1,500 flats planned in Dhaka for July Uprising victims

The government has approved a Tk 13.44 billion (1,344 crore) project to build over 1,500 flats in Dhaka for distribution among those severely injured during the July uprising for free.

The National Housing Authority under the Ministry of Housing and Public Works will construct the flats on government land in Mirpur Section-9.

Each 1,250-square-foot flat will include two bedrooms, a living room, dining space, kitchen, and three bathrooms. One specially designed room will be there to cater to the need of injured individuals, particularly those with disabilities or loss of eyesight.

The initiative follows an earlier project, involvingthe construction of 804 flats in Mirpur Section 14 at a cost of Tk 7.62 billion, to provide the families of those martyred in the uprising with housing.

National Housing Authority Chairman Syed MdNurul Bashir said the construction will take four years, and flat allocations will be determined later based on injury severity. “Many victims lost mobility or vision during the movement. The government is ensuring these homes are fully accessible,” he added.

On 7 July, the Planning Commission’s Project Evaluation Committee gave preliminary approval to the plan. Both housing schemes are expected to be cleared at an upcoming ECNEC meeting and completed by 2029.

According to government data, 1,401 people were severely injured in the July uprising, with 19 losing their eyesight completely and 382 partially blinded.

Besides, 834 individuals have been officially recognised as martyrs. The government has been supporting affected families through grants and monthly allowances, and the new housing initiative aims to provide them with permanent, accessible living spaces.