The Chattogram Development Authority (CDA) is struggling with a manpower shortage due to the retirement of many architects, engineers, and planners in the last two decades.
Although around 300 people work at this organization in Chattogram, there is a manpower shortage of over 600. Due to the limited workforce, the organization is unable to perform its duties properly under the pressure of excessive work.
It is known that the master plan for the development of Chattogram City was formulated in 1995, but adequate manpower was not recruited for its implementation. In the past 22 years, 12 architects were retired from the CDA, but none were appointed as replacements. As a result, one person has to manage the responsibilities of multiple projects.
At present, there is only one architect at the CDA. There are only three building inspectors. As a result, approval for building designs often takes years. Against the 11 positions for town planners, only seven are working.
Meanwhile, numerous buildings are being constructed in the city without adhering to the building code, putting them at risk.
The newly appointed Chairman of CDA, Engineer Md Nurul Karim, mentioned that an initiative to create a more people-friendly CDA with skilled manpower has been taken.
He said the process of recruiting staff for the CDA will begin soon. We had a meeting at the ministry in Dhaka on Sunday regarding this. We will make every effort with complete sincerity to ensure that skilled and qualified persons are recruited. The CDA will move towards improvement now.
