Case study of Ahsan Manzil and Gol Talab: Assessment of public opinion to access the possibilities of heritage trail in Old Dhaka, Bangladesh

This research aims to analyse various hypotheses on urban heritage conservation in Dhaka, Bangladesh, focusing on public awareness and outdated government policies that hinder heritage protection. Methodologically, extensive literature reviews were given priority to understand the state of the art and were evaluated under thematic analysis for heritage study, ideal authenticity according to world heritage standards. Then, an extensive field survey followed to grasp the public behaviour, and the study will analyse the survey thoroughly to outline a well-desired ‘heritage trail’ for Old Dhaka, which is currently missing in reality. The possible research findings will primarily focus on the preservation and safeguarding of the surrounding of other dilapidated heritage sites, which are considered elements of valuable cultural and historical significance coming from Dhaka city’s kernel, especially when the city is suffering from rapid urbanization that threatens heritage sites with various social forces and ends up with demolition. Through socially equitable and explorable data collection derived from the viewpoints of the public participations, the potential findings will also attempt to restate public consciousness at the same time. Having said that, this paper will examine the pivotal role of the magnificent edifice, Ahsan Manzil, and a natural element, Gol Talab pond from the colonial era, as a case study. The first successful conservation project in Bangladesh, Ahsan Manzil, is taken as a case study as the paper aims to develop a future heritage trail in Dhaka, focusing on accessible, pedestrian-only entry, restricted vehicles, and local culture. Such a trail should be designed to acknowledge traditional custodians of Dhaka’s intangible cultural heritage, attract foreign tourists, and provide revenue-generating options through city tourism. The trail will highlight important heritage sites with unique histories, linking them in an affordable route, and adhering to inclusivity through the presence of the historic pink palace of Ahsan Manzil.