Dhaka at risk as old buildings flout codes

Environmental Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has stated that approximately ninety percent of older structures in Dhaka were built without following construction codes, creating severe vulnerability to earthquakes. She made these remarks during a press interaction in Mirpur, describing recent tremors as a serious warning for the nation.

She clarified that while many new constructions adhere to regulations, the vast majority of the city’s older buildings possess significant violations according to RAJUK data. Hasan stressed that these structures urgently require engineering assessments and risk mitigation plans.

Although she acknowledged that population density makes high-rise construction necessary, she insisted it should not be pursued at the expense of the environment. The adviser also cautioned against destructive development practices such as filling water bodies and cutting hills.