Demolition notice served on Jamuna Park

Dhaka, Jan 17 (bdnews24.com)—City development authority Rajuk has served notice on the Jamuna Future Park project for violation of the building design and plan, giving them a week to demolish any structures erected beyond the approved six-storey height.

"We've sent a letter today to owners of the Future Park asking them to demolish the unauthorised portion of the project," Rajuk development and planning director Sheikh Abdul Mannan told bdnews24.com on Sunday.

He said Rajuk authorised construction up to six floors for the project located at Basundhara, Baridhara that Jamuna Group claims will be one of the biggest shopping and entertainment complexes in the region.

However, the developers have built the structure up to 10 floors. Jamuna Future Park is scheduled to open at the year-end.

Rajuk chairman Nurul Huda told bdnews24.com that they had decided last week to order demolition of unauthorised buildings in the city.

http://bdnews24.com/details.php?cid=2&id=151226&hb=top

^^
thought I'd be first one to post this crap:P

Anyways, this is what i have to say:

Its too late now for such notice! The whole thing is made and only interior works are going on so demolishing whole 3 floors?? haha never man, I dont think its gna happen anyways! there are already many occupied shops inside and all those have to be destroyed??? all the money will go down the drain then! we r proud of this mall (as it has some kind of record).

And anyways, what the hell was RAJUK doing all these days then? Were they sleeping when the construction went above 6 floors? why didnt they stop them then and why NOW? when its about to open! plus, not just JFP, what about all those other buildings in Dhaka city and overall picture of Dhaka? what was RAJUK doing? I heard tht even the NSU building has extra floors! I think those idiots at RAJUK got a brain transplant thts why!

PS: when i watched the TV report for this, they showed a video where i saw PRADA store in there :)

^^
thought I'd be first one to post this crap:P

Anyways, this is what i have to say:

Its too late now for such notice! The whole thing is made and only interior works are going on so demolishing whole 3 floors?? haha never man, I dont think its gna happen anyways! there are already many occupied shops inside and all those have to be destroyed??? all the money will go down the drain then! we r proud of this mall (as it has some kind of record).

And anyways, what the hell was RAJUK doing all these days then? Were they sleeping when the construction went above 6 floors? why didnt they stop them then and why NOW? when its about to open! plus, not just JFP, what about all those other buildings in Dhaka city and overall picture of Dhaka? what was RAJUK doing? I heard tht even the NSU building has extra floors! I think those idiots at RAJUK got a brain transplant thts why!

PS: when i watched the TV report for this, they showed a video where i saw PRADA store in there :)

Idiots notwithstanding, RAJUK can and will, as they have done in the past (remember Rangs Bhaban?), tear down structures, IF, they take their job seriously and follow the "rule of law". Question remains, whether they (RAJUK) continue to enjoy that kind of clout (authority) as they did during the CTG. At the end of the day, the owners of that mall may prove to be overwhelmingly powerful given their nexus with the political government of the day.

Personally, I would have no qualms about demolishing a structure even if it has been completed and occupied, if it contravenes laws of the land, and neither should RAJUK, if it is an honest and by-the-book entity (far from it!).

All that may happen in the end is some RAJUK officials may strike it rich!

Nothing will happen TIslam bhai. This is just a way to extort money from Babul. The same people aren't in power anymore. Rajuk is one of the most corrupt institutions in Bangladesh. I have personal experience. The way they exploit helpless people is sickening and sad.

Nothing will happen TIslam bhai. This is just a way to extort money from Babul. The same people aren't in power anymore. Rajuk is one of the most corrupt institutions in Bangladesh. I have personal experience. The way they exploit helpless people is sickening and sad.

Well then, I'm not far from the mark, am I? :)

Nothing will happen TIslam bhai. This is just a way to extort money from Babul. The same people aren't in power anymore. Rajuk is one of the most corrupt institutions in Bangladesh. I have personal experience. The way they exploit helpless people is sickening and sad.

exactly, i agree with u 100%

Just wait and see how the permit for the extra four stories is "mysteriously" found in the Rajuk office in the next few days.

If the owner of Jamuna Group is somehow affiliated to BNP instead of present government.. then probably RAJUK is going to go ahead with their notice. Remember how Ekushey TV was shut down during BNP due to some licensing issue?

If the owner of Jamuna Group is somehow affiliated to BNP instead of present government.. then probably RAJUK is going to go ahead with their notice. Remember how Ekushey TV was shut down during BNP due to some licensing issue?

I would hazard a guess that the owners have "made nice" with present regime, otherwise, they wouldn't have been back in the country, the Boshundhara folks at least. Remember, Boshundhara and Jamuna group are now partners.

I would hazard a guess that the owners have "made nice" with present regime, otherwise, they wouldn't have been back in the country, the Boshundhara folks at least. Remember, Boshundhara and Jamuna group are now partners.

My "Choto Mama" works as a manager for Jamuna Group. On this last trip he had mentioned to me that a handsome amount(in the crores) was given to AL big wigs to facilitate Jamuna's business interests. I won't be surprised if some "chor" isn't satisfied with his share and probably wants more and hence the RAJUK notice:ohno:

i think the jamuna group n the govt are having some beef... they first shut down jamuna tv and now after this... sth is going on that we dont know

^^
they cant stop this project man, its much larger than a TV station

Bashundra says to RAJUK...here is 4 crore (1 for each level). RAJUK replies we found the paper it was misplaced under.......all done and dusted and BD has the biggest shopping centre in south east asia.

i think the jamuna group n the govt are having some beef... they first shut down jamuna tv and now after this... sth is going on that we dont know

I think so aswell, without some issues with the government, the RAJUK notice would have never made it to the newspapers. Jamuna group would have worked out all the paperworks behind the scene..

I think so aswell, without some issues with the government, the RAJUK notice would have never made it to the newspapers. Jamuna group would have worked out all the paperworks behind the scene..

You may be right, but it doesn't take much other than money to "create news" that makes it into newspapers in Bangladesh. I know that for a fact.

Could it just be, that AL being just a huge party, some of the players did not get what to wanted and perhaps some didn't get any to begin with. So, it could just as well be a maneuver to get the desired loot?

Bashundra says to RAJUK...here is 4 crore (1 for each level). RAJUK replies we found the paper it was misplaced under.......all done and dusted and BD has the biggest shopping centre in south east asia.

HAHAHA well said :lol: :rofl:

^^
they cant stop this project man, its much larger than a TV station
the govt can do anything, remember the last one put the two netris behind bars even the ameer of the jamat nizami

I think so aswell, without some issues with the government, the RAJUK notice would have never made it to the newspapers. Jamuna group would have worked out all the paperworks behind the scene..
yeap.. boshundhora will also be under beef the land minister openly called them bhumidhorshu and mind you these business folks were very well connected to the bnp regime and so was partex.

on a side note beximco is launching a news channel called the independent with the technical help of ndtv of india

My my, what a web of tangled mess this JFP project coming to. I am sure some of you have read this article in today's Daily Star, but it seems the govt. has all its departments going after Babul Miah.

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=122785

...
The letter said the project authorities started the complex's construction with Rajuk's design approval, but without DMP's clearance.

The letter inquired who will take the responsibility for the huge traffic congestion in the area due to the project, without the DMP clearance.

Jamuna Group Chairman Nurul Islam Babul however claimed the project has a DMP clearance for the vehicular traffic it will generate.

Regarding compliance with the police department's recommendations, Babul said, "Why should I build a road to implement a project?"

"The project is on the wide road of Pragati Sharani," he added.

He alleged that the police department is 'after him' because the department is trying to acquire 450 bighas of land by Khilkhet-Ichhapur Road in the eastern part of the capital for building housings for their officers -- 240 bighas of that land belong to Jamuna Group while 70 bighas belong to Bashundhara Group.

"DMP is after me, as I have refused to give them land for housing," he claimed.

DMP Commissioner Shahidul Haque said they were informed through the deputy commissioner's office of Dhaka civil administration that Babul does not own even an inch of land which the police department acquired.

Shahidul said they asked Babul to sit with the police department to discuss his claims, but despite repeated attempts he did not respond.

The owner of Jamuna got the Rajuk approval through some corrupt officials, flouting the rules, he said....

^^ A sad mess...maybe it would be better just to legalize ghoosh, with pre-set amounts and recipients...then at least there perhaps might not be these nonsensical debacles.

JFP is the one major project within Dhaka that did not come to a halt or major slowdown as a result of the corruption crackdown and global recession. Hope it still comes to fruition...

^^ A sad mess...maybe it would be better just to legalize ghoosh, with pre-set amounts and recipients...then at least there perhaps might not be these nonsensical debacles.

JFP is the one major project within Dhaka that did not come to a halt or major slowdown as a result of the corruption crackdown and global recession. Hope it still comes to fruition...

I think it will (come to fruition). :)

The demolition started today! I didn't think Rajuk would actually go through with it...

The demolition started today! I didn't think Rajuk would actually go through with it...

Just read the news report on this. Don't know what to think other than what a waste of money and resources.

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=22014

^^
Jamuna Group must be on the wrong side of the current political regime. While I agree that it was a waste of energy and resources, I do not particularly feel any sympathy for them. My father used to say, ill gotten money usually becomes squandered.

^^
Jamuna Group must be on the wrong side of the current political regime. While I agree that it was a waste of energy and resources, I do not particularly feel any sympathy for them. My father used to say, ill gotten money usually becomes squandered.


If the governemnt allowed it than the people would have blamed it on Govt corruption. I mean we are incapable of giving credit where due. One of my Economics prof ( although I am not an economics student) told me that given the right amount of money, anything can be bought. The fact that a multi billion dollar man was unable to buy Rajuk or housing minstry is a very positive sign for Bangladesh.

So which parts are they demolishing? the whole thing or the 3 floors? God, the foreign investors are gna be soo pissed!!

If the governemnt allowed it than the people would have blamed it on Govt corruption. I mean we are incapable of giving credit where due. One of my Economics prof ( although I am not an economics student) told me that given the right amount of money, anything can be bought. The fact that a multi billion dollar man was unable to buy Rajuk or housing minstry is a very positive sign for Bangladesh.

Actually credit is to be given when or where credit is due without regard to political/ideological considerations. For example, if this govt. can accomplish even 3 of the main infrastructure projects(from a total of 20+), people should vote for them because they were able to keep their word. Unfortunately prior record of these political parties is so dismal that one can't help but be cynical.

Since I have some relatives working for Jamuna, I know for a fact "ghoosh" is the main reason for the demolition and not some conscious decision on Rajuk's part.

I have been saying all along that Jamuna group has somehow ended up on the wrong side under the current government. Otherwise the news would have never even come to the newspapers let alone actual demolition work..

The news is neither positive or negative from my perspective. This is business as usual from Bangladeshi perspective. This is similat to how Ekushey TV was shut down under BNP. If someone really thinks that RAJUK has somehow come out of corruption and going after big corporations, they are grossly mistaken..

All I can say is that, I am glad that some of you have come down to reality form the high arm chair position. Instead of sugar coating everything and blindly cheer leading the false notion that what a land of opportunity this country has become all of sudden!

Looks like there is some secret clash going on between Jamuna and AL....

^^
yeah lol I guess :S

i said that a long time ago from what i hear in the tea stalls is that the bashundora group is next on line

Ok so when are the rest being demolished?

i said that a long time ago from what i hear in the tea stalls is that the bashundora group is next on line
Question is: why? Do you know as to why these business giants are on the wrong side of the current regime? In the western world no big business makes any permanent alliance with any particular (political) party, because they need to bend in the direction of where the wind blows, in order to survive and continue to profit.

^^ AFAIK Boshundhora is affiliated with BAL.

^^ AFAIK Boshundhora is affiliated with BAL.


They are affiliated with both parties. Lutfuzzaman babar took 20 crore from Bashundhara to save his son from a murder case.

They are affiliated with both parties. Lutfuzzaman babar took 20 crore from Bashundhara to save his son from a murder case.
They are affiliated with both, how come AL is going after them? If you tell me, that AL has nothing to do with it and RAJUK is just "going by the book", I'll puke.

They are affiliated with both, how come AL is going after them? If you tell me, that AL has nothing to do with it and RAJUK is just "going by the book", I'll puke.

If they are not affiliated with AL, than how come the biggest land grabber of the country come back to bangladesh after the election and not face arrest...

Question is: why? Do you know as to why these business giants are on the wrong side of the current regime? In the western world no big business makes any permanent alliance with any particular (political) party, because they need to bend in the direction of where the wind blows, in order to survive and continue to profit.
these few entities grew from a shrimp to a behemoth during the last regime

which in turn came at the expense of the AL supporting business men, its now time for their vengeance!

If they are not affiliated with AL, than how come the biggest land grabber of the country come back to bangladesh after the election and not face arrest...
If AL is there present patron/protector, it makes no sense why they would go after them (via RAJUK). I can only surmise that AL being a large party, there must be certain faction that does not like Jamuna Group folks, or that Jamuna is failing to please this faction.

Although it is sad to see the demolitation of JFP no one should be above the law including the the Jumna Group .......then again this is BD.

It's all about politics and not much about zoning. The group behind this development are big BNP boosters. RAJUK is doing what their new political bosses want.

On a recent visit to Dhaka I was surprised to see so many high rise buildings coming up. However a Architect friend commented that 1 earth quake and most of these high rises will fall down.

It's all about politics and not much about zoning. The group behind this development are big BNP boosters. RAJUK is doing what their new political bosses want.

On a recent visit to Dhaka I was surprised to see so many high rise buildings coming up. However a Architect friend commented that 1 earth quake and most of these high rises will fall down.
That's what many are afraid of, worried about. But then life must go on. I hope it never happens in my lifetime or my child's.

Although it is sad to see the demolitation of JFP no one should be above the law including the the Jumna Group .......then again this is BD.
beer51: Some people are above the law, in Bangladesh! The comical thing (to me at least) is though that these same folks who are above the law, end up getting the short end of the stick of the law, at some point or another.

The universal truth about "the law" seems to be that it is always on the side of the people with money. Give or take a few rare exceptions.

That's what many are afraid of, worried about. But then life must go on. I hope it never happens in my lifetime or my child's.

I am really scared of the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the recent 4.3 earth shaker in northwestern Illinois was too close for comfort.

Coming back to BD, I don't think we have to wait for earthquakes to see disasters in the mushrooming skyscrapers and multiplexes. Just today there was a fire in Japan Garden City which killed 7 people including 3 kids. Non existing or non functioning fire extinguishers combined with difficulty of reaching a location by fire departments, will unfortunately become common news material as the building binge progresses.

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=126125

I am really scared of the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the recent 4.3 earth shaker in northwestern Illinois was too close for comfort.

Coming back to BD, I don't think we have to wait for earthquakes to see disasters in the mushrooming skyscrapers and multiplexes. Just today there was a fire in Japan Garden City which killed 7 people including 3 kids. Non existing or non functioning fire extinguishers combined with difficulty of reaching a location by fire departments, will unfortunately become common news material as the building binge progresses.

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=126125
Whoa! I have a sister-in-law (newly weds) who lives in Japan Garden City! I have brought up this issue with many folks in Dhaka, many a times, but nobody seems to care or worry about it.

The least RAJUK could do is institute a residential (large complex) building code with mandatory fire suppression equipment. In fact, if it isn't cost prohibitive they should mandate a sprinkler system in multi-dwellings, just like they have here in most states for apartment and condominium buildings.

i am surprised no rajuk official was charged or arrested with such a development

i am sure the building took time to build where were these officers on duty? couldnt they see that a building who is supposed to be 6 stories suddenly growing up to 10 stories

this is clear proof of political vendetta!

this is clear proof of political vendetta!

Ofcourse... From a personal perspective I am actually a bit disappointed, was really looking forward to the mall opening before the Cricket World cup.

I think over 80% of all the structures in Dhaka are illegal in some way or other, if we go by the books.

Ofcourse... From a personal perspective I am actually a bit disappointed, was really looking forward to the mall opening before the Cricket World cup.

I think over 80% of all the structures in Dhaka are illegal in some way or other, if we go by the books.
going by the books more then 95% would be... word on the street is that this is being used as a symbolic gesture to other businessmen of the country who apparently became "angur fule taal gach" in the last 5 years! and some other very strong political motivation which as of now is unknown!

another 12 or so tv channels have been given the go a head to start all back by top notch AL people, those business which were directly connected with the bnp regeime are going to have a real bad time now, i wouldnt be surprised if they are able to break bnp into pieces

going by the books more then 95% would be...
:lol:Ain't that the truth!
word on the street is that this is being used as a symbolic gesture to other businessmen of the country who apparently became "angur fule taal gach" in the last 5 years!
And they have problem with that? Why? Because they didn't get their "cut" as they were out of office?
and some other very strong political motivation which as of now is unknown!
Do let us know when you find out.


another 12 or so tv channels have been given the go a head to start all back by top notch AL people, those business which were directly connected with the bnp regeime are going to have a real bad time now, i wouldnt be surprised if they are able to break bnp into pieces
While anything is possible, I wouldn't count on it. BNP may certainly be down but not out. Remember, both AL and BNP know how to play dirty.

:lol:Ain't that the truth!

And they have problem with that? Why? Because they didn't get their "cut" as they were out of office?

Do let us know when you find out.


While anything is possible, I wouldn't count on it. BNP may certainly be down but not out. Remember, both AL and BNP know how to play dirty.
here is the catch bhai AL is smarter in dirty politics and AL has more kormis who work from their heart rather than for money, if i were AL now i would definitely exploit the current rift in bd, well i wouldnt need to either did you see the division in the bnp

you see five years from now people will be a little bit more away which might make things a little bit difficult

if al can keep prices of essential commodities and basically do nothing there is a high chance they might be coming back

So whats the latest on JFP?

So whats the latest on JFP?

Rajuk demolishes 7th floor's walls of Jamuna Future Park

http://www.thedailystar.net/latest_photo/2010/02/23/2010-02-23__Jamuna.jpg
File photo
Star Online ReportRajdhani Unnyan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) on Tuesday knocked down the walls of seventh floor of Jamuna Future Park Shopping Complex.


The Rajuk started its manual demolition at noon with 50 day-labourers for the second day after dismissal of an appeal petition by Jamuna Builders Ltd with the Supreme Court on February 11.


The demolition team, led by executive magistrate Rokon-ud-Doula, started the drive on the seventh floor of the 10-storey shopping complex sparing the pillars and roofs for the time being.


"We demolished walls of eighth floor of the building on February 22 and the highest floor on February 18," he said.

"We will continue demolition of the walls till Thursday and an especial team will be formed to demolish the pillars and rooms of the complex later," he said.


Three platoons of police and officials concerned of Rajuk took part in the drive.


Meanwhile, the High Court on February 17 rejected a writ petition for stay on the demolition till the disposal of an appeal submitted by Jamuna Builders Ltd to Rajuk's appellate authorities.


Jamuna Builders filed the appeal on February 3 against a Rajuk notice issued to them on January 13.


The first served Jamuna Builders a notice in 2002 against unauthorised construction of the floors violating the original design. In response, Jamuna initiated a legal battle against Rajuk action, said Rokon.


On January 17, Jamuna Builders filed a writ petition with the HC challenging legality of the notice. The HC summarily rejected the petition on February 3.


The next day Rajuk embarked on destroying the exterior glass panels of the floors leaving all the other parts unharmed.


The drive halted as Jamuna Builders filed a petition with the SC against the HC order. The SC dismissed the petition on February 11 upholding the order.

http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=22362

Jamuna Group's shareholder and a lawmaker told parliament recently that, some influential people in the government are annoyed at her business conglomerate as the vernacular daily owned by Jamuna Group published few reports on corruption in the housing ministry. She sought help from the prime minister is saving her business enterprises from severe financial loss, which she feared to face due to adverse attitude of influential figures in the present government.

But, on Thursday, February 4 2010, bulldozers of Rajdhani Unnayan Kartipakkha reached the huge structures of Jamuna Future Park and started demolishing a few floors of the building.

Earlier, government snatched the transmission license of the television channel owned by the conglomerate and shut off its transmission.

http://www.weeklyblitz.net/495/nothing-changed-in-bangladesh


^^ We all knew that :ohno:

^^ We all knew that :ohno:
Bangladesh is like a continuously running Indian soap opera. Folks in the Jamuna Group ought to have remembered that "people in glass houses ought not to throw stones". I wonder whether the structural integrity is impacted when such type operation is undertaken. I think that mall isn't going to see the light of day.

Bangladesh is like a continuously running Indian soap opera. Folks in the Jamuna Group ought to have remembered that "people in glass house ought not to throw stones". I wonder whether the structural integrity is impacted when such type operation is undertaken. I think that mall isn't going to see the light of day.

After this..I think even business conglomerates would be scared to report corruption but u are right,people in glass houses shouldn't be throwing stones,lol.I Hope some amount of money will save jamuna mall...after all..this is bd,anything can happen

Bangladesh is like a continuously running Indian soap opera. Folks in the Jamuna Group ought to have remembered that "people in glass houses ought not to throw stones". I wonder whether the structural integrity is impacted when such type operation is undertaken. I think that mall isn't going to see the light of day.

Perhaps if they renamed it 'Bangabondhu Mall'... ;-)

After this..I think even business conglomerates would be scared to report corruption but u are right,people in glass houses shouldn't be throwing stones,lol.I Hope some amount of money will save jamuna mall...after all..this is bd,anything can happen

Unless Jamuna Group is prudent enough to take a U turn in their political affiliation and start praising BAL in their newspapers and other public announcements,I don't see much prospect for JFP like Towhid bhai. But business people in BD are smart and I am sure they are going to do the "adjustment" needed to come in the good eyes of BAL ministers and JFP will be opened to public by this year..

I really hope JFP and the new 5 star Hotel in Chittagong gets completed before the Cricket World cup in Feb 2011, Bangladesh is going to get lot of tourists and media attention during that time, and it's the best time to present the positives.

Perhaps if they renamed it 'Bangabondhu Mall'... ;-)

I think it would be a better idea to call everything "Rahman", like "Rahman Airport", "Rahman Station" and "Rahman Shetu"- that way both parties would be happy :yes:

^^^^
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA LMAO goood one bro ;)

I think it would be a better idea to call everything "Rahman", like "Rahman Airport", "Rahman Station" and "Rahman Shetu"- that way both parties would be happy :yes:

Very good idea...ami jantam notun projonmer chelerai desh k bache te parbe..and this is what u hav proven again today:lol:

^^ We all knew that :ohno:
the weeklyblitz is the biggest anti bangladesh m!@#$%% out there~

salauddin soaib sth and his buddy sunita paul

Very good idea...ami jantam notun projonmer chelerai desh k bache te parbe..and this is what u hav proven again today:lol:
uncle apni ki purano projonmer? :P

Unless Jamuna Group is prudent enough to take a U turn in their political affiliation and start praising BAL in their newspapers and other public announcements,I don't see much prospect for JFP like Towhid bhai. But business people in BD are smart and I am sure they are going to do the "adjustment" needed to come in the good eyes of BAL ministers and JFP will be opened to public by this year..

I really hope JFP and the new 5 star Hotel in Chittagong gets completed before the Cricket World cup in Feb 2011, Bangladesh is going to get lot of tourists and media attention during that time, and it's the best time to present the positives.
i was there the other day the breaking has stopped!

i was there the other day the breaking has stopped!

U mean now they are not breaking it anymore?

Unless Jamuna Group is prudent enough to take a U turn in their political affiliation and start praising BAL in their newspapers and other public announcements
The operative word here is "prudent". Time will answer whether prudence will triumph over emotion.
But business people in BD are smart and I am sure they are going to do the "adjustment" needed to come in the good eyes of BAL ministers and JFP will be opened to public by this year..
They are perhaps "street smart" but not "wise" enough. The elemental problem I see in Bangladesh business houses that are the movers and shakers, is that most of them are a) not a true "corporate" entity rather owned by one person or a family, and b) most of these businessmen are actually politicians turned businessmen and that they are where they are today, owing to activate patronization of one political party or another, while they were in power. Therefore, political affiliation run deep. Had there been some truly large independent business entities that predates the independence of Bangladesh, in the likes of Birla, Godrej, Tata, the business climate would have been impervious (immune) to all the political turbulence.

I really hope JFP and the new 5 star Hotel in Chittagong gets completed before the Cricket World cup in Feb 2011, Bangladesh is going to get lot of tourists and media attention during that time, and it's the best time to present the positives.
You, and many of us care and think about what is good for the country and its image, question is, do the people who run the show, care? If they did, pettiness and vindictiveness would not have been openly on display.

The operative word here is "prudent". Time will answer whether prudence will triumph over emotion.

They are perhaps "street smart" but not "wise" enough. The elemental problem I see in Bangladesh business houses that are the movers and shakers, is that most of them are a) not a true "corporate" entity rather owned by one person or a family, and b) most of these businessmen are actually politicians turned businessmen and that they are where they are today, owing to activate patronization of one political party or another, while they were in power. Therefore, political affiliation run deep. Had there been some truly large independent business entities that predates the independence of Bangladesh, in the likes of Birla, Godrej, Tata, the business climate would have been impervious (immune) to all the political turbulence.

You, and many of us care and think about what is good for the country and its image, question is, do the people who run the show, care? If they did, pettiness and vindictiveness would not have been openly on display.
:clap: very nicely put

I think it would be a better idea to call everything "Rahman", like "Rahman Airport", "Rahman Station" and "Rahman Shetu"- that way both parties would be happy :yes:

Wow, best idea I have heard in a good while! If only our politicians actually new the art of statesmanship and compromise, that might actually have been a reasonable solution to this constant flip-flopping of names.

That's unbelievable. That thing is closed to finished now they are demolishing its top. This is potentially disastrous to Bangladesh as a whole. Who would invest in mega projects if the govt can act with such impunity.
You know what they (the government) would say, don't you? That they are upholding the rule of law!

That's unbelievable. That thing is closed to finished now they are demolishing its top. This is potentially disastrous to Bangladesh as a whole. Who would invest in mega projects if the govt can act with such impunity.

^^
second tht :)

I hope JFP along with the two 5 star hotels in Chittagong opens before 2011 WC, it would be a great time to publicize Bangladesh's positive side..

Anybody has recent pics of the JFP site?

I hope JFP along with the two 5 star hotels in Chittagong opens before 2011 WC, it would be a great time to publicize Bangladesh's positive side..

Anybody has recent pics of the JFP site?

Actually there won't be any 5 star hotel in Chittagong before 2011 WC. Because A K Khan group is planning to build a 5 star hotel for long time ( If I am not mistaken, this group decided to make a 5 star hotel at early 80's, and still this is in planning process). Bangladesh Army also planning to build a 5 star hotel in Chittagong, I think that will take another 4/5 years to complete it (because they didn't start the construction yet), I hope this one will be built because they are more sincere. Beside this, some other groups show some interest to invest in hotel business in port city, however I believe this is not a realistic prediction that some of them will start construction before 2011 WC.

Actually there won't be any 5 star hotel in Chittagong before 2011 WC. Because A K Khan group is planning to build a 5 star hotel for long time ( If I am not mistaken, this group decided to make a 5 star hotel at early 80's, and still this is in planning process). Bangladesh Army also planning to build a 5 star hotel in Chittagong, I think that will take another 4/5 years to complete it (because they didn't start the construction yet), I hope this one will be built because they are more sincere. Beside this, some other groups show some interest to invest in hotel business in port city, however I believe this is not a realistic prediction that some of them will start construction before 2011 WC.
Perhaps it is unrealistic to expect a brand new hotel to be completed prior to the commencement of the World Cup Cricket, if construction is yet to begin however, it is also plausible that Mr. Noor Ali (of the Unique Group) may succeed where others have failed?

RAJUK should be demolished it's nothing but a hinderance to development. A******s running it sit on their laurels and make stupid comments like 'dangerously high levels and 'must be demolished' or 'illegally built'
All I can say is RAJUK has done nothing to make Dhaka a well planned city. Any new project takes decades for authorisation.
Hire mercenaries and destroy the RAJUK building i'd say.

^^
hahaha i agree fully with u bro :lol:

Actually there won't be any 5 star hotel in Chittagong before 2011 WC. Because A K Khan group is planning to build a 5 star hotel for long time ( If I am not mistaken, this group decided to make a 5 star hotel at early 80's, and still this is in planning process). Bangladesh Army also planning to build a 5 star hotel in Chittagong, I think that will take another 4/5 years to complete it (because they didn't start the construction yet), I hope this one will be built because they are more sincere. Beside this, some other groups show some interest to invest in hotel business in port city, however I believe this is not a realistic prediction that some of them will start construction before 2011 WC.

I hate to be so skeptical, but considering our vast experience of seeing off projects being finished here, I don't think anything's happening by the 2011 WC. But to clarify, Shena Kalyan Trust is getting Radisson to come to Chittagong right? And AK Khan Group was in talks with Dusit Thain and now a Westin. Too many Radissons and Westins in Bangladesh already!

No one has any information on the hotel at Jamuna Future Park right? They've been quite hush about it.

I hate to be so skeptical, but considering our vast experience of seeing off projects being finished here, I don't think anything's happening by the 2011 WC. But to clarify, Shena Kalyan Trust is getting Radisson to come to Chittagong right? And AK Khan Group was in talks with Dusit Thain and now a Westin. Too many Radissons and Westins in Bangladesh already!

It would be really sad if BD fails to use the Cricket World cup as an event to show the positive side of the country. I don't think any other event can bring such focus on Bangladesh in the next 10-20 years..

Infact even projects like Dhaka- Chittagong expressway,Dhaka Eastern Bypass road should have been emphasized in light of the WC.The private sector projects like the Chittagong Hotels and Jamuna Future Park should be encouraged through special tax breaks if completed before the Worldcup.

Folks in Dhaka....can u please give us a report on wheather Jamuna Future Park is still being partially demolished or if that demolition work has in reality stopped?

Would really appreciate info on the latest going on with this project.

^^
Mirza, I already blew it up before the govt does anything worse to it :P

Its just a tiny part (5 %) of JFP . Definitely Rajuk has fault for not having a look at the matter in all these years and suddenly decided to demolish it but they have recently selected more than 500 illegally build structures to demolish . Everyday they are demolishing illegal structures . JFP's illegal part is among them. BGMEA bhaban will be demolished completely but not now . Rajuk may go to court for this matter like they did for Rangs Bhaban .BGMEA is backed by powerful business giants in BD. It may be difficult to demolish it due to political influences but one day its definitely going to be demolished completely like Rangs Bhaban. Its totally harming hatirjheel project & also according to Rajuk they didn't permit BGMEA to built it over there . It was built completely illegally.

Its just a tiny part (5 %) of JFP . Definitely Rajuk has fault for not having a look at the matter in all these years and suddenly decided to demolish it but they have recently selected more than 500 illegally build structures to demolish . Everyday they are demolishing illegal structures . JFP's illegal part is among them. BGMEA bhaban will be demolished completely but not now . Rajuk may go to court for this matter like they did for Rangs Bhaban .BGMEA is backed by powerful business giants in BD. It may be difficult to demolish it due to political influences but one day its definitely going to be demolished completely like Rangs Bhaban. Its totally harming hatirjheel project & also according to Rajuk they didn't permit BGMEA to built it over there . It was built completely illegally.

It can most definitely affect the Hatirjheel project, but there is no way they can allow to tear down the BGMEA building. Seriously I could possibly think of any other building but not this one and for obvious reasons.

It can most definitely affect the Hatirjheel project, but there is no way they can allow to tear down the BGMEA building. Seriously I could possibly think of any other building but not this one and for obvious reasons.
What is the obvious reason, because it belongs to BGMEA?

What is the obvious reason, because it belongs to BGMEA?

The BGMEA is driving this country's exports and along with it, our rapidly growing foreign currency earnings. Very strong political influence with that.

^^ Besides which, the building being located there is not BGMEA's fault...the government allowed them to build there. In fact I am favor of allowing completion of the planned expansion of Sonargaon which...at least to my non-engineering mind...does not seem to significantly impact the water channel. This together with a thorough renovation could elevate the hotel to a world class facility.

The BGMEA is driving this country's exports and along with it, our rapidly growing foreign currency earnings. Very strong political influence with that.
The foregoing reasons are all the wrong reasons, if it was indeed illegally built. Just proves, that might is right, time and time again, in Bangladesh.

While I do not advocate demolition, they ought to be fined a huge sum, if proven guilty in a court of law.

The foregoing reasons are all the wrong reasons, if it was indeed illegally built. Just proves, that might is right, time and time again, in Bangladesh.

While I do not advocate demolition, they ought to be fined a huge sum, if proven guilty in a court of law.

I agree with Towhid bhai on this....Bangladeshi governments always resort to extreme measures---sometimes they dont even fine...and sometimes they start demolishing causing great economic losses.

The foregoing reasons are all the wrong reasons, if it was indeed illegally built. Just proves, that might is right, time and time again, in Bangladesh.

While I do not advocate demolition, they ought to be fined a huge sum, if proven guilty in a court of law.

The question is...who committed the illegality...BGMEA, or the government? I would hold the position that if the government issued a permit, then the illegal act was that of issuing the permit, not of constructing the building. I don't know the details of the case, but if the government issued the permit, then I would tear down the building only if it could be established that the waterway was significantly impacted by its presence. Even if this was done, then BGMEA should be compensated if in fact a permit was issued. Otherwise, there should be no fines...unless the government fines itself. Now, if BGMEA constructed the building without government consent, then that would be different.

The question is...who committed the illegality...BGMEA, or the government? I would hold the position that if the government issued a permit, then the illegal act was that of issuing the permit, not of constructing the building. I don't know the details of the case, but if the government issued the permit, then I would tear down the building only if it could be established that the waterway was significantly impacted by its presence. Even if this was done, then BGMEA should be compensated if in fact a permit was issued. Otherwise, there should be no fines...unless the government fines itself. Now, if BGMEA constructed the building without government consent, then that would be different.
I agree, but we will never find out the truth.

Like Mirza said, every government in Bangladesh always adopt extreme measures and that is owing to the deep seated animosity between the political rivals, I am sure. If they (GoB) can offer to make black money white, I would think a fine would be for more "constructive" (didn't realize the pun).