Secretariat Building 7 can be usable after renovation: Expert

Deputy Assistant Engineer Abdul Mannan Bhuiyan of the Eden Bhaban Public Works Department expressed optimism that Secretariat Building 7, which suffered extensive damage in a devastating fire, can be repaired and restored for use. 

Speaking to reporters on Monday (December 30) at the Secretariat premises, Mannan Bhuiyan provided an initial assessment of the situation.

“We from the Public Works Department arrived promptly after the fire broke out on Wednesday and extended our fullest cooperation to the Fire Service,” he said.

The building, housing approximately six ministries, has 40 to 50 rooms on each floor. According to Bhuiyan, four floors were affected, with some areas completely destroyed while others suffered partial damage.

Regarding the building’s usability, Bhuiyan said, “Several high-level teams have already conducted investigations, and further actions will depend on the expert team’s recommendations. However, based on our initial observations, it appears that the building can be repaired.”

The final decision, including the timeline for repairs, will only be made after receiving the detailed investigation report.

Bhuiyan noted that law enforcement agencies are yet to formally hand over the building to the Public Works Department. “Once they complete their assessment and report on the extent of the damage, we will have a clearer idea of the time required for repairs,” he said.

Responding to queries about the fire incident, Bhuiyan strongly denied any negligence on the part of the Public Works Department, emphasizing their proactive response and cooperation throughout the crisis.

Further updates on the building's repair and restoration will depend on the findings of ongoing investigations and expert evaluations.