Govt Mandates Online Building Approvals Nationwide Within Six Months

The government has directed all regional development authorities to launch online building design approval systems within the next six months. The new system will mirror the Capital Development Authority (RAJUK) model, utilizing its existing software infrastructure.

This decision was finalized during a June 1 review meeting at the Secretariat, chaired by Housing and Public Works Secretary Md. Nazrul Islam.

Currently, RAJUK processes building approvals online via its One Stop Service (OSS) platform within a standard 24 working days. Additionally, land use clearance certificates are issued entirely online through the Electronic Construction Permit System (ECPS).

According to meeting minutes, the nationwide system will fully launch following a two-month training period for relevant estate and land branch staff. This digital shift will eliminate the need for citizens to visit government offices in person and significantly reduce service delivery times. To further streamline these services, an 11-member committee has already begun drafting a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure transparency across RAJUK's operations.

Officials noted that expanding RAJUK’s digital model to all development authorities will increase transparency in the application, verification, and approval processes. It will also save citizens time and money while reducing administrative bottlenecks.

Housing and Public Works Minister Zakaria Taher and State Minister Ahmed Sohel Manju emphasized that meeting these deadlines is crucial to fulfilling government election promises. They warned that officials and departments will be held directly responsible for any implementation delays.

The Ministry of Housing and Public Works oversees 12 development authorities. Established bodies include the Capital (RAJUK), Chittagong, Khulna, Rajshahi, Cox's Bazar, and Gazipur Development Authorities. Newly formed authorities cover Sylhet, Mymensingh, Barisal, Comilla, Rangpur, and Narayanganj.

Securing land use clearance and construction approval is mandatory before building in any of these jurisdictions. RAJUK first introduced limited online clearances in 2016, moving to a fully digital system by 2019. Under the current digital framework, applicants simply register online, upload required documents, and download their approved certificates once the verification process is complete.