Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and the principal city of Dhaka District. Located on the banks of the Buriganga River, Dhaka, along with its metropolitan area, has a population of 11 million, making it the largest city in Bangladesh and the 11th most populous in the world. With its colourful history, Dhaka is known as the 'City of Mosques.' It is also known for its fine muslin cloth.
Under Mughal rule in the 17th century, the city was both a provincial capital and a center of the world-wide muslin trade. The modern city, however, was developed chiefly under British rule in the 19th century. Modern Dhaka is the center of political, cultural and economic life in Bangladesh. Although its urban infrastructure is the most developed in the country, it nonetheless faces challenges such as pollution, congestion, supply shortages, poverty and crime. In recent decades, Dhaka has seen modernisation of transport, communications and public works. The city is attracting considerable foreign investment and is also experiencing an influx of people from across the nation.