Housing minister terms Banani fire murder

Housing minister terms Banani fire murder

Prothom Alo English Desk | Mar 29, 2019

Housing and public works minister SM Rezaul Karim visits the fire-hit FR Tower in Banani of Dhaka on Friday. Photo: UNBHousing and public works minister SM Rezaul Karim on Friday termed the Banani fire a killing incident and promised to take stern action against those responsible for it, no matter how influential they may be, reports UNB.

“This is not an accident, this is murder. No one of those responsible for such a cruel carnage will be spared. Tough action will be taken against them, no matter how much powerful they are,” he said.

Talking to newsmen after visiting FR Tower which had been ablaze, the minister said, “The prime minister has directed us not to spare anyone responsible for the incident. Our ministry has also decided to take stern action against them.”

He said a number of probe bodies have been formed to look into the Banani fire incident and punitive action will be taken against those responsible as per the existing law based on reports of the probe committees.

SM Rezaul Karim said the FR Tower was built violating rules. “Permission was given only for an 18-storey building, but a 22-story building was constructed illegally.”

In reply to a question, the minister said they will also take action if any government official is found involved in the illegal construction of the building.

Local government and rural development minister Md Tajul Islam and Dhaka North City Corporation mayor Md Atiqul Islam also visited the spot.