CA for separate authority over approval of buildings, constructions nationwide

The government today (27 November) approved the draft of the Rajuk Ordinance 2025, while Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus directed concerned authorities to create a separate authority to oversee the approval of buildings and construction works nationwide.

The Council of Advisers today gave the approval to the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) Ordinance 2025 at its meeting at the Chief Adviser's Office (CAO) here with Prof Yunus in the chair.

"Honorable Chief Adviser directed the Housing and Public Works ministry to examine whether a separate authority can be created that will be responsible for approving buildings and constructions across the whole of Bangladesh," Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said at briefing at the Foreign Service Academy here this afternoon after the meeting.

The Chief Adviser proposed creating a separate body as the Rajuk is authorised to give permission only in areas within its jurisdiction.  

During discussions on the Rajuk Ordinance, the press secretary said, Prof Yunus raised serious concerns over unsafe construction practices spreading across the country, including villages. 

The Chief Adviser noted that many four or five-storey buildings are being constructed, but the question is whether these buildings are being built following the Bangladesh National Building Code, even though the country faces earthquake and fire hazards.

The press secretary said the Council of Advisers emphasised on ensuring abiding by the construction rules and fire safety measures while constructing any building. 

About the new Rajuk ordinance, Shafiqul Alam said it was essential because the existing Rajuk law cannot address the current issues arising from the rapid expansion of Rajuk's jurisdiction and responsibilities.

The ordinance introduces new features for redevelopment, land readjustment and preventing the misuse of playgrounds, wetlands and natural water bodies, he said, adding, one major clause states that "if landowners agree in 60 percent cases, redevelopment projects may precede under this method".

During the meeting, the Chief Adviser also ordered that "no Union Parishad within Rajuk's area may issue any building approval". 

The ordinance incorporates provisions for regulation of building construction, excavation of water bodies, filling of low land, prevention of obstruction of natural water flow, and restrictions on changing the classification of playgrounds, parks and water bodies.

The new law introduces penalties for constructing buildings in violation of approved designs, as well as provisions for removal of "deviation-prone and dangerous structures." 

It also bars the Rajuk chairman, members or employees from having any share, interest or participation in contracts linked to Rajuk operations.