Uppercrust’s late-night operations raise questions over zoning laws

Staff Reporter :

Concerns are mounting over the continued operation of Uppercrust Café and Restaurant – House 6 road 102 Gulshan 2 Dhaka, a popular eatery that remains open until midnight despite being located within a residential premises-an apparent violation of zoning regulations enforced by RAJUK.

RAJUK, the capital’s development authority, has in recent months intensified drives against illegal commercial activities in residential areas, reiterating that businesses operating without approved land-use conversion would face closure.

The aim, officials say, is to restore the residential character of neighbourhoods increasingly affected by unregulated cafés, restaurants and shops.

Against this backdrop, the continued late-night operation of Uppercrust has drawn sharp criticism from local residents. Neighbours allege that the café operates from a building designated strictly for residential use and has not displayed any visible approval permitting commercial activity.

Residents complain that the establishment’s operations-particularly up to 12:00 am-have led to persistent noise, increased traffic, parking congestion and general disruption to daily life.

“This is not a commercial zone,” said one resident, requesting anonymity. “We are being forced to live with crowds, cars and noise every night, despite clear rules that prohibit this.”

Urban planners note that zoning laws are central to Dhaka’s liveability. “When residential areas are informally converted into commercial hubs, it creates long-term problems-strain on infrastructure, safety risks and loss of community spaces,” said an urban development expert.

RAJUK regulations stipulate that any residential building used for commercial purposes must first undergo an official conversion process, meeting strict criteria and obtaining formal approval. Failure to comply can result in fines, sealing of premises, or permanent closure.

So far, there has been no public clarification on whether Uppercrust holds the necessary permits. Residents are urging RAJUK to conduct an immediate inspection and take action consistent with its ongoing enforcement campaign.

As the city grapples with balancing business growth and residential rights, the case of Uppercrust highlights a broader challenge: whether zoning laws will be applied uniformly, or selectively overlooked. For residents of the area, the issue is simple. “Rules must apply to everyone,” one local said. “Otherwise, residential neighbourhoods will disappear entirely.”