TIB Expresses Deep Concern Over Alleged Land Grabbing Attempt Involving Dhaka WASA Property in Gulshan

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has expressed deep concern over a move to construct a residential building on 114 katha of land owned by the Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (WASA) in Gulshan, describing the process as a scheme that facilitates land grabbing. The anti-corruption watchdog criticized the agency for entertaining a proposal from a private real estate firm without adhering to standard legal and administrative procedures.

In a statement issued Thursday, TIB called for the immediate cancellation of the initiative, alleging that the effort to allocate the land—originally leased from the Capital Development Authority (RAJUK)—to a company linked to a politically influential figure constitutes a corrupt collaboration. The organization asserted that the proposal should have been rejected outright upon receipt due to its irregular and unethical nature.

TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman emphasized that as a public institution, WASA’s assets belong to the people. He noted that any commercial utilization of such property must be conducted through a transparent, open, and participatory competitive bidding process. He argued that moving forward with a single proposal from a politically connected entity represents a clear violation of established legal and policy frameworks.

Addressing the internal handling of the project, Iftekharuzzaman stated that the creation of a committee to consider the proposal serves as a superficial cover for a land-grabbing conspiracy. He rejected the notion that the project is being managed in the public interest, asserting that the initiative appears designed to benefit a specific interest group. TIB has formally requested that high-level authorities intervene, cancel the project immediately, and launch a thorough investigation into the matter.

LG Electronics Announces Five Winners for 2026 Ambassador Challenge in Bangladesh

Read Article

In response to claims by the Managing Director of Dhaka WASA that the proposal remains in a preliminary stage and is being handled without external pressure, Iftekharuzzaman pointed out the contradictions in the narrative. He noted that RAJUK, the authority that leased the land, was reportedly not informed of the development plans, further underscoring the influence of vested interests.

The TIB Executive Director highlighted that even segments of the Dhaka WASA Performance Assistance Committee have voiced objections to the project. He warned that allowing state property to be used for private profit sets a dangerous precedent. TIB concluded by urging the government to ensure that Dhaka WASA operates free from political or administrative intimidation, insisting that if any development is necessary, it must follow an open, transparent, and fair tender process.