In a recent development, the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) took action to demolish a rooftop restaurant and another establishment located at the Gawsia Twin Peak building on Dhanmondi’s Satmasjid Road in the capital city.
Rajuk Executive Magistrate Tazina Sarwar issued the demolition order on Monday afternoon, targeting the structures found in violation of building regulations.
Among the structures demolished, one was identified as the Retro Live Kitchen restaurant, while the other was an establishment under construction.
According to Rajuk officials, the building was initially approved for commercial purposes under category F-1. However, the operation of a restaurant necessitated an F-2 approval, which the building lacked.
Moreover, Rajuk had not granted approval for any plans indicating the presence of establishments on the building's rooftop.
Alamgir Hossain, the service manager of the Gawsia Twin Peak Building, confirmed Rajuk's visit to the premises on Sunday, during which all restaurants were ordered to cease operations.
In response to recent safety concerns following a tragic incident, the police have issued notices to all restaurants, requesting their authorities to report to the police station within three days with their licenses for verification.
This action follows a devastating fire that claimed the lives of at least 46 people and left over 20 others severely injured. The fire, which broke out on Thursday night, led to a dramatic rescue operation by firefighters, who managed to save 70 individuals, including 42 found unconscious.
The rapid spread of the fire was attributed to the presence of gas cylinders on several floors within restaurant kitchens. Many occupants faced difficulties evacuating the building due to smoke-filled staircases, resulting in fatalities from burns, suffocation, or attempts to jump to safety.
Comment: