Realtors call for urgent revision of DAP 2022–2035 to save housing sector

The Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh (REHAB) has termed the Detailed Area Plan (DAP) 2022–2035 as 'discriminatory' and 'flawed,' urging the interim government to revise the plan and quickly introduce new regulations to revive the housing sector and its 200-plus associated industries.

Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Tuesday, REHAB President Md Wahiduzzaman said the plan’s implementation has brought new housing projects to a standstill.

“The new DAP imposes harsh restrictions on Floor Area Ratio (FAR), slashing building height and size allowances,” Wahiduzzaman said.

“Landowners are reluctant to hand over land, and development has nearly frozen," he added. 

He warned that this stagnation is rippling across housing-related industries, such as steel, cement, bricks, tiles, paints, and cables, leading to factory shutdowns and job losses.

“Rod demand has fallen by 50 per cent. Many factories have reduced production or closed shifts,” he said. “The longer this persists, the deeper the economic and social consequences.”

REHAB leaders also pressed for a pro-business national budget that addresses VAT and tax burdens, stimulates investment, and boosts employment.

Senior Vice-President Liakat Ali Bhuiyan and Vice-President Abdur Razzaque also spoke at the event.

sajibur@gmail.com