Literature Review Mason in Bangladesh Dhaka –Free Word Template Download with AI

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This literature review explores the significance of masonry, a foundational construction technique, within the context of Bangladesh Dhaka. As one of South Asia’s most densely populated cities, Dhaka faces unique challenges in urban development, including rapid urbanization, resource scarcity, and environmental pressures. The study examines existing research on masonry practices in Bangladesh Dhaka to identify gaps and opportunities for sustainable development. The term "mason" here refers not only to the skilled laborer but also to the broader practice of constructing with materials like brick, stone, or concrete blocks.

Dhaka’s architectural heritage is deeply rooted in masonry traditions. Historically, local builders relied on sun-dried clay bricks and later fired bricks for construction. These materials were abundant and cost-effective, aligning with the socio-economic conditions of the time (Ahmed & Islam, 2015). However, modern urbanization has introduced new demands for durability and scalability in masonry practices. Studies highlight that traditional methods often lack resilience against natural disasters such as flooding or cyclones, which are increasingly frequent in Bangladesh (Rahman et al., 2018).

Research indicates that traditional masonry in Dhaka emphasizes locally sourced materials like clay bricks, lime mortar, and bamboo. These methods are culturally significant but face criticism for their limited structural strength compared to modern alternatives (Siddique & Hossain, 2017). For instance, clay bricks require significant energy for firing and may degrade under prolonged exposure to moisture—a critical issue in Dhaka’s humid climate. Additionally, the labor-intensive nature of traditional masonry often leads to inconsistencies in quality and safety standards.

To address these challenges, recent studies have explored modern masonry techniques tailored for Bangladesh’s context. Fly ash bricks and hollow concrete blocks have gained traction due to their reduced weight, thermal efficiency, and lower environmental impact (Islam & Kabir, 2020). Moreover, the use of reinforced masonry—incorporating steel bars or grids into brick walls—has been proposed as a solution to enhance earthquake resistance in Dhaka’s high-risk zones. However, adoption remains limited due to cost barriers and the lack of trained masons familiar with these advanced methods.

A critical aspect of masonry in Bangladesh Dhaka is its environmental footprint. Traditional brick kilns contribute significantly to air pollution, a pressing concern in a city already grappling with poor air quality (Nuruzzaman et al., 2019). Literature suggests that transitioning to eco-friendly materials, such as compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEBs), could mitigate this issue. CSEBs require minimal energy for production and utilize locally available soil, making them a viable option. However, their adoption hinges on policy support and the willingness of masons to adapt to new techniques.

The role of the "mason" as a skilled laborer is central to this review. Studies emphasize that Dhaka’s construction sector relies heavily on unskilled or semi-skilled workers, often lacking formal training in modern masonry practices (Zaman et al., 2016). This gap has led to substandard construction, increasing the risk of structural failures. Efforts to institutionalize mason training programs, such as those under the Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies, have shown promise but remain underfunded and inaccessible to many workers.

Governments and NGOs in Bangladesh have initiated policies to standardize masonry practices. For example, the National Building Code of Bangladesh outlines guidelines for load-bearing walls, moisture resistance, and material quality (Ministry of Housing & Works, 2013). However, enforcement is inconsistent due to corruption and lack of resources. Literature underscores the need for stricter regulations and incentives to promote sustainable masonry practices in Dhaka’s rapidly expanding urban landscape.

This literature review highlights several areas requiring further investigation. First, there is a need for localized studies comparing the long-term durability of modern versus traditional masonry techniques in Dhaka’s climate. Second, research into cost-effective training programs for masons to adopt eco-friendly methods would address workforce limitations. Finally, interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, policymakers, and community leaders could foster innovation in sustainable construction.

Masonry remains a cornerstone of Bangladesh Dhaka’s built environment, but its evolution is critical to addressing urbanization challenges and climate resilience. This literature review underscores the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern innovations while prioritizing the role of skilled masons. By aligning masonry practices with sustainability goals and socio-economic realities, Dhaka can build a safer, more resilient future for its residents.

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