Khulna

Khulna খুলনা
Metropolitan City
Skyline of Khulna Skyline of Khulna
Coordinates:
Country	Bangladesh
Division	Khulna Division
Established	1884
Government
• Type	Mayor–Council
• Mayor	Talukder Abdul Khaleque
Area
• Total	59.57 km2 (23.00 sq mi)
Population  (2021)
• Total	663,342
• Density	11,000/km2 (29,000/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+6 (BST)
Postal code	9000
Website	www.khulnacity.org

Khulna (

) is the third-largest city in Bangladesh and the administrative seat of Khulna Division. Located in the southwest part of the country, it is a major industrial and commercial hub, known for its jute, textile, and shipbuilding industries. The city is situated on the banks of the Rupsha and Bhairab rivers, providing it with a strategic advantage for trade and commerce.

History

Khulna has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. It was part of the ancient kingdom of Bengal and later came under the rule of the Mughal Empire. During the British colonial period, Khulna became an important center for the jute trade, which led to its rapid development. The city was officially established as a municipality in 1884.

Geography

Khulna is located at 22°49′0″N 89°33′0″E

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. It covers an area of 59.57 square kilometers. The city is characterized by its flat topography and is crisscrossed by numerous rivers and canals, which are integral to its transportation and economy.

Economy

Khulna's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from the jute, textile, and shipbuilding industries. The city is home to the Khulna Shipyard, one of the largest in Bangladesh. The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, is located nearby and contributes to the local economy through tourism and forestry.

Education

Khulna is a center for higher education in Bangladesh. It hosts several universities, including Khulna University, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET), and Khulna Medical College. These institutions offer a wide range of programs and contribute to the city's reputation as an educational hub.

Transportation

Khulna is well-connected by road, rail, and river. The city has a railway station that links it to major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong. The Rupsha Bridge is a key infrastructure that facilitates road transport across the Rupsha River.

Culture

Khulna has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, fairs, and cultural events held throughout the year. The city is known for its traditional Bengali cuisine, music, and dance.

Also see

• Khulna Division
• Sundarbans
• Khulna University
• Khulna Shipyard