Chattogram: Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher today announced that key development projects in Chattogram, including the waterlogging mitigation scheme and elevated expressway, are slated for completion by December this year. The projects, which have seen investments worth thousands of crores of taka, have been underway for the past eight to ten years. Completion is crucial for realizing the full benefits for city residents, the minister stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Zakaria Taher made these remarks during a meeting with officials from the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA) at the CDA office. CDA Chairman Engineer Nurul Karim was also present. The minister highlighted that approximately 90 to 95 percent of the major projects have been completed, but some minor tasks remain, delaying the full benefits for the people.
The minister emphasized his visit to Chattogram aims to address these issues swiftly. He mentioned discussions with Chattogram WASA authorities, who assured him that their work would be finished by June 30. Additionally, the construction of the flyover ramp, initially set for December completion, is now expected to be finished by September.
Speaking about the waterlogging mitigation project, the minister noted that the 34th Engineering Construction Brigade (34 ECB) of the Bangladesh Army has completed about 95 percent of the work. He expressed optimism that the city would start experiencing the benefits during the upcoming monsoon season.
In response to concerns about fragmented implementation of the CDA's waterlogging projects, the minister confirmed that Chattogram City Corporation and CDA are collaboratively working on 21 small canals, and any deficiencies will be addressed promptly.
He reiterated the government's strict stance against unauthorized building construction, emphasizing "zero tolerance" for violations of approved building plans. The government now requires a comprehensive approval process for building designs, including architectural, structural, electromechanical, and plumbing plans. Occupancy certificates will not be issued for buildings that violate approved designs, and utility services will be withheld without such certificates.
Regarding past violations of building regulations, the minister stated that the government would explore legal actions against offenders. Earlier in the day, the minister inspected several ongoing development projects in Chattogram city.