Project taken for ‘urban redevelopment’ of Old Dhaka: Minister

UNB, DHAKA: Housing and Public Works Minister SM Rezaul Karim on Monday said Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) has taken a project for ‘urban redevelopment’, aiming to resolve the existing civic problems of Old Dhaka.

In reply to a tabled question from ruling Awami League MP M Abdul Latif, the minister also informed the House that seven possible places have been identified primarily at Islambugh, Chalkbazar, Moulvibazar, Bangshal, Hajaribagh, Kamrangirchar and Lalbagh for taking project for urban redevelopment.

“A process to formulate terms of reference for conducting a study in this regard is underway,” Rezaul Karim said.

He said coordinating works with foreign organisations for technical and financial assistance is going on in this regard as the concept of urban redevelopment is new in Bangladesh.

The minister also said the concept and implementation strategy of urban redevelopment has been incorporated in the detailed area plan (2016-35) of Rajuk.

In reply to a query from AL MP Mostaq Ahmed Robi, the Housing Minister said the National Housing Authority is working sincerely as part of ensuring housing for low-income people across the country.

While replying to a query from AL MP Momtaz Begum, the minister said the government is determined to resolve various problems of real estate sector as Rajuk, Chattogram Unnayan Kartripakkha, National Housing Authority, Rajshahi Unnayan Kartripakkha, Khulna Unnayan Kartripakkha and Cox’s Bazar Unnayan Kartripakkha are working relentlessly in this regard.

As part of formulating a mega plan on planned real estate, the Housing Minister said, Rajuk has sent the draft of 20-year long (2016-2035) Dhaka structural Plan for the final approval of the ministry.