Dhaka Authorities Launch Major Crackdown on Illegal Construction in Old City
Dhaka, Bangladesh – In a decisive move to address long-standing urban planning violations, the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has initiated a large-scale demolition drive targeting illegal structures in the historic old quarter of the capital. The operation, which began early Monday, focuses on buildings erected without approved plans along key thoroughfares and in densely populated neighborhoods.
DSCC officials confirmed that at least 15 unauthorized multi-story buildings and numerous encroachments on public land are being dismantled in areas including Sutrapur, Wari, and Gendaria. Executive Engineer Md. Kamrul Hasan stated, “These structures violate the building code and pose serious safety risks, especially during fire or earthquake. We are following a court order and a detailed survey conducted over the past three months.”
The crackdown has drawn mixed reactions. Many residents and shop owners affected by the demolitions expressed frustration, claiming they were not given sufficient notice. “My shop has been here for 20 years. Now I have nowhere to go,” said Abdul Karim, a hardware store owner in Gendaria. Others, however, welcomed the move, citing improved ventilation and reduced traffic congestion in narrow lanes.
Urban experts have long warned that unplanned construction in Dhaka exacerbates flooding, blocks emergency vehicle access, and contributes to the city’s notorious traffic jams. The DSCC says the drive will continue for several weeks, with plans to clear major bottlenecks and reclaim footpaths. Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh emphasized that no political pressure would deter the operation, stating, “We are committed to making Dhaka a livable city. The law will apply to everyone equally.”
Meanwhile, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police have deployed additional officers to prevent any potential unrest. The crackdown comes ahead of the monsoon season, when illegal structures often collapse or cause waterlogging. Environmentalists note that reclaiming public spaces could also help improve drainage and reduce water stagnation.
On the international front, the Dhaka news has caught the attention of urban planners in other South Asian capitals facing similar challenges. The World Bank, which has funded several urban resilience projects in Bangladesh, observed the operation as a case study in enforcement of building regulations. A spokesperson for the bank’s Dhaka office commented, “This initiative, if sustained, could set a precedent for other rapidly growing cities in the region.”
However, concerns remain about the displacement of low-income families and small businesses. The DSCC has promised to provide alternative sites for some affected vendors, but details remain sketchy. Rights groups have urged the authorities to ensure due process and compensation where applicable.
As the demolition crews continue their work, the city’s skyline is gradually shifting. For many Dhaka residents, this crackdown represents both a disruption and a long-overdue step toward order. Whether it will lead to lasting change or merely temporary relief remains to be seen. The coming weeks will test the resolve of the city corporation and the patience of its millions of inhabitants.