Political Desk

Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Senior Joint Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), expressed concern today over the unregulated construction of buildings in Dhaka, citing widespread disregard for the city’s Building Code.

Speaking at a Doa Mahfil (prayer gathering) at Nayapaltan to commemorate the late Saiful Islam Potu, former Vice President of the Jatiyatabadi Swecchasebak Dal, Rizvi said, “No one follows the Building Code relevant to earthquakes. Everyone is constructing buildings and adding floors as they please.”

He highlighted environmental and infrastructural issues, stating, “Land grabbers have destroyed the canals, wetlands, and rivers of Dhaka city. Buildings are being constructed illegally without proper approvals, yet the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) is not taking effective action.”

Rizvi further criticized the links between illegal land acquisition and political influence. “The same land grabbers who destroy canals and rivers often rise to political leadership positions and accumulate wealth through illegal means. Such incidents have occurred more frequently during the current government’s tenure,” he added.

In addition to commenting on urban development issues, Rizvi paid tribute to Saiful Islam Potu, recalling his political contributions. “Saiful was a tested leader. Despite persistent oppression and torture under the government, he always stood by me in various movements and struggles,” Rizvi said.

The remarks underscore ongoing political and civic concerns regarding urban planning, environmental management, and regulatory oversight in Dhaka, amid criticism of enforcement authorities for failing to curb unauthorized construction.