Draft ordinance proposes N’ganj Dev Authority
Staff Correspondent :
The government is set to establish the Narayanganj Development Authority to create a planned and modern city in Narayanganj and its surrounding areas. The Ministry of Housing and Public Works has prepared a draft ordinance and is currently seeking feedback from relevant stakeholders.
Officials from the Ministry of Public Works stated that the main objectives are to preserve the ecological balance of this important commercial region along the Shitalakshya River, prevent unplanned urbanization, ensure disaster-resilient management, and promote tourism development.
According to the proposed ordinance, the authority will be led by a Chairman and four full-time members, along with five additional representatives from various sectors. The Chairman and full-time members will be permanent employees of the authority. The Chairman’s term will be three years, and no individual may serve more than two terms as Chairman or full-time member.
Like other development authorities, the responsibilities and functions of the Narayanganj Development Authority have been clearly defined in the draft. The authority will prepare a master plan for the Narayanganj area, taking into account all related concerns.
The ordinance also specifies the powers and duties of the authority. It may prepare a master plan and impose land acquisition, purchase, and development fees in areas under its jurisdiction.
Land cannot be used for any purpose other than those specified in the master plan. Violations may result in up to one year in prison and fines up to BDT 1 million.
The draft takes a particularly strict stance on waterbody protection. No rivers, canals, or natural water bodies may be obstructed without the authority’s permission. Creating artificial reservoirs or filling low-lying land to block water flow is strictly prohibited.
The authority may order the halt of any excavation work, and violations may lead to two years in prison or fines of BDT 2 Lakh for first-time offenders.
For repeat offenses, punishments increase to two to ten years’ in prison and fines of BDT 2 lakh to Tk 1 million. Additionally, the 2000 Conservation Act will remain effective for changing the classification of playgrounds, parks, and natural water bodies, according to the draft ordinance.