Dhaka:The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Undertakings has recommended stringent measures to curb the construction of buildings in Dhaka that do not adhere to approved designs and to halt unauthorized commercial activities in residential areas.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the committee of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad convened for its fourth meeting at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban's Cabinet Room, chaired by Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni. The meeting focused on reviewing the operations of the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk), including its current housing and infrastructure projects, financial management, and audit reports.
The committee instructed Rajuk to ensure regular monitoring, conduct mobile court operations, and enforce laws strictly to prevent harassment by real estate developers. Additionally, it urged the timely allocation of plots to individuals affected by land acquisition for the Purbachal New Town project.
There was also a call for investigations into previous plot allocation irregularities and the influence of middlemen, with necessary actions to be taken. Rajuk was advised to consider expanding housing facilities by constructing multi-storey apartments rather than initiating new land-based projects.
For sustainable urbanization, the committee highlighted the need for an integrated utility framework, underground cabling, fire safety in new commercial establishments, adequate washroom and prayer facilities, and the preservation of Dhaka's lakes. A feasibility study on increasing solar power usage in the capital was also recommended.
Expressing concern over audit delays, the committee advocated the adoption of modern digital systems to expedite audits and address audit objections. The meeting was attended by committee members and officials from the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General, the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, Rajuk, the National Housing Authority, and the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat.