HC asks why DAP implementation in Dhaka remains invisible

The High Court has issued a rule asking why implementation of Dhaka's Detailed Area Plan (DAP) remains largely invisible and why the authorities' alleged failure to properly implement it should not be declared illegal.

A bench of Justice Khizir Ahmed Chowdhury and Justice AFM Saiful Karim issued the rule today (14 September) after hearing a writ petition filed by Manobadhikar O Samaj Unnayan Sangstha (Mosus), a human rights and social development organisation.

The Housing and Public Works secretary, Rajuk chairman and other relevant authorities have been asked to respond to the rule within four weeks.

Senior lawyer and Mosus Chairman Md Golam Rahman Bhuiyan, who appeared for the petitioner, confirmed the matter.

According to the petition, the DAP was formulated to promote planned, environmentally friendly and people-oriented urbanisation in Dhaka. However, its implementation has not become visible despite the passage of considerable time.

The lack of effective implementation has contributed to worsening urban problems, including encroachment on water bodies and open spaces, unplanned construction, environmental degradation and severe traffic congestion, the petition said.

The petition was filed under Article 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law, seeking effective action and accountability from the authorities responsible for implementing the DAP.

After the hearing, Golam Rahman Bhuiyan said effective implementation of the DAP was not merely an urban planning issue but was also linked to citizens' fundamental rights, environmental protection and safe living conditions for future generations.

He expressed hope that the court's order would strengthen accountability among the authorities and accelerate planned and sustainable development in Dhaka.