Staff Reporter :
In the wake of the devastating Bailey Road fire that claimed 46 lives, Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has announced the government’s consideration of forming a unified body to oversee building approvals and supervision.
Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Sunday, Kamal addressed concerns surrounding the Bailey Road tragedy. He revealed that the building lacked permission to house a restaurant, yet one operated within it in violation of regulations.
“The building’s construction did not include plans for a restaurant,” the Home Minister emphasised.
“Who is responsible for this? There is clear negligence involved. Those responsible will be held accountable under the law,” he added sternly.
“We’re considering forming a dedicated authority,” Kamal stated. “The Fire Service, RAJUK (Capital Development Authority), or the Police could potentially lead this agency.
It would necessarily include representatives from the fire service and the offices of the mayors. We’re still evaluating the best structure for this authority.”
Fire officials said that the building, originally intended for commercial use, housed a restaurant without proper permits. They further confirmed the absence of adequate fire safety measures, with a single, unsuitable staircase serving as the sole emergency exit.
This revelation sparked a surge in activity across various departments as the police, city corporations, and RAJUK launched a joint effort to identify and address irregularities in buildings and eateries. RAJUK has taken decisive action, demolishing unapproved restaurants and imposing fines on their owners.
Additionally, authorities have sealed off dozens of restaurants suspected of violating safety regulations.
Law enforcement has also intensified its efforts. Over the past week, police have detained at least 872 individuals suspected of involvement in restaurant-related irregularities. Furthermore, 20 cases have been filed against those responsible.
The restaurant owner’s association has reacted critically to the sudden crackdown, arguing that authorities previously granted permission for these establishments. They expressed concern that these actions could lead to economic instability and job losses, particularly ahead of Ramadan.
Meanwhile, RAJUK has conducted raids in Uttara and Khilkhet, identifying irregularities such as inadequate fire safety measures and unapproved building modifications.
Besides, Rajuk’s other team, led by executive magistrate Mohammad Kamruzzaman, conducted a drive against the Hotel Regency in Khilkhet and fined five lakh taka for irregularities.
