Multi-storey buildings rising against roads in Mymensingh, building code not being followed

Mymensingh city is growing by the day. Its population is rising and new multi-storey, residential and commercial buildings are going up. But while the number and height of buildings have increased, the width of the roads has not grown in proportion. As a result, unplanned urbanisation, narrow roads, traffic congestion and public suffering are becoming more acute by the day.

In particular, there are allegations that the prescribed policies and the building construction rules (building code) are not being properly followed in building construction.

Visits on the ground show multi-storey buildings constructed beside narrow roads in many places. In some places, adequate space has not been kept around buildings during construction. Some buildings are alleged to have been built right against the road, and in some cases there are allegations of buildings being constructed by occupying government roads and land. As a result, the already narrow roads are being squeezed further.

According to data published by the city authority, in 2018 there were 44,571 buildings of one to six storeys in Mymensingh city. By September 2024, that number had risen to 48,228. Over the same period, the number of buildings taller than seven storeys rose from 270 to 541. In other words, the trend of building construction in the city has increased markedly within a few years.

Local residents allege that although approved designs are supposed to be followed during construction, in many cases they are not. Some are altering the approved design to increase the size of their buildings. Again, because the prescribed distance is not kept between adjacent buildings, one building is almost merging with another. This is disrupting natural light and air flow and raising concerns over fire safety and emergency rescue operations.

The construction of multi-storey buildings beside narrow roads in different parts of the city is also making vehicle movement difficult. In places, construction materials kept on the road are obstructing pedestrians and vehicles. The lack of adequate space in front of buildings is also creating extra pressure for car parking, making traffic jams on important roads even longer.

According to experts, unplanned building construction not only spoils the city's beauty but also makes it harder to deal with major disasters in future. In an earthquake, fire or other emergency, rescue work could be hampered if roads are narrow and there is not enough space between buildings. Soil testing before construction, following the approved design, keeping necessary open space and ensuring fire safety measures are therefore extremely important.

The Mymensingh City Corporation, meanwhile, has said action is being taken as necessary in cases where buildings are constructed in deviation from the approved design. The town planning department has also said irregular construction work is being monitored.