Rajshahi, Dec 15 (V7N) – Growing concerns over unsafe and unauthorized high-rise buildings are causing widespread anxiety among residents of Rajshahi city, particularly following recent earthquake tremors.

At Saheb Bazar Zero Point in the Rajshahi metropolitan area, a building known as SS Tower was constructed up to 12 storeys without proper approval. Due to prolonged legal complications, the building has remained abandoned for the last 10 years and has been officially listed as a risky structure.

In addition, two buildings in the Masterpara area of the city have been in a dangerous condition for a long time. According to the Rajshahi Development Authority (RDA), one building has tilted onto another, creating panic among nearby residents.

RDA officials said there are currently more than 300 multi-storey buildings in Rajshahi city. The last official survey conducted in 2008 identified 58 buildings as risky. Many building owners continued construction without approved plans, design clearance, or height-related no-objection certificates from the city corporation. In most cases, owners failed to produce the required documents, while some refused to cooperate with inspectors.

The RDA has issued show-cause notices and filed cases against 261 building owners for constructing buildings without approval. Authorities also said demolition orders have been issued for several structures deemed highly dangerous.

Recent seismic activity has further heightened public fear, with residents warning that poorly constructed high-rise buildings pose serious risks of accidents and loss of life.

Md. Didarul Alam, Assistant Director of Rajshahi Fire Service and Civil Defence, said that although regulations require clearance certificates and adequate firefighting systems in multi-storey buildings, most owners and developers are not complying with these safety measures.

RDA Executive Engineer Md. Abdullah Al Tariq said action is being taken against those who violated construction rules. He added that illegal extended portions of several buildings have already been demolished as part of enforcement efforts.

The RDA reiterated that ensuring compliance with building regulations is essential to protect lives and reduce disaster risks in the rapidly growing city.

END/MRA/SMA/