{{Short description|District of Bangladesh in Chittagong Division}} {{Use dmy dates|date=March 2024}} {{Infobox settlement | name = Feni District | native_name = ফেনী জেলা | native_name_lang = bn | official_name = | type = [[Districts of Bangladesh|District of Bangladesh]] | image_skyline = {{Photomontage|position=center | photo1a =Asgar Ali Chowdhury Mosque.JPG | photo1b =Ramnagor Chowdhury Bari Jame Masjid.jpg | photo2a =Beautiful Sharshadi Shahi Mosque.jpg | photo2b =Chandgaji Bhuiyan Mosque 12.jpg | photo3a =Beautiful Mohammad Ali chowdhury mosque 2.jpg | photo3b =Wind electricity-Muhuri Project.jpg | photo4a = সোনাগাজী মুহুরী সেচ প্রকল্প, ফেনী.JPG | photo4b = Feni ShathMoth MG 3800.jpg | photo5a = | size = 280 | spacing = 2 | color = black | border = 0 | foot_montage = From top: Asgar Ali Chowdhury Mosque, Ramnagar Chowdhury Bari Jame Masjid, Sharshadi Shahi Mosque, Chandgaji Bhuiyan Mosque, Mohammad Ali chowdhury mosque, Wind electricity-Muhuri Project and Feni ShathMoth }} | imagesize = | image_alt = | image_caption = | image_flag = | nickname = | nicknames = | mottoes = | image_map = BD Feni District locator map.svg | map_caption = Location of Feni District within Bangladesh | mapframe = yes | mapframe-zoom = 9 | mapframe-point = none | pushpin_map = | pushpin_label_position = right | pushpin_map_caption = Location of Feni in Bangladesh | coordinates = {{coord|23|00|N|91|24|E|type:adm2nd_region:BD_dim:100000|display = inline,title}} | coordinates_footnotes = | subdivision_type = Country | subdivision_name = {{flag|Bangladesh}} | subdivision_type1 = [[Divisions of Bangladesh|Division]] | subdivision_name1 = [[Chittagong Division]] | established_title = Established as a [[mahakuma|sub-division]] | established_date = 1876 | established_title1 = Upgraded to a district | established_date1 = 1 March 1984 (as the 64th district and split from [[Noakhali District]])<ref name=":22" /> | seat_type = Headquarters | seat = [[Feni, Bangladesh]] | leader_title = [[Deputy Commissioner (Bangladesh)|Deputy Commissioner]] | leader_name = Saiful Islam | area_footnotes = <ref name="bbs2024" /> | area_total_km2 = 928.34 | population_footnotes = <ref name="census2022-nationalreport" /><ref name="bbs2024" /> | population_total = 1648896 | population_as_of = [[2022 Bangladeshi census|2022]] | population_density_km2 = 1665 | population_note = | timezone1 = [[Bangladesh Standard Time|BST]] | utc_offset1 = +06:00 | postal_code_type = [[List of postal codes in Bangladesh|Postal codes]]<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=bn:ফেনী পোস্ট কোড: ডাক অধিদপ্তর |trans-title=Feni Postcodes: Directorate Of Posts |language=bn |url=https://bdpost.portal.gov.bd/site/page/9dab35ba-dee7-4870-acb4-99a01a6263ad |access-date=3 April 2024 |website=[[Bangladesh National Portal]]}}</ref> | postal_code = 3900–3903 ([[Feni Sadar Upazila|Feni Sadar]]), 3910–3913 ([[Chhagalnaiya Upazila|Chhagalnaiya]]), 3920–3923 ([[Daganbhuiyan Upazila|Daganbhuiyan]]), 3930–3933 ([[Sonagazi Upazila|Sonagazi]]), 3940–3941 ([[Parshuram Upazila|Parshuram]]), 3942–3943 ([[Fulgazi Upazila|Fulgazi]]) | website = {{URL|www.feni.gov.bd/}} | footnotes = | iso_code = BD-16 | blank_name_sec1 = [[Human Development Index|HDI]] (2023)<ref name="GlobalDataLab">{{Cite web |url=https://hdi.globaldatalab.org/areadata/shdi/ |title=Subnational HDI |website=Global Data Lab |language=en |access-date=28 March 2024}}</ref> | blank_info_sec1 = 0.661<br />{{color|#fc0|medium}} · [[List of regions of Bangladesh by Human Development Index|18th of 22]] | blank_name_sec2 = Notable sport teams | blank_info_sec2 = [[NoFeL SC]] | total_type = Feni District | demographics_type1 = Demographics | demographics1_title2 = [[Sex ratio]] | demographics1_info2 = 898.7 males per 1000 females | population_rural = 1159666 | population_urban = 489230 | named_for = [[Feni River]] | parts_type = [[Upazilas of Bangladesh|Upazilas]] | parts = {{collapsible list | title = List of upazilas | 1 = [[Feni Sadar Upazila]] | 2 = [[Chhagalnaiya Upazila]] | 3 = [[Parshuram Upazila]] | 4 = [[Fulgazi Upazila]] | 5 = [[Daganbhuiyan Upazila]] | 6 = [[Sonagazi Upazila]] }} | area_code = 0331 | government_type = [[District councils of Bangladesh|Commissioner–council government]] | population_blank1_title = [[Feni, Bangladesh|Feni Municipality]] | population_blank1 = 234357 }}
'''Feni District''' ({{Langx|bn|ফেনী জেলা}}) is a coastal [[Districts of Bangladesh|district]] situated in the south-east of Bangladesh, within [[Chittagong Division]]. One of Bangladesh's smallest districts, it is strategically located along the [[N1 (Bangladesh)|Dhaka–Chittagong transportation corridor]]. Bordered by India to the north and the [[Bay of Bengal]] to the south, it serves as the sole entry point linking [[Chittagong]], the country's primary port city, to the northern districts.
The district's population stood at 1.6 million in 2022, ranking 42nd among 64 districts and 4th least populous in Chittagong Division. Established as Bangladesh's 64th district in 1984 with its administrative hub in [[Feni, Bangladesh|Feni city]], it was previously a [[Mahakuma|sub-division]] under [[Noakhali District]]. The district comprises six [[upazila]]s (sub-districts): [[Sonagazi Upazila|Sonagazi]], [[Fulgazi Upazila|Fulgazi]], [[Parshuram Upazila|Parshuram]], [[Daganbhuiyan Upazila|Daganbhuiyan]], [[Chhagalnaiya Upazila|Chhagalnaiya]] and [[Feni Sadar Upazila|Feni Sadar]].
Deriving its name from the [[Feni River]], the district has a rich history spanning five millennia, having been historically part of the greater regions of Noakhali, [[Comilla District|Comilla]], and [[Tripura]]. It was ruled by ancient kingdoms before coming under the Muslim rule of the [[Delhi Sultanate]] in the 14th century, and later the [[Mughal Empire|Mughals]] from the 17th century, when it briefly served as a [[frontier]] settlement with thriving cities. The [[British Raj|British]] gained control in the late 18th century, formally establishing Feni as a [[Subdivisions of British India|sub-division]] in 1876. Significant infrastructure development, including schools, colleges, roads and railways, occurred in the early 20th century. Feni's students played a vital role during Bangladesh's [[Bengali language movement|language movement]] in the mid-20th century and subsequent [[Bangladesh Liberation War|independence war]], ultimately gaining independence from Pakistan on 6 December 1971.
== Etymology == While there are disagreements surrounding the matter, it is generally believed that the settlement of Feni derived its name from the river of the same name, rather than the other way around. The origin of the name "Feni" itself is surrounded by various local legends, complicating efforts to determine its true source. However, most legends commonly suggest that the name is connected to the word {{Transliteration|bn|phoni}} ({{Langx|bn|ফনী|links=no}}, meaning "snake").{{R|ahmed1990|page=11}}
The evolution of the word "Feni" or {{Transliteration|bn|pheni}} is evident in historical texts spanning several centuries. Writers and poets in the 15th and 16th centuries wrote about the area, referring to the word {{Transliteration|bn|phoni}} as both a river stream and a [[ghat]] for ferry crossing.{{Efn|Poets like Jatadhar Bhattacharya and [[Kavindra Parameshwar]] made references to the Phoni River in their descriptions of settlements.}} The emergence of the word {{Transliteration|bn|pheni}} appears to be evident in the language of Muslim poets and writers,{{Efn|In the 18th century, poets such as Ali Raza Kanu Fakir and [[Muhammad Muqim]] mentioned Feni in their writings.}} such as the 17th-century [[Persian language|Persian]] book [[Baharistan-i-Ghaibi]], where the reference to the two {{Transliteration|bn|pheni}} rivers{{Efn|Likely referring to the Feni River on the east and the Little Feni River on the west}} indicates the transformation of the word {{Transliteration|bn|phoni}} into {{Transliteration|bn|pheni}} or Feni.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |script-title=bn:ইতিহাস: ফেনী জেলা |trans-title=History: Feni District |url=https://feni.gov.bd/bn/site/page/Ywew-%E0%A6%87%E0%A6%A4%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%B9%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%B8 |url-status= |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date= |website=[[Bangladesh National Portal]] |language=bn}}</ref>{{R|ahmed1990|pages=11–12}}
== History == {{See also|History of Noakhali}}
=== Early history === The Feni region, situated in eastern Greater Noakhali (historically known as Bhulua),{{R|ahmed1990|pages=13,28|quote=বৃহত্তর নোয়াখালীর মধ্যে পূর্বদিকের ফেনী অঞ্চলকে ভূখন্ড হিসাবে অধিকতর প্রাচীন বলে পণ্ডিতগণ মত প্রকাশ করেছেন... উল্লেখ্য, বৃহত্তর নোয়াখালীর আদি নাম ছিল 'ভুলুয়া'।|language=bn|translation=Scholars have expressed the opinion that the eastern Feni region within Greater Noakhali is a comparatively ancient landmass... It is noteworthy that the original name of Greater Noakhali was 'Bhulua'.}} is believed by scholars to have an ancient history, despite its relatively recent addition to the country's administrative landscape. Historical records indicate the presence of human settlements dating back five thousand years ago within this region.{{R|ahmed1990|page=9}}{{R|name=khan2014|page=27}}
According to folklore, this area was once home to a flourishing society that settled near the legendary seas of {{Transliteration|bn|Billasagar}} or {{Transliteration|bn|Sukh Sagar}}, showcasing the region's deep-rooted past.{{R|page=23|name=ahmed1990}} Scholars trace the arrival of [[Aryan]]s to the [[Ganges Delta]] near Feni, marking a significant epoch in its history.{{R|page=23|name=ahmed1990}}{{Efn|Mentioned in the Mahabharata, King Phoni, a vassal during the [[Kuru Kingdom|Kuru]]-[[Pandava]] wars, is believed to have ruled over ancient southeastern Bengal under the kingdom of [[Pundravardhana]] or another prominent king of North Bengal. It is thought that his capital was located in the present-day Feni region.{{R|ahmed1990|page=24}}}} Prehistorical discoveries in Feni dating back to the kingdom of [[Gangaridai]] further underscore Feni's importance, suggesting it may have served as a vital frontier settlement during ancient times.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=27}} Historical records point to the governance of a 7th-century dynasty as part of the [[Samatata]] region.{{R|name=ahmed1990|pages=33-34}} Archaeological findings suggest the presence of the [[Chandra dynasty]], which ruled over Samatata.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=42|pages=}} Additionally, evidence indicates the possible rule of the [[Pala Empire]] in Feni, notably under [[Mahipala II|King Mahipala II]], after whom modern Mahipal is named. The Feni-Noakhali region was part of the ancient Pattikera Kingdom, possibly serving as a trade route connecting the kingdom with Burma (present-day Myanmar).{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=44|pages=}} The artificial lake called {{Langx|bn|বিজয়সিন|translit=bijoysen|label=none}} in Mahipal reflects the era of [[Vijaya Sena]]'s rule, belonging to the [[Sena dynasty]].{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=46|pages=}} During the 13th century, the kingdom of [[Bhulua Kingdom|Bhulua]] emerged, encompassing the area that comprises the present-day Noakhali region.{{R|name=ahmed1990|pages=49-50}}
=== Arrival of Islam and Muslim rule === During the medieval era, the arrival of [[Sufism|Sufis]] from Arabia and Central Asia profoundly influenced [[Bengal]]'s coastal regions. Promoting values of tolerance and love, they amalgamated Islamic teachings with local customs, shaping a distinctive cultural identity.{{R|name=khan2014|pages=27-28}} By the onset of the Middle Ages, Muslims formed the majority in the Noakhali region, despite the absence of Muslim rule.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=52}}
During the rule of [[Muhammad bin Tughluq]], eastern Bengal came under the [[Delhi Sultanate]]'s jurisdiction. Under the governance of [[Bahram Khan]], who ruled over eastern Bengal during the [[Tughlaq dynasty]], the Bhulua or Greater Noakhali region was administratively linked to [[Sonargaon]], one of the three administrative divisions of Bengal within the Delhi Sultanate. Ships laden with salt would depart from the ports of Bhulua and Jugidiya for overseas destinations.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=54-55}}
Following Bahram's demise in 1338, [[Fakhruddin Mubarak Shah]] proclaimed the independence of eastern Bengal at Sonargaon.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=55|pages=}} After the establishment of the independent [[Sonargaon#Sonargaon Sultanate (14th century)|Sultanate of Sonargaon]], Fakhruddin set up a military camp in Feni while aiming to conquer Chittagong, overseeing the construction of a mosque and excavation of a reservoir in the region. In an effort to enhance connectivity within his realm, he contributed to the construction of a lengthy highway from [[Chandpur District|Chandpur]] to Chittagong, passing through Comilla and Feni. In later times, a significant portion of this old highway in the Feni region was incorporated into the Dhaka{{Ndash}}Chittagong Trunk Road.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=56|pages=}}
During a period of instability in Bengal, the rise of Tripura as a regional power saw its king extending control over parts of Feni, [[Comilla District|Comilla]], and [[Sylhet Division|Sylhet]], capitalising on the opportunity presented by [[Raja Ganesha]]'s seizure of power in Bengal.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=60}}
In historical accounts, it is suggested that Rasti Khan, who served under [[Ruknuddin Barbak Shah]], governed areas extending from Feni to the northern regions of Chittagong. Additionally, during the [[Medieval India|medieval period]], the [[Twipra Kingdom|Kingdom of Tripura]] exerted significant influence over the Feni and Comilla regions, with the eastern part of Feni being part of the district of Tripura during the British colonial period, which also encompassed the modern district of Comilla.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=61-63}}
During the medieval era, a nobleman belonging to the [[Sur Dynasty]] named Nizam Shah established a kingdom called Jafarabad along the banks of the [[Feni River]].{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=71|pages=}} During the reign of [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] [[Emperor Akbar]], territorial disputes arose between the Kingdoms of Tripura and [[Arakan]], with Arakan initially seizing control of Chittagong and extending influence up to the Feni River. Following conflicts, [[Marma people|Mogh]] settlements were established in southern Feni-Noakhali, but they fled when the Mughals conquered Chittagong in 1666, who also drove out Portuguese settlers in the region who arrived in late 16th century.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=77-78}}
=== Mughal era and rule of the Nawabs === Greater Noakhali fell under Mughal rule after they invaded the Bhulua Kingdom—which stretched as far as a portion of Comilla—and ousted its king Ananta Manikya in 1611, led by [[Subahdar]] [[Islam Khan I|Islam Khan]].{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=84-85, 50}} To ensure control over the newly acquired territories, the Mughals set up a police station ([[thana]]), serving as the administrative hub of the area, at the mouth of the Feni River in Jugidiya. Its jurisdiction extended over significant portions of present-day Sonagazi and [[Companiganj Upazila, Noakhali|Companiganj]]. This station served as the frontier outpost of the Mughal province of Bengal in the far southeast during that period, facing repeated attacks from the [[Kingdom of Mrauk U|Arakan Kingdom]].{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=86|pages=}}
The Feni region was pivotal during the Mughal conquest of Chittagong, acting as the border with Arakan-held territory. Having been under Mughal control for fifty years, Feni was strategically fortified along the riverside to repel potential Arakanese attacks.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=90|pages=}} After the Mughal conquest of Chittagong, they established a thriving city called Amirgaon in southern Feni, but it was eventually swallowed by the Feni River.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=91|pages=}}
After the death of [[Aurangzeb]]'s, the Mughal Empire began to fragment, leading to the rise of [[Nawabs of Bengal|Nawabs]] in Bengal in the early 18th century. Nawab [[Murshid Quli Khan]], seeking to boost tax revenue, divided Feni's largest [[pargana]] (administrative unit). Under his rule, the [[East India Company]] established a textile mill in southern Feni's Jugidiya area. Toward the Nawab era's end, a new administrative unit, Chakla Roshnabad, was formed, spanning parts of Sylhet and Comilla, extending to the Feni River's southern bank. [[Shamsher Gazi]], who ruled Chakla Roshnabad, emerged as a notable figure, significantly influencing Feni's history.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=94-97}}
=== Influence of the East India Company === Long before the [[Battle of Plassey]], which handed control of Bengal to the East India Company, a French company{{Efn|Likely referring to the [[French Indies Company|French East India Company]]}} established a significant textile mill in Jugidiya, a hub for various industries, near the mouth of the Feni River. In 1765, the East India Company gained the authority to collect taxes in Jugidiya and other areas by becoming the official tax collector ([[Dewan|diwan]]) for the Mughal emperor, thereby legitimizing its control over the region.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=121}}
In 1770, the East India Company's ineptitude and exploitative tax policies precipitated a [[Great Bengal famine of 1770|severe famine]]. Concurrently, the coastal Feni-Noakhali region was devastated by a catastrophic cyclone and tidal surge, resulting in widespread displacement and destruction. The important settlement of Jugidiya was all but submerged.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=123|pages=}} Despite the implementation of the [[Permanent Settlement]] system in 1793, much of Feni-Noakhali remained under direct East India Company control, with armed enforcement of high land revenue collection.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=125|pages=}} In the same year, the [[Manikya dynasty|Manikya]] king of Tripura acquired land rights in the Roshnabad estate under the new system, including parts of Feni, compelling anti-English landowners to cede their land.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=126}}
=== Establishment of Mahakuma === During the British colonial period, administrative units known as thanas were established under district collectorates, forming administrative unions within the district. In a subsequent phase of administrative decentralization, the British authorities divided each district into subdivisions called [[mahakuma]]s. Before the establishment of Feni mahakuma{{Efn|Formally referred to as Feni Sub-division in census reports, including and before 1981}} the Chhagalnaiya and Parshuram thanas (currently upazilas), and Amirgaon thana{{Efn|Amirgaon Thana encompassed parts of southern and south-eastern regions of Feni District}} were part of the Comilla and Noakhali districts respectively.{{Efn|Initially, the Feni mahakuma encompassed Mirsarai thana of Chittagong district, but Mirsarai was later reunited after two years. Consequently, the Feni River delineated the boundary between Chittagong district and the Feni mahakuma.}}{{R|ahmed1990|page=144}} In 1876, the Feni mahakuma (sub-division) was established under the jurisdiction of Noakhali District.{{R|name=khan2014|pages=29-30}} The sub-divisional headquarters were originally located in Amirgaon, but were moved to Feni town in 1881.<ref name="bbs2024">{{Cite book |url=http://nsds.bbs.gov.bd/storage/files/1/Publications/PHCensus/Chattaogram/District%20Report%20Feni.pdf |title=District Report: Feni |date=June 2024 |publisher=[[Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics]] |isbn=978-984-475-246-7 |series=[[2022 Bangladeshi census|Population and Housing Census 2022]] |location=Dhaka |language=en, bn}}</ref>{{Rp|page=xxvii}} Notably, in 1883, [[Nabinchandra Sen]] assumed the role of governor of the mahakuma, overseeing significant developments that earned him the moniker of the true architect of Feni.{{Efn|The headquarters and administrative offices of the mahakuma were relocated near the ancient reservoir known as Rajajhir Dighi, situated close to the Dhaka Trunk Road, an area initially less populated. Under Nabinchandra's leadership, efforts were made to establish a market, seen as pivotal for the emergence of the municipality of Feni, which subsequently evolved around this market. Today, the reservoir remains a significant attraction for the residents of the municipality.{{r|ahmed1990|pages=145-146}}|name=ahmed1990}} Furthermore, in 1895 and 1920, two pivotal railway lines, namely the [[Assam Bengal Railway|Assam Bengal railway]] and the Feni{{Ndash}}[[Belonia, India|Belonia]] branch line, were constructed, vastly improving Feni's connectivity and contributing to its development.{{R|name=khan2014|pages=29-30}} Syed Amir Uddin, also known as Pagla Miah, was a Sufi saint who exerted significant influence in the Feni region during this period, earning recognition as its spiritual architect.{{R|name=khan2014|pages=53-54}}
=== History leading up to the partition === The districts of Feni and Noakhali played a pioneering role in the [[Swadeshi movement|Swadeshi]] (self-reliance) movement, particularly in the boycott of foreign goods during the 1930s. [[Khadi]] cloth, produced by local weavers, gained immense popularity in these regions. The demand for a separate homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent, presented at the All-India Muslim League Conference held in [[Lahore]] in March 1940, resonated strongly in the Feni-Noakhali region, just as it did in other parts of Bengal. [[Habibullah Bahar Chowdhury]] of Feni emerged as a leading figure during this time.{{R|name=khan2014|page=31}}
Amidst the escalating tensions of the [[Pakistan Movement]] and the [[Indian independence movement|Indian independence struggle]], Feni gained prominence as a significant military hub in South Asia throughout [[World War II]]. Its strategic position led to the creation of an [[Allied]] forward base and the construction of a [[Fenny Airfield|large airstrip]], which now forms part of the premises of [[Feni Girls' Cadet College]].<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=Eagle |first=Andrew |date=8 November 2013 |title=Finding Feni |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/news/finding-feni |access-date=21 March 2024 |website=The Daily Star |language=en}}</ref> Local residents became increasingly agitated as Allied soldiers engaged in acts of violence against women, sparking protests that were met with lethal gunfire. In 1943, Feni endured a Japanese bombing raid during World War II, causing plane crashes and pilot casualties.{{R|name=khan2014|page=32}}
As the war concluded and India's independence approached in 1946, [[Noakhali riots|communal tensions]] heightened in nearby regions. Feni's Hindu-majority areas saw limited violence thanks to local intervention. Ultimately, in 1947, the Indian subcontinent gained independence, leading to the partition into Pakistan and India.{{R|name=khan2014|page=|pages=32-33}}
=== Post-partition of Bengal === {{See also|Partition of Bengal (1947)}}
Following partition in 1947, Feni, bordered by the Indian state of Tripura, experienced demographic shifts and social hurdles. The king of Tripura's significant land holdings in Feni shaped its socio-economic dynamics. Many Hindu families migrated to Tripura and [[West Bengal]], including professionals, leading to a social void. With Hindu educators departing, the education sector faced crisis, while returning Muslims from India added to unemployment. Post-[[World War II]], Bengali workers returning from Burma worsened economic challenges in Feni.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=173}}
After partition, Tripura's population grew, prompting new settlements by flattening hills and clearing forests. This led to changes in river courses, causing floods in Feni, endangering agriculture and causing annual crop and resource losses worth [[crore]]s.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=173}}
The hastily demarcated Feni-Tripura border by the Radcliffe Boundary Commission led to challenges for local residents. Many farmers found their houses in East Pakistani Feni while their cultivated land remained in Indian Tripura, causing households to straddle two countries. This created the issue of {{Transliteration|bn|jiratiya}}, where individuals became citizens of both nations due to the border cutting through their homes.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=174}}
=== Pakistani rule and the language movement === {{See also|Bengali language movement}}The [[Muslim League (Pakistan)|Muslim League]] party{{Mdash}}the dominant political party of the region{{Mdash}}exhibited limited internal democracy and suppressed dissent in Feni, resulting in political, social, and cultural stagnation. However, [[Feni College]] emerged as a significant institution during this period. In 1948, it established a student council with a unique democratic structure, featuring direct student elections, unlike the prevalent indirect election systems (through elected representatives) or faculty-appointed bodies elsewhere. These elections sparked discussions among local intellectuals and politicians, encouraging broader public engagement. The elected student council leader became a prominent figure, representing students in social and cultural spheres. Over time, Feni College, through its student council, wielded growing influence on the region's social and political landscape, particularly the [[Bengali language movement|language movement of Bangladesh]]. Following [[Muhammad Ali Jinnah]]'s declaration of Urdu as the sole national language in 1948, Feni witnessed numerous anti-government movements, notably during the language movement peak in 1952. Despite orders, students organized public rallies and political movements, continuing well into [[Ayub Khan]]'s military rule.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=175-176}} [[Abdus Salam (activist)|Abdus Salam]], a journalist, played a significant role in the language movement of Dhaka and ultimately sacrificed his life for the cause.{{R|name=khan2014|pages=49-51}}
After the [[1954 East Bengal Legislative Assembly election|1954 legislative elections]], Feni underwent a flurry of socio-economic advancements, including the straightening of Silonia and Muhuri rivers (which also saw construction of a dam), digging of Kalidas-Pahalia canal, and development of key infrastructure like bridges and roads. Efforts were made to establish industries such as textile mills, and the town of Feni was incorporated, with initiatives to provide supply of electricity.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=179-180}}
Following his release from imprisonment on [[Agartala Conspiracy Case|sedition charges]], [[Sheikh Mujibur Rahman]], the founding father of Bangladesh, was permitted to host a rally in Feni during [[Yahya Khan]]'s rule, marking it as the first area he visited after Dhaka. After his [[7 March Speech of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman|influential speech on 7 March 1971]], urging people to take up arms for independence, the people of Feni displayed great enthusiasm by forming a [[Rastrabhasa Sangram Parishad|Rastrabhasha Sangram Parishad]] resistance committee ({{Lit|struggle council}}), contributing to the preparation for the impending conflict.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=182-183}}
=== Bangladesh War of Independence === {{Main|Bangladesh Liberation War}}{{See also|Battles of Belonia Bulge}} [[File:Monument to freedom fighter of feni.jpg|thumb|Monument to fighters in Feni city]] During the independence war, Feni was a [[main supply route]] for the Pakistani occupation forces, serving as a vital line of communication for transporting troops, arms, and ammunition from the port city of Chittagong to the capital city Dhaka and other parts of the country.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |last=Mustafa |first=Ghulam |date=16 December 2017 |title=Battles of Belonia Bulge |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/supplements/victory-day-special-2017/battles-belonia-bulge-1505437 |access-date=13 June 2024 |website=The Daily Star |language=en}}</ref> In the early stages, [[Khawaja Ahmed|Khwaja Ahmed]], head of the resistance committee, organised a diverse force of [[Mukti Bahini]] ({{Lit|liberation force}}) comprising local police, [[East Pakistan Rifles]] (now Border Guard Bangladesh) and [[Bangladesh Ansar|Ansar]] members, ex-military personnel, students, and local youth. Notable individuals such as [[Joynal Hazari]], Noor Ahmed Hazari, [[Joynal Abedin]], Jafar Ullah Khan, Mostafa Hossain, and Flight Lt. Abdur Rouf were instrumental in this effort. They established control of Feni town and fortified Shuvapur Bridge to defend against approaching forces from the south. Subsequently, additional support arrived from Chittagong, reinforcing their defensive positions. Intense confrontations ensued around Shuvapur and Gopal Union as Pakistani forces attempted to cross the Feni River, resulting in significant casualties on their side. The control of the Feni River was crucial due to the strategic importance of Shuvapur road bridge and Dhumghat rail bridge as vital transportation links for the district.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=184}}
Throughout the first phase of the war, Feni remained unoccupied by enemy forces until 22 April. However, desperate to establish communication between Dhaka and Chittagong, the invading forces launched a land attack from the north in Cumilla, eventually gaining control over Feni. After the fall of Feni town, pro-independence fighters retreated eastward to Chhagalnaiya, where they inflicted significant casualties on the invaders and seized arms, despite later facing air attacks. With enemy forces concentrated in Feni town, other parts of Feni, including Sonagazi, were relatively free from occupation, allowing fighters to regain control of strategic routes and achieve victories.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=185}}
In July and August, local collaborators known as [[Razakars (Pakistan)|Razakars]] emerged, committing atrocities such as killings and arson. Feni's proximity to Tripura in India enabled fighters to receive military training and employ [[Guerrilla warfare|guerrilla]] tactics against the invading forces and their collaborators in the second phase of the war.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=185}} During the war, notable figures such as [[Sultan Mahmud (officer)|Sultan Mahmud]], a former officer of the [[Pakistan Air Force]], [[Salauddin Mumtaz|Salahuddin Mumtaz]], [[Amin Ahmed Chowdhury]], and [[Jafar Imam (captain)|Jafar Imam]] emerged, contributing significantly to various aspects of the war and Feni's development.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=186-188}}
Following [[Indo-Pakistani war of 1971|Pakistan's invasion of western India]] on 3 December, India officially recognised Bangladesh, energising the Mukti Bahini, which launched extensive attacks by land, air, and sea on Pakistani positions. Overwhelmed by these assaults, the invading forces retreated towards Cumilla during the night of 6 December, taking with them the non-Bengali governor of the Feni mahakuma. At dawn the next day, the flag of an independent Bangladesh was raised, eliciting cheers from thousands of people across the Feni region. Eventually, on 16 December, the Pakistani forces formally surrendered in Dhaka, marking Bangladesh's attainment of sovereignty and independence.{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=|pages=188-189}}
=== Establishment of the district and post-independence === In the late 1950s, discussions began about making Feni mahakuma a separate district. Despite various attempts over the years, including proposals during Sheikh Mujib's tenure and administrative reforms under [[Hussain Muhammad Ershad|Ershad]]'s government, no progress was made. However, after persistent local protests, Feni was finally established as the 61st district of Bangladesh<ref name=":22">{{Cite Banglapedia |article=Feni District |article-url=Feni District |last=Sultan |first=Tipu |year=2023}}</ref> on 1 March 1984, encompassing {{Convert|395|sqmi}} of land.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2014-10-05 |script-title=bn:জেলা, মহকুমা ও উপজেলার ইতিবৃত্ত |trans-title=History of districts, mahakumas and upazilas |url=https://www.kalerkantho.com/print-edition/sub-editorial/2014/10/05/136733 |access-date=28 February 2024 |work=[[Kaler Kantho]] |language=bn}}</ref>{{R|page=190|ahmed1990}}
=== July 2024 protests in Feni === In July 2024, the [[2024 Bangladesh quota reform movement|anti-quota student movement]] that originated in Dhaka spread to multiple districts across Bangladesh, including Feni. The movement, widely known as the [[July Revolution (Bangladesh)|July Revolution]], was triggered by longstanding grievances over public service recruitment policies favouring certain quotas, particularly those reserved for descendants of freedom fighters.<ref name="LeMonde2024">{{cite web |date=20 July 2024 |title=Violent crackdown on student protests plunges Bangladesh into chaos |url=https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2024/07/20/violent-crackdown-on-student-protests-plunges-bangladesh-into-chaos_6691524_4.html |access-date=23 July 2025 |website=Le Monde}}</ref>
On 17 July 2024, clashes broke out in Feni Sadar between student protesters and members of the [[Bangladesh Chhatra League]] (BCL), the student wing of the ruling [[Awami League]]. The violence occurred near Doel Chattar and the Shaheed Minar, where BCL activists reportedly blocked and attacked protesters attempting to join demonstrations. At least 20 individuals were injured in the confrontation, including several bystanders.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 July 2024 |title=20 injured in BCL, protestors clash in Feni |url=https://www.observerbd.com/news/481693 |access-date=23 July 2024 |website=The Daily Observer}}</ref>
Following the resignation and departure of Prime Minister [[Sheikh Hasina]] on 5 August 2024, widespread unrest erupted in Feni. Mobs attacked three police stations—Feni Model, Daganbhuiyan, and Chhagalnaiya—setting fire to records, vandalising facilities, and looting weapons. The homes of prominent Awami League members, as well as several businesses and cattle farms, were also ransacked.<ref name="DhakaTribune2024">{{cite news |last=Islam |first=Md Rafiqul |date=7 August 2024 |title=3 Feni police stations attacked following Sheikh Hasina's resignation |url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/nation/353941/3-feni-police-stations-attacked-following-sheikh |access-date=23 July 2025 |work=Dhaka Tribune}}</ref> In total, the Feni District Administration officially recognised 10 individuals as martyrs of the July–August uprising. A government-funded memorial, named the July Square, was inaugurated in March 2025 to honour them.<ref name="BSSMemorial2025">{{cite news |date=27 March 2025 |title='July Square' inaugurated in Feni |url=https://www.bssnews.net/news/258535 |access-date=23 July 2025 |work=[[Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha]]}}</ref>
=== 2025 floods === Between 8 and 17 July, heavy monsoon rains—combined with water surges from upstream India—caused devastating floods across Feni District, affecting five upazilas: Feni Sadar, Chhagalnaiya, Daganbhuiyan, Fulgazi, and Parshuram. According to the [[Department of Agricultural Extension]], approximately {{Convert|5,564.61|ha|km2}} of cropland were damaged, resulting in losses of around {{BDTConvert|146.43|c|0|nolink=yes}}.<ref name=":9">{{cite news |last= |date=17 July 2025 |title=Feni floods leave behind trail of destruction worth Tk 146.43 crore |url=https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/environment/feni-floods-leave-behind-trail-destruction-worth-tk14643-crore-1190121 |work=The Business Standard |agency=[[United News of Bangladesh]]}}</ref>
The National Disaster Response Coordination Centre reported that 6,950 families (approximately 29,700 people) remained waterlogged and more than 1,000 homes were partly or completely destroyed. Embankments were breached at 36 points, triggering widespread submergence across the district.<ref name=":10">{{cite news |date=14 July 2025 |title=Floodwaters trap nearly 7,000 families across Feni |url=https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/30636d404006 |work=bdnews24.com}}</ref>
The district's fisheries and livestock sectors sustained significant damage. The [[Department of Fisheries (Bangladesh)|Department of Fisheries]] estimated losses of {{BDTConvert|8.12|c|nolink=yes}}, while the Livestock Office reported damages totaling {{BDTConvert|64.88|l|nolink=yes}}, including losses of poultry, cattle, and fodder.<ref name=":9" />
Relief efforts include distribution of {{BDTConvert|23.5|l|nolink=yes}} in cash, 160 tonnes of rice, and deployment of the [[Bangladesh Army]] with boats and life jackets for evacuations and shelter management.<ref name=":10" /><ref>{{cite news |last= |date=12 July 2025 |title=Adviser: Tk 7,340 crore flood control embankment to be built in Feni |url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/nation/386213/adviser-7-340c-flood-control-embankment-to-be-built-in-feni |work=Dhaka Tribune |agency=[[United News of Bangladesh]]}}</ref>
Local officials and residents have urged construction of sustainable embankments (totalling 122 km) and ongoing river [[dredging]] to reduce future flood risks.<ref>{{cite news |last=Chowdhury |first=Sujoy |date=13 July 2025 |title=Feni submerged due to lack of sustainable embankments |url=https://en.prothomalo.com/bangladesh/70lsnxs1h9 |work=Prothom Alo}}</ref>
== Geography == Feni is one of the smallest districts of Bangladesh,{{R|name=ahmed1990|page=9}} covering a total area of {{Convert|928.34|km2}}.<ref name="bbs2024" /> Situated along the strategic Dhaka{{Ndash}}Chittagong transportation corridor at Bangladesh's south-eastern border, it serves as the sole entry point linking the country's primary port city of [[Chittagong]] to the northern districts, making it a crucial transit point for goods and people moving between the major economic hubs.<ref>{{Cite map |title=RHD Road Network Bangladesh |url=https://archive.org/details/rhd-road-network-bangladesh |access-date=5 May 2024 |publisher=HDM Circle, RHD |publication-place=[[Dhaka]] |year=2005}}</ref><ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Ahmed |first1=Raquib |title=Transforming Bangladesh: geography, people, economy and environment |last2=Al-Maruf |first2=Abdullah |last3=Jenkins |first3=J. Craig |publisher=[[Springer Science+Business Media|Springer]] |year=2023 |isbn=978-3-031-45092-1 |edition=1st |series=World regional geography book series |location=Cham |doi=10.1007/978-3-031-45093-8 |eissn=2363-9091 |issn=2363-9083}}</ref><ref name=":7" /> The district is surrounded by [[Nangalkot Upazila|Nangalkot]] and [[Chauddagram Upazila|Chauddagram]] upazilas of [[Comilla District]], as well as [[Tripura]] state of India to the north. To the west and south-west lie [[Senbagh Upazila|Senbagh]] and [[Companiganj Upazila, Noakhali|Companiganj]] upazilas of [[Noakhali District]], while Tripura borders it to the east and north-east. [[Mirsharai Upazila]] of Chittagong District lies to the south-east, and the [[estuary]] of the [[Feni River]] at the [[Bay of Bengal]] marks the southern border.<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=bn:ভৌগলিক পরিচিতি: ফেনী জেলা |trans-title=Geography: Feni District |url=https://www.feni.gov.bd/bn/site/page/eZSq-%E0%A6%AD%E0%A7%8C%E0%A6%97%E0%A6%B2%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%95-%E0%A6%AA%E0%A6%B0%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%9A%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%A4%E0%A6%BF |access-date=28 March 2024 |website=[[Bangladesh National Portal]] |language=bn}}</ref> The finger-like strip of land that juts out into Tripura in the north is called the Belonia Bulge, bordered by India on three sides.<ref name=":8" />
=== Physical geography === Feni is characterised by its flat terrain, previously featuring hills, mounds, forests, and jungles primarily in the eastern part of [[Chhagalnaiya Upazila|Chhagalnaiya]] and [[Parshuram Upazila|Parshuram]] upazilas. In the past, the region around Kalidah featured a large wetland, but with the construction of the Kalidas-Pahalia canal in the 1950s, this wetland has been transformed into cultivable land.{{R|ahmed1990|page=9}}
==== Rivers ==== [[File:Feni_River_Closure_Dam.jpg|thumb|[[Water hyacinths]] on the [[Feni River]] at [[Muhuri Project]] in [[Sonagazi Upazila|Sonagazi]]]] Feni is traversed by several main rivers including the [[Feni River]], Little Feni River, [[Muhuri River]], Silonia River, and Kahua River, originating from hilly regions further north in India and flowing southwards into the Bay of Bengal.<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=bn:নদ-নদী: ফেনী জেলা |trans-title=Rivers: Feni District |url=https://feni.gov.bd/en/site/page/5d9x-%E0%A6%A8%E0%A6%A6%E0%A6%A8%E0%A6%A6%E0%A7%80 |access-date=18 March 2024 |website=[[Bangladesh National Portal]] |language=bn}}</ref>{{R|ahmed1990|page=9}}{{R|name=khan2014|page=35}}
The Silonia River, situated in Parshuram Upazila, originates from the hilly regions of the Indian state of Tripura. It eventually merges into the Muhuri River located in Chhagalnaiya Upazila. Along its course, the river traverses through Feni Sadar, Fulgazi, Parshuram, and Chhagalnaiya Upazilas. One branch of the Muhuri River goes further east and then reunites. Locally, this branch is known as the Kahua.{{R|name=khan2014|page=36}}
The [[Dakatia River]]'s branch which enters through Sindurpur of Daganbhuiyan Upazila is referred to as the Little Feni River. This river continues southward and subsequently splits into two, flowing along the western side of Kazirhat and eventually converging into the Bay of Bengal. At the mouth of the Little Feni River, a [[Sluice|regulator]] has been constructed as part of the Kazirhat Sluice Gate irrigation project.{{R|name=khan2014|page=37}}
==== Soil ==== The soil composition in Feni District is primarily defined by the presence of [[Old Brahmaputra River|Old Brahmaputra]] floodplain series, primarily olive [[Silt loam|silty loam]] and gray soil.<ref name=":5">{{Cite book |url=https://bbs.portal.gov.bd/sites/default/files/files/bbs.portal.gov.bd/page/c645bd51_3cb5_4f53_86f9_7d29244caa4e/2023-03-20-04-10-1f0c5368e424690b35824baaf764f857.pdf |title=District Report: Feni |date=December 2022 |publisher=[[Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics]] |isbn=9789844751330 |series=Agriculture Census 2019 |location=[[Dhaka]]}}</ref> Extensive alluvial lands, known locally as {{Langx|bn|চর|translit=chôr|label=none}}, have formed due to the erosion caused by the Feni and Muhuri rivers, resulting in the displacement of numerous settlements.{{R|name=khan2014|pages=34-35}} In the northern area of Feni, where small hillocks are situated, the soil is mainly brown and highly acidic.<ref name=":5" />
==== Geological features ==== Approximately {{Convert|8|km}} south of Feni town lies a subsurface [[anticline]], stretching about {{Convert|12|km}} in length and {{Convert|5|km}} in width. In 1981, [[Petrobangla]] drilled a gas well within this structure, which was subsequently abandoned in 1998.<ref>{{Cite Banglapedia |article-url=Geological Structure |first=MA |last=Baqui |article=Geological Structure}}</ref>
==== Climate ==== Feni District has a [[Tropical monsoon climate|monsoon climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification]] ''Am'')<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Kottek |first1=Markus |last2=Grieser |first2=Jürgen |last3=Beck |first3=Christoph |last4=Rudolf |first4=Bruno |last5=Rubel |first5=Franz |date=10 July 2006 |title=World Map of the Köppen-Geiger climate classification updated |url=http://www.schweizerbart.de/papers/metz/detail/15/55034/World_Map_of_the_Koppen_Geiger_climate_classificat?af=crossref |journal=Meteorologische Zeitschrift |language=en |volume=15 |issue=3 |pages=259–263 |doi=10.1127/0941-2948/2006/0130 |bibcode=2006MetZe..15..259K |issn=0941-2948}}</ref> characterised by warmth and relative equity throughout the year. Summer typically sets in from the middle of April and extends until the middle of June. During this period, the district experiences a maximum [[mean]] temperature of {{Convert|34.5|C}} and a minimum mean temperature of {{Convert|12.4|C}}. The level of humidity varies, with a minimum of around 20% in January and reaching close to 100% in July.<ref name=":5" /> Additionally, the average annual rainfall in the district is recorded at {{Convert|3302|mm}}.<ref name="census2011-zilareport">{{Cite book |url=http://203.112.218.65:8008/WebTestApplication/userfiles/Image/PopCenZilz2011/Zila_Feni.pdf |title=Zila Report: Feni |date=July 2015 |publisher=[[Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics]] |isbn=9789843386182 |series=Population and Housing Census 2011 |location=[[Dhaka]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210824125351/http://203.112.218.65:8008/WebTestApplication/userfiles/Image/PopCenZilz2011/Zila_Feni.pdf |archive-date=24 August 2021}}</ref>
Feni District is highly flood-prone due to its flat, low-lying topography and location along [[transboundary river]]s. The Feni, Muhuri, and Silonia rivers, combined with intense monsoon rains, create conditions for both seasonal and flash flooding. Major flood events occurred in 1998, 2004, 2010, 2017, 2024, and 2025. [[Feni, Bangladesh|Feni Municipality]] faces the highest risk, followed by [[Sonagazi Upazila#Municipality|Sonagazi Municipality]] and Nawabpur [[Union councils of Bangladesh|union]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Sarker |first1=Sajib |last2=Jahan |first2=Israt |last3=Wang |first3=Xin |last4=Azad |first4=Abul |date=2025-05-06 |title=Geospatial Approach to Assess Flash Flood Vulnerability in a Coastal District of Bangladesh: Integrating the Multifaceted Dimension of Vulnerabilities |journal=ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information |language=en |volume=14 |issue=5 |pages=194 |doi=10.3390/ijgi14050194 |bibcode=2025IJGI...14..194S |doi-access=free |issn=2220-9964}}</ref><ref name=":9" />
The [[Muhuri Project|Muhuri Irrigation Project]], established in the 1980s, includes [[Embankment dam|embankments]] and regulators intended to control river flow and mitigate flooding.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Bari |first=Muhammad F. |date=1993-06-01 |title=Hydraulic model investigation of downstream erosion of large regulators: a case study |url=https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00880872 |journal=Irrigation and Drainage Systems |language=en |volume=7 |issue=2 |pages=131–150 |doi=10.1007/BF00880872 |issn=1573-0654 |url-access=subscription}}</ref>{{R|name=khan2014|pages=37-38}} However, poor maintenance, siltation, and structural degradation have reduced the effectiveness of these measures.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chowdhury |first=Sujoy |date=2025-07-13 |title=Feni submerged due to lack of sustainable embankments |url=https://en.prothomalo.com/bangladesh/70lsnxs1h9 |access-date=2025-07-23 |website=Prothom Alo English |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kamal |first=Musum |date=24 September 2024 |title=A month underwater: Choked canals deepen eastern Bangladesh's flood crisis |url=https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/4a0dd8a51f19 |access-date=2025-07-23 |website=[[bdnews24.com]] |language=en}}</ref> The absence of coordinated water management with upstream India further contributes to the district's vulnerability to flooding.{{cn|date=September 2025}}
Feni also suffered significant flooding during [[Cyclone Komen]] in 2015 and [[Cyclone Roanu]] in 2016. These events brought heavy rainfall and tidal surges causing widespread inundation in the southeastern region, including Feni, causing extensive crop and infrastructure damage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Siddique |first=Abu |date=30 July 2015 |title=Cyclone Komen static off shore |url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/bangladesh-others/106266/cyclone-komen-static-off-shore |access-date=2025-07-23 |website=Dhaka Tribune |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2015-08-03 |title=Thousands reel under floodwater |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/backpage/thousands-reel-under-floodwater-120874 |access-date=2025-07-23 |website=The Daily Star |language=en}}</ref>
==== Flora ==== [[File:Feni village sun rise.jpg|thumb|Rice cultivation in Feni]] In the farmlands of Feni District, a diverse range of crops are cultivated, including local and high-yield variety (HYV) rice, jute, vegetables, spices, pulses, oilseeds, etc. are produced. Although the total forest area in the district, covering {{Convert|2179.22|ha|km2}}<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |script-title=bn:এক নজরে ফেনী: ফেনী জেলা |trans-title=Feni at a Glance: Feni District |url=https://feni.gov.bd/bn/site/page/euCA-%E0%A6%8F%E0%A6%95-%E0%A6%A8%E0%A6%9C%E0%A6%B0%E0%A7%87-%E0%A6%AB%E0%A7%87%E0%A6%A8%E0%A7%80 |access-date=18 March 2024 |website=[[Bangladesh National Portal]] |language=bn}}</ref> is not organised, the plain land is often covered under homestead forests{{Efn|In rural Bangladesh, homestead forestry, often referred to as "home gardens," is an integrated farming system where various crops, including trees, are cultivated alongside livestock, poultry, and/or fish production. These gardens primarily serve to fulfill the basic needs of the farmers.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Khan |first1=Niaz Ahmed |last2=Siddiqui |first2=Mosabber Ahmed |date=20 July 2008 |title=Homestead forestry |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/news-detail-46448 |access-date=4 April 2024 |website=The Daily Star |language=en}}</ref>}} containing diverse fruit and non-fruit trees.<ref name=":5" />
Common trees in the area include {{Species|P|runus|amygdalus|badaam}}, {{Species|D|iospyros|blancoi|gaab/velvet apple}}, {{Species|E|ugenia|jambolana|jaam}}, {{Species|B|orassus|flabellifer|palm}}, {{Species|T|amarindus|indica|tamarind or tetul}}, {{Species|A|rtocarpus|heterophyllus|jackfruit}}, {{Species|A|egle|marmelos|wood apple or bael}}, {{Species|D|illenia|indica|chalta}}, {{Species|Z|iziphus|mauritiana|boroi}}, and {{Species|P|sidium|guajava|guava}}. Additionally, bananas, {{Species|L|itchi|chinensis|lychee}}, {{Species|A|verrhoa|carambola|kaamranga}}, {{Species|A|nnona|squamosa|custard apple}}, {{Species|T|erminalia|chebula|haritaki}}, and {{Species|P|hyllanthus|emblica|amloki}} grow abundantly in the area.
The district is home to indigenous timber trees like {{Species|A|lbizia|procera|karoi}} and ''[[Dipterocarpus]] ({{Translit|bn|garjan}})'', alongside introduced species such as {{Species|S|wietenia|macrophylla|mahogany}}. Common trees like {{Species|E|rythrina|indica|mandar}} are used for fuel and fencing, while {{Species|B|ombax|ceiba|shimul}} and {{Species|N|eolamarckia|cadamba|kadam}} find use in matchstick and mattress production, respectively. New introductions include {{Species|E|ucalyptus|globulus|eucalyptus}} and ''[[Pine|Pinus]] (pine)''. {{Species|M|angifera|indica|mango wood}} is abundant but low quality, while {{Species|T|amarindus|indica|tamarind}} and {{Species|Z|iziphus|mauritiana|kul}} wood is of good quality. {{Species|C|assia|fistula|amaltas}} is used for furniture, and {{Species|L|agerstroemia|speciosa|jarul}} for boat building and house pillars.
{{Species|A|reca|catechu|betel nut}} plantations are increasing in the north and west of the district, while {{Species|C|ocos|nucifera|coconut}} trees are abundant district-wide. {{Species|B|orassus|flabelliformis|taal}} and {{Species|P|hoenix|dactylifera|date palms or khejur}} are also common, with the latter being particularly valuable for its juice, which is used to make [[jaggery]], and its leaves, which are used for large fans. Betel nut and coconut are significant sources of household income.
Shady trees in the area include {{Species|F|icus|indica|banyan}}, {{Species|F|icus|religiosa|peepal}}, and {{Species|A|zadirachta|indica|neem}}. Although plantations of cane, bamboo, and thatching grass are gradually decreasing, they are still widely used for various purposes such as fencing, basket making, and thatching. Cane is utilised for making baskets, binding, and thatching. Marshes contain {{Species|A|eschynomene|aspera|sola}} and {{Species|S|chumannianthus|dichotomus|sitalpati}}, extensively used for making mats and baskets.<ref name=":5" />
==== Fauna ==== Feni district boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, spiders, millipedes, and numerous insects. Common mammals in Feni include domestic species like {{Species|B|os|taurus|domestic cow}}, {{Species|C|apra|hircus|goat}}, {{Species|E|quus|caballus|horse}}, {{Species|S|uncus|murinus|chika}}, {{Species|F|unambulus|pennantii|dura kathbirali}}, {{Species|H|erpestes|auropunctatus|benji}}, several species of rats, and {{Species|C|anis|aureus|fox}}. Feni is home to a wide variety of bird species commonly found throughout Bangladesh.
The district boasts numerous species of freshwater fish, including {{Species|L|abeo|rohita|ruhi}}, {{Species|C|irrhinus|mrigala|mrigel}}, ''[[Catla]]'', ''[[Sperata|Macrones]] ({{Translit|bn|tengra}})'', {{Species|C|larias|magur|catfish}}, {{Species|H|eteropneustes|fossilis|singi}}, {{Species|A|nabas|testudineus|koi}}, and marine fish, like {{Species|C|hanna|striatus|shoal}}, {{Species|W|allago|attu|boal}}, {{Species|C|hanna|marulius|gazar}}, ''[[Ompok]] (''{{Translit|bn|pabda}}'')'', prawns, dry fish, and crabs. Small fishes include {{Species|P|untius|titteya|punti}}, {{Species|M|astacembelus|armatus|baain}}, {{Species|C|hela|cachius|chela}}. Exotic fishes that are commonly used in commercial fish farming include {{Species|C|tenopharyngodon|idellus|grass carp}}, {{Species|H|ypophthalmichthys|molitrix|silver carp}}, {{Species|T|ilapia|mossambica|tilapia}}, and {{Species|O|reochromis|niloticus|nilotica}}.
Several types of reptiles and amphibians are found in the district, including snakes, lizards, {{Species|T|rionyx|hurum|tortoises}}, different species of [[iguana]], {{Species|N|aja|naja|cobra}}, {{Species|B|ufo|melanostictus|toad}}, {{Species|R|hacophorus|maculatus|tree frogs}}.<ref name=":5" />
==Administration== [[File:Feni District upazila geocode map - Small Area Atlas Bangladesh.svg|thumb|Feni District upazila geocode map]]
=== Administrative divisions ===
The administrative structure of Feni District is organized into several tiers, with the [[District councils of Bangladesh|Zila Parishad]] (district council) at the top level. The district is further divided into several [[upazila]]s, each serving as a rural administrative unit governed by the [[Upazila Parishad]] (sub-district council). Within each upazila, unions form the lowest rural administrative units, comprising [[Mouza|mauzas]] and [[Villages of Bangladesh|villages]], and are overseen by the [[Union councils of Bangladesh|Union Parishad]] (union council). At the urban level, cities are designated as [[paurashava]]s or municipalities. These administrative bodies, both rural and urban, are responsible for a wide range of functions and duties concerning civic affairs, community welfare, and local development initiatives within the district.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About LGIs |url=https://proinfo.lged.gov.bd/lged/about-lgis/ |access-date=4 April 2024 |website=Procurement Information Management System for LGI & LGED}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Panday |first=Pranab |date=7 July 2017 |title=Decentralisation without decentralisation: Bangladesh's failed attempt to transfer power from the central government to local governments |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23276665.2017.1363940 |journal=Asia Pacific Journal of Public Administration |language=en |volume=39 |issue=3 |pages=177–188 |doi=10.1080/23276665.2017.1363940 |issn=2327-6665 |url-access=subscription}}</ref><ref name="census2011-zilareport" />
Feni District comprises six upazilas (sub-districts), five municipalities, 43 union councils, 543 mauzas, and 577 villages.<ref name="bbs2024" /> Among the six upazilas, [[Feni Sadar Upazila]] has the highest population, while [[Parshuram Upazila]] has the lowest.<ref name="census2022-nationalreport" /> In terms of total area, [[Sonagazi Upazila]] is the largest, while [[Parshuram Upazila]] covers the smallest area.<ref name="census2011-zilareport" /> {| class="wikitable sortable" |- ! Name of upazila !! Area (in sq. k.m.) !!Municipality!!No. of union councils!!Population (2022)<ref name="census2022-nationalreport" /> |- | [[Feni Sadar Upazila]] || 226.19 ||[[Feni, Bangladesh|Feni]] || 12 || 634,321 |- | [[Daganbhuiyan Upazila]] || 141.70 ||[[Daganbhuiyan]]|| 8 || 276,915 |- | [[Chhagalnaiya Upazila]] || 139.59 ||[[Chhagalnaiya]] || 5 || 208,232 |- | [[Sonagazi Upazila]] || 284.89 || Sonagazi|| 9 || 290,667 |- | [[Parshuram Upazila]] || 95.76 ||[[Parshuram, Bangladesh|Parshuram]]|| 3 || 113,317 |- | [[Fulgazi Upazila]] || 102.19 ||- || 6 || 125,444 |}
==== District administration ==== {{See also|Local government in Bangladesh#District administration}} [[File:Feni Zila Parishad Building.jpg|thumb|District council headquarters]] At the district level, Feni District is governed by an appointed executive authority known as the [[Deputy Commissioner (Bangladesh)|Deputy Commissioner]], who serves as the chief administrative and revenue officer.<ref name=":4">{{Cite Banglapedia |article=Local Government |article-url=Local Government |last=Siddiqui |first=Kamal}}</ref> The Deputy Commissioner's responsibilities encompass overseeing all activities within the district. The governance of the district is overseen by the [[District councils of Bangladesh|Zila Parishad]], or District Council, which comprises elected members, officials, and women representatives. The council, which includes a chairman and vice-chairman elected from among its members, also features [[Ex officio member|''ex officio'']] official members such as the Deputy Commissioner and the chief executive officer. Empowered by the Local Government Act of 1988 and Zila Parishad Act of 2000, the Zila Parishad is entitled to government grants and possesses the authority to levy taxes, rates, tolls, and fees on specified items.<ref name=":4" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hossain Sheikh |first=Emran |date=28 December 2016 |script-title=bn:যে পদ্ধতিতে জেলা পরিষদ নির্বাচন |trans-title=The manner of Zila Parishad elections |url=https://www.banglatribune.com/others/168629/%E0%A6%AF%E0%A7%87-%E0%A6%AA%E0%A6%A6%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%A7%E0%A6%A4%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%A4%E0%A7%87-%E0%A6%9C%E0%A7%87%E0%A6%B2%E0%A6%BE-%E0%A6%AA%E0%A6%B0%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%B7%E0%A6%A6-%E0%A6%A8%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%B0%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%9A%E0%A6%A8 |access-date=3 April 2024 |website=[[Bangla Tribune]] |language=bn}}</ref> It also bears the responsibility of carrying out development activities by formulating annual and five-year plans in consultation with other local government institutions and individuals, considering their own financial capabilities.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Islam |first=Mohammad Tarikul |date=14 November 2021 |title=Strengthening zila parishads can accelerate rural prosperity |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/views/opinion/news/strengthening-zila-parishads-can-accelerate-rural-prosperity-2229191 |access-date=4 April 2024 |website=The Daily Star |language=en}}</ref> The district headquarters are located in the city of [[Feni, Bangladesh|Feni]].<ref name=":5" />
Since November 2024, Saiful Islam has been serving as the appointed Deputy Commissioner of Feni District,<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 November 2024 |title=Feni DC transferred |url=https://www.observerbd.com/news/498500 |access-date=10 November 2024 |website=[[The Daily Observer (Bangladesh)|The Daily Observer]]}}</ref> superseding Mushammat Shahina Akhtar following protests demanding her removal.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 November 2024 |title=Students form human chain demanding removal of Feni DC |url=https://www.newagebd.net/print/post/249685 |access-date=10 November 2024 |work=[[New Age (Bangladesh)|New Age]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=6 July 2023 |title=10 districts get new DCs |url=https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/10-districts-get-new-dcs-661186 |access-date=3 April 2024 |website=The Business Standard |language=en}}</ref> Khairul Bashar Majumdar Tapon was elected as the Chairman of the Zila Parishad in 2020,<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 December 2020 |title=Tapon takes over charge of Feni Zila Parishad chairman |url=https://www.observerbd.com/news.php?id=291886 |access-date=4 April 2024 |website=The Daily Observer (Bangladesh)}}</ref> while Nahida Akter Tania assumed the position of Chief Executive Officer in 2024.<ref>{{Cite news |date=10 February 2024 |script-title=bn:ফেনী জেলা পরিষদের নতুন প্রধান নির্বাহী কর্মকর্তা নাহিদা আক্তার তানিয়া |trans-title=Nahida Akter Tania the new chief executive officer of Feni Zila Parishad |url=https://www.jaijaidinbd.com/wholecountry/439245 |access-date=4 April 2024 |work=[[Jaijaidin]] |language=bn}}</ref>
=== Constituencies of the national parliament === Feni District is represented by three constituencies in the [[Jatiya Sangsad]]. [[Feni-1]] constituency covers [[Parshuram Upazila|Parshuram]], [[Chhagalnaiya Upazila|Chhagalnaiya]], and [[Fulgazi Upazila|Fulgazi]] upazilas, while [[Feni-2]] encompasses [[Feni Sadar Upazila]] and [[Feni-3]] includes [[Sonagazi Upazila|Sonagazi]] and [[Daganbhuiyan Upazila|Daganbhuiyan]] upazilas.<ref>{{Cite news |date=3 July 2013 |script-title=bn:জাতীয় সংসদের পুনঃনির্ধারিত নির্বাচনী এলাকার চুড়ান্ত তালিকা-২০১৩ |trans-title=Final List of Redrawn Constituencies of Jatiya Sangsad-2013 |url=http://www.ecs.gov.bd/NewsFilesEng/101.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140727220238/http://www.ecs.gov.bd/NewsFilesEng/101.PDF |archive-date=27 July 2014 |work=[[Bangladesh Gazette]] |publisher=[[Department of Printing and Publications]] |language=bn}}</ref>
The constituent positions have been vacant since the dissolution of the national parliament on 6 August 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 August 2024 |title=President dissolves parliament |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/president-dissolves-parliament-3670721 |access-date=10 January 2025 |website=The Daily Star |language=en}}</ref>
== Demographics == {{Historical populations |align=center |percentages=pagr |footnote= Sources:<ref>{{Cite book |title=Bengal. Part II. Tables |publisher=Bengal Secretariat Book Depot |series=Census of India, 1911 |volume=V |location=Calcutta |publication-date=1913}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |title=Bengal. Part II. Tables |publisher=Bengal Secretariat Book Depot |year=1923 |series=Census of India, 1921 |volume=V |location=Calcutta}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite book |title=Bengal. Part II. Tables |publisher=The Manager of Publications, Delhi |year=1942 |series=Census of India, 1941 |volume=IV}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |title=District Census Report Noakhali |publisher=Census Organisation, Pakistan |year=1962 |series=Population Census of Pakistan, 1961 |volume=10 |location=Karachi |at=Part IV, page 2 |chapter=}}</ref><ref name="census2022-nationalreport">{{Cite book |url=https://bbs.portal.gov.bd/sites/default/files/files/bbs.portal.gov.bd/page/b343a8b4_956b_45ca_872f_4cf9b2f1a6e0/2024-01-31-15-51-b53c55dd692233ae401ba013060b9cbb.pdf |title=National Report |date=November 2023 |publisher=[[Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics]] |isbn=9789844752016 |series=Population and Housing Census 2022 |volume=I |location=[[Dhaka]]}}</ref><ref name="census2011-zilareport" /><br /> Notes: Census data 1981 & earlier includes Feni sub-division of Noakhali District |1901 |318837 |1911 |340563 |1921 |377065 |1931 |431450 |1941 |502674 |1951 |540257 |1961 |590341 |1974 |760015 |1981 |898851 |1991 |1096745 |2001 |1240384 |2011 |1437371 |2022 |1648896 }}
At the [[2022 Bangladeshi census|2022 Census of Bangladesh]], Feni District had a population of 1,648,896, ranking it as the 42nd most populous district out of the 64 districts in Bangladesh. Approximately 29.67% of its population resided in urban areas. The average annual [[population growth rate]] stood at 1.22%, equal to the national average. Children under 10 years old accounted for 20.09% (331,332) of the population. The district had a [[population density]] of 1,665 people per square kilometre. Feni Sadar had the highest population density, followed by Daganbhuiyan.
The census data stated that the district comprised 377,164 households, with an average household size of 4.3 people, higher than the national norm.
The [[sex ratio]] in Feni District was 89.87 males per 100 females, lower than the national average of 98.07.
The [[literacy rate]] among individuals aged 7 and over was 80.79%, surpassing the national average of 74.8%. However, males had a higher literacy rate than females.<ref name="census2022-nationalreport" /><ref name="bbs2024" />
=== Religion ===
{{bar box |title=Religions in Feni District (2022)<ref name="census2022-nationalreport"/> |titlebar=#Fcd116 |left1=Religion |right1=Percent |float=right |bars= {{bar percent|[[Islam in Bangladesh|Muslims]]|green|94.41}} {{bar percent|[[Hinduism in Bangladesh|Hindus]]|darkorange|5.53}} {{bar percent|Other or not stated|black|0.06}} }}
{| class="wikitable sortable" |+Religion in present-day Feni District ! ! colspan="2" |1941<ref name=":3" />{{rp|102–103}}{{Efn|Including the former Feni subdivision of Noakhali district}} ! colspan="2" |1981<ref name="census2011" /> ! colspan="2" |1991<ref name="census2011">{{cite web |url=http://203.112.218.65:8008/WebTestApplication/userfiles/Image/PopCenZilz2011/Zila_Feni.pdf |title=Bangladesh Population and Housing Census 2011 Zila Report – Feni |website= |publisher=[[Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics]]}}</ref> ! colspan="2" |2001<ref name="census2011" /> ! colspan="2" |2011<ref name="census2011" /> ! colspan="2" |2022<ref name="census2022-nationalreport" /> |- !Religion !{{Abbr|Pop.|Population}} !% !{{Abbr|Pop.|Population}} !% !{{Abbr|Pop.|Population}} !% !{{Abbr|Pop.|Population}} !% !{{Abbr|Pop.|Population}} !% !{{Abbr|Pop.|Population}} !% |- |[[Islam in Bangladesh|Islam]] [[File:Star and Crescent.svg|15x15px]] |384,593 |76.51% |827,486 |92.06% |1,017,741 |92.80% |1,159,374 |93.47% |1,352,866 |94.12% |1,556,695 |94.41% |- |[[Hinduism in Bangladesh|Hinduism]] [[File:Om.svg|16x16px]] |117,958 |23.47% |70,891 |7.89% |78,373 |7.15% |80,543 |6.49% |83,773 |5.83% |91,160 |5.53% |- |Others{{efn|Including [[Christianity]], [[Buddhism]], or not stated}} |123 |0.02% |474 |0.05% |631 |0.05% |467 |0.04% |732 |0.05% |1,041 |0.06% |- !Total Population !502,674 !100% !898,851 !100% !1,096,745 !100% !1,240,384 !100% !1,437,371 !100% !1,648,896 !100% |}
The majority of the population in this district adheres to [[Islam in Bangladesh|Islam]], with a minority [[Hinduism in Bangladesh|Hindu]] population. [[Muslims]] constitute 94.41% of the population, while [[Hindus]] make up around 5.53%. There is a small population of around 700 Buddhists living in Feni Sadar and Sonagazi upazilas.<ref name="census2022-nationalreport" /><ref name="bbs2024" />
=== Language === The regional language of Feni exhibits notable similarities with the regional languages spoken in [[Chauddagram Upazila|Chauddagram]] and [[Laksam Upazila|Laksam]] upazilas of the [[Comilla]] region, as well as in [[Mirsharai Upazila|Mirsharai]] and [[Baraiyarhat|Baraiyarhat]] regions of Chittagong District. Additionally, the language spoken in the [[Noakhali District|Noakhali]] and [[Lakshmipur District|Lakshmipur]] areas shares many commonalities with the regional language of Feni. One distinctive feature of the Feni dialect is its accessibility to people from various regions of Bangladesh, who can readily understand and adopt its linguistic nuances.<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=bn:ভাষা ও সংস্কৃতি: ফেনী জেলা |trans-title=Language and Culture: Feni District |url=https://www.feni.gov.bd/en/site/page/kuZS-%E0%A6%AD%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%B7%E0%A6%BE-%E0%A6%93-%E0%A6%B8%E0%A6%82%E0%A6%B8%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%95%E0%A7%83%E0%A6%A4%E0%A6%BF |access-date=29 March 2024 |website=[[Bangladesh National Portal]] |language=bn}}</ref>
== Economy == The main occupation of the people of the district are agriculture and [[Remittances to Bangladesh|foreign remittance]]. The main source of incomes are: agriculture 21%, non-agricultural labourer 2.57%, industry 35%, commerce 15.98%, transport and communication 4.66%, construction 1.86%, religious service 0.43%, rent and remittance 11.53% and others 12.19%. There are two industrial areas in this district. Total number of heavy industries are 4, medium industries are 17, small industries are 826 and cottage industries are 3419. There is a gas field in Dhalia union of Feni sadar area. Total area of agriculture land is 75,922 [[hectare]]s and arable land is 74,720 hectares.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":22" />
{{Wide image|Feni city skyline from Feni Garden City rooftop 08 August 2025.jpg|1000px|3=High-resolution panorama of Feni city, taken from Feni garden city, on August 2025.}}
== Education == [[File:Feni govt pilot high school old building.jpeg|thumb|Feni Gov't Pilot High School]] As of 2011, Feni District had 11 [[degree college]]s, 10 [[College|higher secondary colleges]], one girls' [[cadet college]], one [[polytechnic institute]] ([[Feni Polytechnic Institute]]), one computer institute ([[Feni Computer Institute]]), 155 [[secondary school]]s, 19 [[lower secondary school]]s, 528 [[primary school]]s, 99 [[madrasa]]s, six technical and [[Vocational school|vocational institutions]].{{R|name=khan2014|page=40}}<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://203.112.218.65:8008/WebTestApplication/userfiles/Image/District%20Statistics/Feni.pdf |title=Feni |date=December 2013 |publisher=[[Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics]] |isbn=978-9845190459 |series=District Statistics 2011}}</ref> In 2012, a university was established to address the higher educational requirements of students in the region.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |date=19 December 2018 |script-title=bn:স্বপ্ন পূরণের সারথী 'ফেনী ইউনিভার্সিটি' |trans-title=Feni University: a partner in fulfilling dreams |url=https://www.banglanews24.com/education/news/bd/691638.details |access-date=2 May 2024 |website=[[banglanews24.com]] |language=bn}}</ref>
=== Schools === The year 1886 marked a significant milestone in the establishment of modern educational institutions in Feni. [[Nabinchandra Sen]], serving as the Sub-divisional Officer of Feni at the time, founded the inaugural primary school of the sub-division, known today as [[Feni Government Pilot High School|Feni Pilot School]], through community fundraising efforts. Feni's first English high school was established shortly thereafter. Later, in 1910, the first girls' school in Feni was inaugurated. Outside the city of Feni, the oldest noteworthy high schools are Mangalkandi, Chhagalnaiya Pilot,<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=bn:প্রতিষ্ঠান সম্পর্কে |trans-title=About the institution |url=https://chhagalnaiyapilot.edu.bd/About_institute |access-date=3 May 2024 |website=Chhagalnaiya Govt Pilot High School |language=bn}}</ref> and Amirabad, established before 1920.{{R|name=khan2014|page=38}} Additionally, [[Atatürk Government Model High School|Atatürk Model High School]] in Daganbhuiyan Upazila was established in 1939.<ref>{{Cite Banglapedia |article-url=Atatruk Model High School |article=Atatruk Model High School |last=Rahman |first=ABM Mohibbur}}<!-- URL points to the correct article despite spelling error. Do not change. --></ref>
=== Colleges and universities === Founded in 1922, [[Feni College]] stands as a traditional institution dedicated to the advancement of higher education. Before its inception, students from affluent backgrounds typically had to travel to [[Dhaka]] or [[Kolkata]] for further studies. However, the establishment of Feni College provided a local avenue for higher education, enabling students from diverse economic backgrounds to pursue advanced studies. This accessibility contributed to the rapid expansion of the college, marking a significant milestone in the educational landscape of the area. Besides the historical Feni College, colleges that are also available for higher education in Feni include Govt Zia Women's College (established as Feni Women's College),<ref>{{Cite web |script-title=bn:আমাদের সম্পর্কে |trans-title=About us |url=https://www.gzmcfeni.gov.bd/page/1 |access-date=3 May 2024 |website=Govt Zia Women's College |language=bn}}</ref> Chhagalnaiya College, Parshuram College, Fulgazi College, Haji Monir Ahmed College, Sonagazi College, Daganbhuiyan Iqbal Memorial College, Sheikh Shahidul Islam College.{{R|name=khan2014|page=|pages=39-40}} In 2006, Prime Minister [[Khaleda Zia]] inaugurated [[Feni Girls' Cadet College]], one of the three [[cadet college]]s for girls in Bangladesh.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ullah |first=Ahamed |date=9 February 2017 |title=Cadet college education draws greater attention |url=https://www.daily-sun.com/printversion/details/204712 |access-date=2 May 2024 |website=[[Daily Sun (Bangladesh)|Daily Sun]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=15 February 2006 |title=Feni and Joypurhat girls' cadet colleges start from March 25 |url=https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/feni-and-joypurhat-girls-cadet-colleges-start-from-march-25 |access-date=2 May 2024 |website=[[bdnews24.com]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=About FGCC |url=https://fgcc.army.mil.bd/about/ |access-date=2 May 2024 |website=Feni Girls' Cadet College}}</ref> The privately owned [[Feni University]], established in 2012 and beginning its academic activities in 2013, is the only university in the district.<ref name=":6" />
== Health == There are one modern government general hospital, 5 upazila health complexes, one heart foundation hospital, one diabetic hospital, one chest disease clinic ([[tuberculosis]]), one [[trauma center]], one mother and child care center, one nursing training institute, 19 union health centers, 33 union family care centers and 114 community clinics.<ref name=":1" />
There was a private medical college named Feni Medical College from 1997 to 2004.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://opencorporates.com/companies/bd/C-33987 |title=Feni Medical College and Hospital Ltd. |website=OpenCorporates}}</ref>
== Transport ==
=== Road === The district is situated adjacent to the [[Dhaka–Chittagong Highway|Dhaka{{Ndash}}Chittagong Highway]], facilitating convenient access from any district of Bangladesh via Chittagong and Dhaka.<ref name=":2" /> The Feni{{Ndash}}Noakhali Highway serves as a vital link between Feni and Noakhali districts, with a total length of {{Convert|49.56|km}}.<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 January 2019 |script-title=bn:সময়-ব্যয় বাড়ছে ফেনী-নোয়াখালী চার লেন প্রকল্পে |trans-title=Time, cost increasing of Feni{{Ndash}}Noakhali four-lane project |url=https://www.banglanews24.com/national/news/bd/696778.details |access-date=22 March 2023 |website=[[banglanews24.com]] |language=bn}}</ref>
The district boasts a total length of {{Convert|1044.85|km}} of paved roads, complemented by {{Convert|87.96|km}} of semi-paved roads and {{Convert|2,132.96|km}} of dirt roads.<ref name=":1" />
Private bus operators offer a variety of services in Feni District. Star Line Special, providing both AC and non-AC buses, connects Dhaka with Feni, Chhagalnaiya, Parshuram, and Sonagazi. Additionally, S. Alam, Soudia, Keya Paribahan, and Shyamoli are prominent operators serving the area. Star Line Special extends its services from Chittagong to Feni and Parshuram as well. Feni District enjoys bus connections to over 30 districts across Bangladesh and provides access to [[Kolkata]] via [[Benapole]].<ref name=":2" />
=== Rail === {{See also|List of railway stations in Bangladesh#Feni District|label 1=List of railway stations in Feni District}} Feni District is well-connected by rail, with trains serving destinations such as Chittagong, [[Chandpur District|Chandpur]], and Sylhet, besides Dhaka, all from the main [[Feni Junction railway station|Feni railway station]]. Among the trains operating in the region are:
''Mahanagar'', ''Paharika'', ''Meghna'', ''Udayan'', ''Turna'', ''Chattogram Mail'', ''Karnaphuli'', ''Jalalabad'', ''Sagarika'', and ''Mymensingh Express''.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |script-title=bn:যোগাযোগ ব্যবস্থা: ফেনী জেলা |trans-title=Communication System: Feni District |url=https://www.feni.gov.bd/bn/site/page/wCis-%E0%A6%AF%E0%A7%8B%E0%A6%97%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%AF%E0%A7%8B%E0%A6%97-%E0%A6%AC%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%AF%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%B8%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%A5%E0%A6%BE |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240324182613/https://www.feni.gov.bd/bn/site/page/wCis-%E0%A6%AF%E0%A7%8B%E0%A6%97%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%AF%E0%A7%8B%E0%A6%97-%E0%A6%AC%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%AF%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%B8%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%A5%E0%A6%BE |archive-date=24 March 2024 |access-date=13 June 2024 |website=[[Bangladesh National Portal]] |language=bn}}</ref>
A branch line connecting the Tripura border town of [[Belonia, India|Belonia]] with Feni city has been defunct since 17 August 1997, due to financial losses from improved road connectivity. Constructed in 1929 by the [[Assam Bengal Railway]] company, the {{Convert|27|km|abbr=on}} line includes nine stations: Bondhua, Daulatpur, Anandapur, Pirbox, Munshir Haat, Notun Munshir Haat, Fulgazi, Parshuram, and Belonia.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dara |first=Asaduzzaman |date=8 November 2015 |script-title=bn:ফেনী-বিলোনিয়া রেলপথ উধাও |trans-title=Feni–Bilonia railway disappeared |url=https://www.kalerkantho.com/print-edition/2nd-rajdhani/2015/11/08/288112 |access-date=13 June 2024 |website=[[Kaler Kantho]] |place=Feni |language=bn}}</ref> In 2019, an agreement between Bangladesh and India was signed to revive the line primarily for freight traffic, allowing India access to [[Chittagong port]] via Feni.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hossain |first=Anwar |date=6 Sep 2021 |title=Bilateral trade to get a boost |url=https://bangladeshpost.net/posts/bilateral-trade-to-get-a-boost-67952 |access-date=13 June 2024 |website=[[Bangladesh Post]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Bhowmik |first=Shilajit Kar |date=11 December 2018 |title=Efforts underway to revive old Belonia-Feni railway ties |url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/foreign-affairs/163168/efforts-underway-to-revive-old-belonia-feni |access-date=13 June 2024 |work=[[Dhaka Tribune]]}}</ref>
Other railway stations on the main line in [[Feni Sadar Upazila|Feni Sadar]] include Fazilpur, Kalidah, and Sharishadi, while Muhuriganj railway station is located in [[Chhagalnaiya Upazila|Chhagalnaiya]]. All of these stations, except Fazilpur, are closed {{As of|2015|lc=y}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dara |first=Asaduzzaman |date=24 November 2015 |script-title=bn:লোকবল সংকটে ফেনীর তিন রেল স্টেশন বন্ধ |trans-title=Three railway stations of Feni closed due to manpower shortage |url=https://www.kalerkantho.com/print-edition/2nd-rajdhani/2015/11/24/293987 |access-date=13 June 2024 |website=[[Kaler Kantho]] |language=bn}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=15 November 2015 |script-title=bn:লোকবল সংকটে ফেনীর তিন স্টেশন বন্ধ |trans-title=Three stations of Feni closed due to manpower shortage |url=http://weeklyekota.net/printPaper.php?serial=390 |work=Weekly Ekota |language=bn |volume=45 |issue=15}}</ref>
=== Air === In 2023, Bird's Eye Feni Helicopter and Air Service initiated a charter helicopter service, providing private helicopter rides throughout the country, including destinations like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Cox's Bazar. The service is designed to cater to diverse needs such as emergency patient transport, corporate travel, and media coverage.<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 July 2023 |script-title=bn:ফেনীতে 'প্রাইভেট হেলিকপ্টার' সেবা উদ্বোধন |trans-title=Private helicopter service unveiled in Feni |url=https://www.ajkalerkhobor.net/details.php?id=140227 |access-date=22 March 2024 |website=Ajkaler Khobor |language=bn}}</ref>
== Notable [[people]] == * [[Khaleda Zia]], Ex. Prime Minister of Bangladesh * [[Shamsher Gazi]], resistance fighter during British rule in the subcontinent.{{R|ahmed1990|page=98}} * [[Hamidul Huq Chowdhury]], Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan. * [[Saber Hossain Chowdhury|Saber H Chowdhury]], Former Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of Bangladesh & Former President of Bangladesh Cricket Board * [[Shahid Uddin Ahmed Selim|Shahiduddin Ahmed Selim]], Bangladeshi footballer and coach, captained the [[Bangladesh national football team]] at the [[1980 AFC Asian Cup]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://bangla.bdnews24.com/sport/article1995052.bdnews |script-title=bn:কিংবদন্তি ফুটবলার সহিদ উদ্দিন সেলিম আর নেই |trans-title=Legendary footballer Shahid Uddin Selim is no more |website=bdnews24.com |language=bn |access-date=11 January 2022 |archive-date=13 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113092959/https://bangla.bdnews24.com/sport/article1995052.bdnews |url-status=live}}</ref> * [[Abul Kalam Azad Chowdhury]], former [[vice chancellor]] of the [[University of Dhaka]] * [[Zahur Hossain Chowdhury]], Bangladeshi journalist & Politician * [[Anwarullah Chowdhury]], [[vice-chancellor]] of the [[University of Dhaka]] * [[Aurangzeb Chowdhury]], Chief of Navy * [[Habibullah Bahar Chowdhury]], first health minister of [[East Pakistan]], one of the founders of [[Mohammedan Sporting Club (Kolkata)]].<ref name="eminent">{{Cite web |url=http://www.feni.gov.bd/site/page/460017da-2144-11e7-8f57-286ed488c766/%E0%A6%AA%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%B0%E0%A6%96%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%AF%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%A4%20%E0%A6%AC%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%AF%E0%A6%95%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%A4%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%A4%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%AC |script-title=bn:প্রখ্যাত ব্যক্তিত্ব |trans-title=Eminent personalities |website=Bangladesh National Portal}}</ref> * [[Nabi Chowdhury]], Bangladeshi footballer, first [[East Pakistani]] or [[Bengalis|Bengali]] player to captain the [[Pakistan national football team]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.kalerkantho.com/print-edition/kaler-khela/2014/09/19/130495 |script-title=bn:এশিয়ান গেমস অনেক দূরে চলে গেছে |language=bn |website=[[Kaler Kantho]] |publisher= |trans-title=The Asian Games going far away |date=19 September 2014 |access-date=13 February 2023 |archive-date=13 February 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230213074614/https://www.kalerkantho.com/print-edition/kaler-khela/2014/09/19/130495 |url-status=live}}</ref> * [[Selim Al Deen]], playwright and theater artist<ref name="eminent" /> * [[Zafar Imam]], politician * [[Kamal Ahmed Majumder|Kamal Ahmed Majumdar]], politician * [[Shahidullah Kaiser]], novelist and journalist<ref name="eminent" /> * [[Shamsunnahar Mahmud]], politician and educator * [[Selina Parvin]], writer and journalist<ref name="eminent" /> * [[Zahir Raihan]], film director and writer<ref name="eminent" /> * [[Giasuddin Selim]], film director * [[Mohammad Saifuddin]], cricketer * [[Abdus Salam (activist)|Abdus Salam]], [[Bengali language movement]] protester<ref name="eminent" /> * [[Abdus Salam (editor)|Abdus Salam]], former editor of the ''Pakistan Observer'' (later the ''Bangladesh Observer''). Ekushey Padak winning journalist * [[Shihab Shaheen]], film actor and director * [[Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury|Iqbal Sobhan]], journalist * [[Mohiuddin Ahmed (publisher)|Mohiuddin Ahmed]], editor and publisher, and the founder of [[The University Press Limited]] * [[Joynal Hazari]], politician * [[Abdul Awal Mintoo|Abdul Awal]], politician * [[Khawaja Ahmed]], member of the 1st Bangladeshi parliament * [[Bimal Kar (footballer)|Bimal Kar]], Bangladeshi footballer and referee, represented the [[Shadhin Bangla football team]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.kalerkantho.com/online/sport/2024/09/19/1426869 |script-title=bn:চলে গেলেন স্বাধীন বাংলা ফুটবল দলের খেলোয়াড় বিমল কর |trans-title=Bimal Kar, player of the Shadhin Bengal football team, passed away |date=September 19, 2024 |website=[[Kaler Kantho]] |language=bn |access-date=20 September 2024 |archive-date=20 September 2024 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240920081434/https://www.kalerkantho.com/online/sport/2024/09/19/1426869 |url-status=live}}</ref> * [[Fahamedul Islam]], footballer for [[Bangladesh national football team]]..
==See also== * [[Khondoler misti]]
== Notes == {{notelist}}
==References== {{Reflist |refs= <ref name="ahmed1990">{{Cite book |last=Ahmed |first=Jamir |title=Phenīra itihāsa |date=March 1990 |publisher=Samatata Publication |location=Chittagong |pages= |language=bn |script-title=bn:ফেনীর ইতিহাস |trans-title=History of Feni |lccn=91901208 |oclc=25204071}}</ref>
<ref name="khan2014">{{Cite book |title=Present State of Folklore in Feni District |date=June 2014 |publisher=[[Bangla Academy (Bangladesh)|Bangla Academy]] |isbn=978-9840758531 |editor-last=Khan |editor-first=Shamsuzzaman |series={{Langx|bn|বাংলাদেশের লোকজ সংস্কৃতি গ্রন্থমালা |lit=Bangladesh Folklore Series |translit=Bāṃlādeśera lokaja saṃskr̥ti granthamālā |label=none}} |location=Dhaka |language=bn |script-title=bn:ফেনী |trans-title=Feni |editor-last2=Hossain |editor-first2=Md. Altaf}}</ref> }}
==Further reading== * {{Cite book |last=Ahmed |first=Jamir |title=Phenīra itihāsa |date=March 1990 |publisher=Samatata Publication |location=Chittagong |pages= |language=bn |script-title=bn:ফেনীর ইতিহাস |trans-title=History of Feni |lccn=91901208 |oclc=25204071}} Extensive history of Feni. <!-- Free scanned copy available online at Bangladesh Civil Service Administration Academy Library for logged-in users. -->
==External links== {{Commons category|Feni District}} * {{url|http://www.zpfeni.gov.bd|Feni District Administration}} {{Feni District}} {{Divisions and districts of Bangladesh}} {{Authority control}}
[[Category:Feni District| ]] [[Category:Districts of Chittagong Division]] [[Category:Districts of Bangladesh]]