The historic Iraqi Field, adjacent to Azimpur New Paltan Lane in Dhaka, which had once been a spacious playground, is now overrun by makeshift markets, depriving children and residents of a vital breathing space in the densely packed city.

A worn-out signboard stands on 4.16 acres of land on the west side of the National Parliament, reading “Playground open only to disabled persons”. There's no entrance to the ground, which looks practically abandoned -- full of thickets and not remotely resembling a playground of any sort.