dr. Selina Hayat Ivy initiated the restoration and beautification of the area, and the park’s completion transformed it into a beloved recreational spot.

In 2010, RAJUK identified this area as part of the Detailed Area Plan (DAP). In 2011, the then-Mayor Dr. Selina Hayat Ivy took initiatives to excavate, renovate, and enhance the beauty of the place. Following these efforts, the park was officially inaugurated on November 14, 2023. 

Even before the construction work was completed, the park had already become a place of comfort and relaxation for the people of Narayanganj city. Today, it is recognized as a popular entertainment hub for the city’s residents.