RAJUK prepares for demolition of BGMEA building

Association (BGMEA) building constructed illegally on the Hatirjheel, the only navigable canal in the capital city, reports UNB.

The team, including members of law enforcement agencies, along with necessary equipment took position in front of the 16-storey building to start demolition works on Tuesday morning.

All preparations have been taken to demolish the building, said RAJUK director (admin), Khandaker Aliour Rahman.

"We have given them [institutes that are housed in the building] two-hour time to remove their valuables," he added.

Later, the gas, electricity and other utility service will be cut off.

Meanwhile, RAJUK on Monday night sent a letter to Hatirjheel project director for taking steps for demolishing the building following a High Court order.

In 2011, the High Court ordered demolition of the 16-storey building as it was constructed in defiance of relevant laws, calling it a 'cancer' in the canal.

Earlier on 2 April 2018, the Supreme Court granted BGMEA one more year (until 12 April 2019) for demolishing following a leave-to-appeal after giving an undertaking.

The 16-storey BGMEA Bhaban stands on a critical spot in Dhaka, blocking the flow of water between Hatirjheel canal and Begunbari canal.