The government has cleared the draft of the Rajuk Ordinance 2025, with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus directing the authorities to explore the creation of a nationwide body that would independently approve all buildings and construction works in Bangladesh.
The Council of Advisers approved the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) Ordinance 2025 at a meeting held at the Chief Adviser’s Office on Thursday.
Briefing the media at the Foreign Service Academy, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said the chief adviser had instructed the Housing and Public Works Ministry to assess whether a separate authority should be formed, as Rajuk’s mandate currently covers only specific areas within its jurisdiction.
While discussing the proposed ordinance, Yunus expressed deep concern over unsafe construction practices now visible not only in cities but also in rural areas. He noted that multi-storey structures are being erected without assurance that they comply with the Bangladesh National Building Code — despite the country’s vulnerability to earthquakes and fire hazards.
The press secretary said the Council of Advisers stressed strict enforcement of construction rules and fire safety requirements for all buildings nationwide.
Explaining the rationale for the new ordinance, Shafiqul said the old Rajuk law no longer aligns with the authority’s expanding responsibilities and the rapid growth of its operational areas.
The proposed law introduces new mechanisms for redevelopment, land readjustment and the protection of playgrounds, wetlands and natural water bodies. One significant provision states that redevelopment may proceed if 60% of landowners consent.
At the meeting, the chief adviser also instructed that no Union Parishad within Rajuk’s designated area may issue building approvals under any circumstances.
The ordinance outlines regulations for building construction, excavation of water bodies, filling of low-lying land, preventing obstruction of natural water flow and prohibiting the reclassification of parks, playgrounds and water bodies.
It further introduces penalties for constructing buildings that violate approved designs, and provides for the removal of unsafe or unauthorised structures.
The draft law also bars Rajuk’s chairman, members and employees from having any interest or involvement in contracts connected to Rajuk’s activities.
