Bibir Pukur is a traditional reservoir located in the heart of Barisal city. In 1908 AD
Jinnat Bibi dug this pond to alleviate the water woes of the people. On the eastern side of Sadar Road of the city
The length of Bibi Pond is 1850 feet and width is 400 feet. Later the centenary pond came to be known as Bibi Pond after Jinnat Bibi. At that time, Bibi Pond had two connections with the Kirtankhola River through canals. As a result, tides were regularly seen in this pond just like the river.
Some Christian missionaries arrived in Barisal in early 1600 AD. In his continuation, William Carey, the father of Bengali printing literature, stayed in Barisal in the 1800s. William Carey rescued Jinnat Bibi from Portuguese pirates and took it upon himself to raise her. Jinnat Bibi’s residence was the house of Hashem Ali Khan, the minister of undivided Bengal.
After the establishment of Barisal Municipality, Bibi Pond was renovated and re-excavated at various times. Currently the pond is beautified with a hanging park, seating benches, fountains and lighting. As well as Bibi Pond. An open air recreation center called Public Square was built nearby, now known as Hiran Square.
How to go
It takes about 7-8 hours to go from Dhaka to Barisal by road. Various transport buses ply from Gabtali Bus Terminal in the capital at regular intervals from 6 am to 10 pm every day. Shakura, Eagle and Hanif Paribahan AC/Non-AC bus ticket price is Tk 600 to Tk 1300 (variable) per person. Buses going from Dhaka to Barisal usually stop at Natullabad bus stand in Barisal city.
But launch is the best mode for Dhaka-Barisal travel. Barisal-bound launches depart from Sadarghat launch terminal between 8-9pm. The launches reached Barisal Ghat early the next morning. Good service launches include MV Manami, Kuakata 2, Kirtankhola 10, Adventure 1, Adventure 9, Sumparban 9, Sundarban 10, Surbhi 7, Surbhi 8, Parabat 9, Parabat 11 and some more launches. Deck rent per person, 200-250 taka, single cabin 1200-1400 taka, double cabin rent 2200-2500 taka. And the VIP cabin fare is Rs 5000-8000.
After reaching Barisal’s launch ghat or bus stand, you can take a rickshaw to see Bibi Pond located on the east side of Sadar Road in the city