Dhaka: Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain today said the ongoing development work has been creating conducive religious atmosphere for prayers at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque. 'The work on the modernization, beautification and development project of the mosque will begin shortly. Everyone must abide by the government rules and regulations in implementing any development activities,' he said at a press conference here this afternoon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Ministry of Religious Affairs organized the press conference to inform the countrymen about the overall 'development and renovation of Baitul Mukarram Mosque.' Dr Khalid mentioned that while changes cannot happen overnight, several development works have already been completed, with some ongoing and more to commence soon.
Dr Khalid highlighted various renovation and development works at the national mosque. A new sub-station has been constructed and a high-power generator installed at a cost of Taka 11 crore to address electricity issues. Fire extinguishing systems have been added, with fire hydrants installed at 80 sensitive spots. A submersible pump has been set up to ensure an uninterrupted water supply, and a modern sound system has been added.
The adviser further stated that a new drainage system has been renovated, and all 40 AC units inside the mosque and the women's prayer rooms have been serviced and activated. Additionally, 12,000 square feet of high-quality carpets have been added, and the prayer mats and carpets of the minar have been replaced at a cost of Taka 49.17 lakh.
In the past year, 120 new ceiling fans and 10 pedestal fans have been added to the 3rd and 4th floors of the mosque. An agreement with a private security company ensures round-the-clock cleaning, with 12 individuals appointed for this task. Moreover, 30 toilets and ablution basins have been newly constructed in the east with a modern design.
As part of the development work, four damaged gates on the south and east sides have been reconstructed, and overhead shoe boxes have been provided to the mosque. Dr Khalid also reported that Taka two crore of arrears have been collected from the Baitul Mukarram Mosque Market, and two shops have been recovered from illegal occupants. The two car parking spaces in the market have generated revenue of Taka 70.50 lakh, increasing the capital of the mosque and the market from Tk 90 to Tk 110 crore in the past year.
The press conference was attended by Religious Affairs Secretary Md Kamal Uddin, Additional Secretary Imtiaz Ahmed, Islamic Foundation Director General A Salam Khan, WAQF Administrator Nur Alam, and other senior ministry officials.