Online Desk :

Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) on Saturday unleashed drives on risky buildings and shopping malls in the capital Dhaka against the backdrop of the tragic Baily Road fire that claimed at least 46 lives so far. While talking to the reporters, RAJUK Chairman Anisur Rahman Mia said the connection of utility services will be cut off if any building or shopping mall is found risky in the capital. “We will disconnect utility services to risky buildings and shopping malls without prior notice,” warned the RAJUK chairman. Mia alleged that at least 70 percent of people do not construct their buildings according to the design even after getting approval from the RAJUK.   “We will conduct drives on the buildings and shopping malls and will encourage people not to visit the risky establishments from tomorrow,” Mia said.

The frequent building fires in the capital have tragically led to the loss of life and property. However, the lack of action from the RAJUK against the faulty building owners has vented public anger and complaints against the organisation. The RAJUK chairman said legal battles are currently underway against owners of the establishments that caught fire previously for violation of the safety regulations. He further stated that the organisation will assist in ensuring that any of its officials found responsible for the Bailey Road fire incident will face legal action. Besides, while talking to the Daily Sun, Mahfuz Reza, assistant director (Estates & Lands) and Liaison Officer of the RAJUK, said that he is not interested in making any comment on why the RAJUK remains inactive over the years in taking action against such irregularities and why it becomes proactive when a fire incident takes places in the capital.