Strict measures to stop construction of buildings outside approved design: Housing Minister

He made these remarks at a meeting with members of the Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB) and Bangladesh Land Developer Association in the ministry's conference room at the Secretariat on Sunday (August 23).

The minister said that in the last 17 years, the existing laws and policies were not properly implemented in building construction. Although many buildings' approved designs included sewage treatment plants (STPs) and soak wells, some developer companies did not construct them. From now on, no relaxation will be given in implementing the law.

He said members of REHAB and Bangladesh Land Developer Association also need to be aware of constructing buildings and housing projects in compliance with the law. The entire process of RAJUK's land use clearance and design approval is being brought under 100 percent digitalisation.

He also said that the rules of the National Housing Authority will be amended to bring developer companies outside the capital under a specific policy.

At the meeting, Housing and Public Works Deputy Minister Ahmmad Sohel Monjur said developer companies must seriously consider the issue of customer suffering. Many customers are not getting flats or apartments even after paying for years. Again, the deposited money of customers who cannot continue installments according to the contract remains stuck for a long time. He urged these issues to be considered from a humanitarian perspective.

RAJUK Chairman Engineer Md. Riazul Islam, Additional Secretary Md. Abdul Matin, and officials of the ministry and concerned organisations were present at the meeting.

Leaders of REHAB and Bangladesh Land Developer Association presented their positions on building construction and housing development in compliance with laws and rules. At the same time, they also gave opinions on the Dhaka Metropolitan Detailed Area Plan (DAP) and the Dhaka Metropolitan Building Construction Rules.