Dhaka South City Corpn cuts off utility lines to warehouses

Dhaka, Feb 28 – Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) authorities in separate drive cut off utility lines of 23 chemical warehouse and factories of Islambagh and Shahidnagar area of old Dhaka yesterday in the aftermath of deadly Chawkbazar fire that claimed 69 lives.
The month-long drive began from yesterday in Shahidnagar and Islambagh areas from around 11:30 am.
In Islambagh, the authorities conducted drive in seven houses where warehouse and factories of raw materials was found in underground.
During the drive no owner of factories and houses were found.
The drive led by Brigadier General Sharif Ahmed Khan, Chief Health officers of DSCC.
“A meeting was held in Ministry of Industry where the decision was taken. Two places were set up for shifting those chemicals. Earlier, on February 25 the DSCC announced through mike to shift chemical
warehouse by own initiatives,” said Sharif Ahmed.
“According to pre-scheduled the task force, which consists of different organizations started the operation from today (Tuesday) morning. We found seven buildings where chemicals were stored and we cut off the water, gas and electricity line in those buildings,’ also added he.
“We did not find any building or warehouse owners but we massaged them to clear the warehouse in next Sunday (March 3) otherwise legal action will be taken,” mentioned the Brigadier General.
Meanwhile, local businessmen and residents tried to protest against the raids and hinder it but the law enforcers were able to control the situation.
Abu Taleb, President of Bangladesh Plastic Packaging Roll Association termed the raid as invalid while talking to the media on the spot.
“The raids aren’t valid. Because neither flammable substances nor the 29 listed chemicals are present here,” he said.
In Shahidnagar Gas, power and water lines to 15 chemical warehouses and factories were cut yesterday.
Air Commodore Jahid Hossain, chief of waste management of DSCC led the drive.
Earlier On February 20 fire broke out which could not indefinite yet but assumed as it was originated from chemical warehouse at Haji Wahed Mension in Chawkbazar. – Staff Reporter