Transformation of Rural Homesteads in the Urban Fringe Areas of Bangladesh: A Case of Kakon Hut, Rajshahi

Abstract

The early agrarian community was established in the northern part of Bangladesh because of its unique Barind tract formation. Rural homesteads were the core building block of these settlements. Though 70% of Bangladeshi still live in rural areas, the rural homesteads are being transformed rapidly. Many socio-economic indicators such as population density, limited expansion opportunity, access to modern technology and diverse types of materials and many more are working as a core driving force behind these changes. This article investigates the transformation pattern of the rural homesteads in Kakon Hut Paurashava of Godagari Upazilla in Rajshahi District, in terms of both spatial pattern and construction materials, to develop an in-depth understanding of the impact of adaptation of modern techniques, technologies, and materials in the urban fringe areas. This research is based on an empirical research strategy and consequently progressed through qualitative data collection, observation, questionary survey, and key person interviews. The study produces a thorough analysis of three core types of homesteads in the site area. Finally, a comparative analysis of traditional homesteads with the existing types that have gone through the transformation process is produced to identify the spatial and material transformation in these settlements.