Online Report : At least 263 high-rise buildings have been illegally constructed over the past decade within ‘no-fly zone’ surrounding Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and Tejgaon Old Airport, according to Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq stated that these buildings were erected without necessary approvals, posing significant risks to aviation safety.

“Civil Aviation does not have the authority to demolish these structures,” he said. “We have formally informed RAJUK multiple times and it is now their responsibility to take appropriate action.”

The issue has gained renewed attention following a recent jet crash involving the Milestone School building near Dhaka airport.

However, Siddiq clarified that there are no illegal high-rises in that particular area. “The height limit in that zone is 150 feet and the existing buildings are all within that limit, with none exceeding 135 feet,” he added.

On the topic of the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Siddiq mentioned that while the inauguration date is yet to be confirmed, construction is progressing rapidly.

Discussions are currently underway with a Japanese consortium regarding its operational management. “Once both sides reach an agreement, a formal contract will be signed,” he said.