In response to the tragic fire incident at the Green Cozy Cottage building on Bailey Road in the capital, the government has launched a vigorous campaign against establishments disregarding approved designs and fire safety protocols.
Various agencies, including Rajdhani Unnayan Kartipakhha (Rajuk), Dhaka city corporations, and law enforcement bodies, have initiated concerted efforts to address widespread violations posing risks to city residents' safety.
A senior official overseeing the operations highlighted their comprehensive approach aimed at enforcing regulatory compliance. Two teams are actively involved—one team gathers information on establishments violating Rajuk directives, while the other conducts enforcement based on their findings.
As part of this crackdown, Rajuk demolished a rooftop restaurant situated in the Gausia Twin Peak building on Sat Masjid Road. The demolition followed the restaurant's failure to comply with approved designs and regulations. Rajuk Zone-3 Director and Executive Magistrate Tajina Sarwar disclosed that the building, originally approved for office use, was illegally hosting 12 restaurants and food court businesses.
Similarly, the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has taken decisive action by sealing off an 11-story building named Keari Crescent Tower due to identified fire safety hazards. Executive Magistrate Md Jahangir Alam led inspection efforts, uncovering numerous irregularities within the premises, including improperly stored LNG gas cylinders and obstructed emergency exits.
Inspections also revealed significant deficiencies in the design and layout of visa processing offices within the building, prompting immediate action. To hold violators accountable, Executive Magistrate Md Jahangir Alam ordered the arrest of individuals associated with the illegal operations, imposing fines amounting to Tk3 lakh.
Meanwhile, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) teams in Wari's Rankin Street area have inspected over 50 restaurants since Sunday night, detaining 16 individuals for failing to adhere to fire safety standards.
DB Chief Mohammad Harunor Rashid emphasized the need for rigorous inspections to prevent tragic incidents like the Bailey Road fire. He stressed the importance of identifying irregularities in fire safety compliance and promptly informing relevant authorities.
Ashraful Islam, Rajuk's chief town planner, highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the prioritization of issues such as tampering with approved designs and mismanagement of restaurants.
Collaborative efforts between government agencies aim to identify and mitigate risks across the city, with a focus on ensuring public safety. Ongoing inspections and enforcement operations underscore the government's commitment to safeguarding residents and properties.
Ashraful Islam reiterated the intensified efforts, emphasizing a particular focus on addressing violations in both housing projects and commercial establishments.
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