Photo : Messenger
Stringent measures are being initiated against 20,000 multi-storied buildings found to be non-compliant with regulations. These buildings are primarily located in areas stretching from Uttara to Old Dhaka, and from Gabtali to Postogola, including the expeditionary zones of Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi. Additionally, decisive actions are being taken against identified high-risk markets. The government is diligently striving to mitigate fire hazards ahead of the upcoming summer season. Directives have been issued from the highest echelons of the government to ensure rigorous enforcement in collaboration with Rajuk, the fire service, and law enforcement agencies.
Following the tragic Nimtali incident, the fire service is poised to prioritise the implementation of the 17-point recommendations concerning the management of hazardous buildings in the capital. On February 29, a devastating fire engulfed a building housing posh restaurant on Bailey Road, claiming the lives of 46 individuals, including women, children, students, expatriates, and Awami League leaders. In the aftermath of this catastrophe, the Prime Minister issued directives for stringent actions to be taken. Subsequently, the fire service revealed that the building had previously received several fire hazard notices, which went unheeded. Additionally, Rajuk announced that there was no authorisation for commercial activities at the site.
Following the incident, the police swiftly took action by filing a case, leading to the arrest of four individuals. According to sources from Rajuk and the Fire Service, directives have been issued from the Prime Minister's Office to all relevant departments to undertake precautionary measures aimed at minimising the risk of fires before the upcoming summer. Since then, concerned authorities have been actively engaged in planning and coordination.
Rajuk sources indicate that preparations are underway to address buildings previously identified as hazardous, which have received notices. Approximately 20,000 such buildings are slated for action. Rajuk will collaborate with the fire service, police, and magistrates in this endeavor. This comprehensive campaign is set to cover areas spanning from Uttara to Old Dhaka, and from Gabtali to Postogola, encompassing the entirety of the capital.
RAJUK Chairman Anisur Rahman Mia emphasised to reporters that strict action is being initiated against buildings that have been previously issued notices. He asserted that the authority is determined to take action without hesitation, regardless of the influence of those involved.
Responding to a query, he stated that the goal is to prevent such accidents from occurring again. He highlighted that accidents often happen when safety codes are disregarded or when hazardous conditions are ignored without appropriate action being taken.
Fire Service Director (Operation and Maintenance) Lt. Col. Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury expressed to reporters, "We conduct an annual survey. Each year, buildings susceptible to fire hazards are surveyed, and recommendations are communicated to the respective building owners to implement necessary precautions. However, there seems to be a lack of concern until an unfortunate incident occurs. It's only after an accident that everyone begins to address the issue.”
He emphasised, "We have submitted objections regarding 20,000 buildings to Rajuk and the City Corporation. It is imperative that necessary measures are promptly undertaken to mitigate the risk of fires during the upcoming summer season. Failure to do so could result in significant loss of life in the event of a fire. Consequently, operations are being conducted in collaboration with law enforcement forces."
Regarding the unimplemented recommendations, he highlighted that the investigation committee of the fire service had proposed 17 points following the tragic incident in which 124 individuals perished in a fire in Nimtoli, Old Dhaka, back in 2010. Regrettably, these recommendations have remained unimplemented even after 14 years.
The recommendations encompass several critical measures aimed at enhancing fire safety and preventing similar tragedies: Relocation of warehouses and factories; Legal measures against unauthorized facilities; Enhanced licensing procedures; Building construction standards; Public awareness campaigns; Enforcement of prohibitions; Electrical safety measures; Regular transformer inspections; Installation of hydrant points; Establishment of national task force; Enhanced interdepartmental coordination.
Messenger/Disha
