Bell’s Park

Bangabandhu Udyan or Bell’s Park was built on the banks of the river Kirtankhola in 1987. The 550 feet long and 450 feet Wide Park is a historic urban recreation park located just 4 km away from the district headquarters of Barisal District. The park is named after Bitson Bells in recognition of his contribution to the development of Barisal, mainly Muslim education and public health of Barisal city people in 1898 when he was appointed as a District Magistrate. In 1996, the government of Bangladesh changed the name of Bells Park to Bangabandhu Udyan.

Bangabandhu Udyan/Bell’s Park is one of the most exceptionally stunning places in Barisal with a playground, walkway, helipad, greeneries, and an adjacent lake. The park has been the primary playground of the city for decades and is still the center of all sports and athletic activities. 

At various times, many state dignitaries such as Prime Minister Sheik Hasina, Fromer Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, Former President Ziaur Rahman, Fomer President Hussain Muhammad Ershad have given their valuable speeches in Bell’s Park. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman gave his most epic speech in 1972 at the now called Bangabandhu Udyan. An open stage and murals were erected in the park to commemorate the extraordinary speech of Sheik Mujibur Rahman. Various programs and social events are now hosted there which portray history or casual shows.

The park also hosts various social and cultural events such as tree fairs, trade fairs, and parades.  There are benches and chests for sitting inside the garden with varieties of flowers in and around the park. Beautiful landscapes of Kirtankhola River from Bell’s Park and colorful flowers on green grass after dusk gives the best atmosphere and environment to suit any sort of event to be held. The park is also well illuminated during nighttime. The park also holds a flash of light which is captivating and gives the park its unique being.

Bells Park is more popular for morning walks and jogging among the locals of the Barisal district. It is also a perfect place to go for a casual gathering with friends or kinfolk. The place is a perfect mishmash of history and nature. Various games and sports are witnessed at the park. The park has safe, clean, and provides a playful, fun, and peaceful environment encouraging children and young in this era to indulge and spend time in various sports and play to keep in good health and also welcomes people of any age to spend quality time. At present this park is managed by Barisal City Corporation under the Department of Public Works. The park is highly maintained and frequently reconditioned.