Housing and Public Works Minister Orders Construction of Environmentally Friendly Infrastructure

Mohammad Saifur Rahman, Dhaka, capital city of Bangladesh : In a significant move towards sustainable development, Housing and Public Works Minister, Bir Muktijodha R. A. M. Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury MP, has directed the construction of carbon-free, sustainable, and environment-friendly infrastructure. This directive came during the meeting of the Board of Directors of the Housing and Building Research Institute (HBRI) held on Sunday, April 21.

Chairing the meeting, Minister Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury emphasized the vision of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in formulating essential laws for the country’s administration within a short span. Recognizing the socio-economic context of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu established various institutions for public welfare, including the Housing and Building Research Centre. The Minister highlighted the global discourse on environmental protection and carbon emissions reduction, underscoring Bangabandhu’s foresight in establishing the institute for research on carbon-free, sustainable, and environment-friendly construction materials.

Following the passage of the HBRI Act in 2018, the current council was formed on April 4, 2023, marking the 73rd session since the institute’s establishment. Decisions regarding recruitment, promotion, and retirement benefits dating back to 2018 were approved during the meeting.

Moreover, a sub-committee led by Additional Secretary Shakila Jannat of the Ministry of Housing and Public Works was tasked with determining the financial management of the institute’s own income. The meeting also saw the decision to upgrade the positions of Senior Research Officer and Research Assistant/Associate within the institute.

Distinguished attendees at the meeting included Vice-Chairman of the Steering Council, Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, Mr. Nurul Islam, and Principal Engineer of the Department of Public Works (LGED), Mr. Ali Akhtar Hossain.

Prior to the meeting, Minister Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury visited an exhibition showcasing various environmentally friendly construction materials developed by HBRI. During the visit, he directed the installation of solar panels in all government buildings, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to sustainable practices.