Dhaka: Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) Chairman Air Vice Marshal Mostafa Mahmud Siddiq today revealed that at least 525 high-rise buildings have been constructed illegally within the designated no-fly zones surrounding Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Addressing the media at the CAAB headquarters in the capital, he emphasized that these structures were erected without the necessary clearance from the aviation regulator, posing potential risks to flight safety.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the CAAB does not have the authority to demolish the structures. The chairman stated that CAAB has consistently communicated with RAJUK (Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha) regarding this matter, and it is now RAJUK’s responsibility to take appropriate action against these unauthorized constructions. Initially, during the press conference, the CAAB chief reported that the number of unauthorized buildings was 263, but later corrected this figure to 525.
The issue has gained renewed attention following a recent tragic plane crash on the Milestone School campus in the Diabari area of Uttara, which resulted in the deaths of 35 people and left many injured. Responding to media inquiries, CAAB officials clarified that no unauthorized high-rise structures exist in the immediate vicinity of the Milestone campus. They noted that the maximum permissible height in that area is 150 feet, with the tallest building currently standing at 135 feet.
Regarding the progress of the much-anticipated third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the CAAB chairman refrained from providing a specific inauguration date. However, he assured that efforts are underway to make the terminal fully operational soon. He also mentioned that discussions are ongoing with the Japanese consortium responsible for managing the new terminal’s operations, and a formal agreement will be signed once both parties reach a consensus.
The chairman further informed that the upgrading work of Cox’s Bazar Airport is nearing completion and will be finished soon.