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Letters to the Editor

Save our heritage sites

May 14, 2022 00:00:00


It is a matter of pride that Bangladesh has seen significant economic development in the recent past. It is, however, disappointing that, in the midst of this rush for development, many historical and heritage sites have not been given due importance. Instead, more often than not, they were demolished to make space either for multi-storied complexes, high-rise apartments simply for economic gain. Such an incident has recently happened to Old Dhaka's Ruplal House. The building is one of the 74 heritage sites enlisted by the government gazette. As per rules, raising new buildings within the boundaries of these recognised structures is illegal. Yet a Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) official after paying several visits reported that there was no heritage site at the spot. Rajuk also gave permission for constructing a six-storey building within the boundary of Ruplal House premises. The first two storeys have already been fully constructed.

It is important to know that because of archaeological heritage sites we can know of the rich history of our motherland. The Moghuls and the British, among others, built many structures on this land during different time periods. If we cannot save those structures, we will erase a vital part of our history. Thus, it must not be allowed. It is of utmost necessity for the authorities to preserve whatever little of the heritage sites that are there today, as they have indeed stood the test of time but are in dire conditions due to our negligence.

Badsha Faysal,

Jurain, Dhaka,

[email protected]


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