Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Thursday expressed concern over an initiative by the Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (Wasa) to construct a residential building on 114 katha of land in Gulshan, Dhaka, based on a proposal submitted by a privately owned housing company.

TIB called for the process to be withdrawn immediately, saying the proposal had been made without following due process and could facilitate land grabbing.

In a statement, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said Wasa’s assets belong to the people and any activity involving public assets should be carried out through a transparent and participatory process, including tenders.

“This is a clear violation of the relevant laws and policy framework. Moreover, instead of rejecting the proposal outright, as should have been done, Wasa has, within a very short period, formed a committee and undertaken a token process in the name of considering the proposal, thereby effectively becoming complicit in the proposing company’s alleged scheme to grab the land. Such conduct is in no way acceptable. I urge the relevant higher authorities to take note of the matter, immediately cancel this initiative, and ensure a proper investigation into it,” he said.

Referring to the Dhaka Wasa managing director’s statement that the proposal is still at the preliminary stage and that the next steps will be taken in the interest of Dhaka Wasa, Iftekharuzzaman said the initiative raised concerns about vested interests.

He also said some members of Wasa’s performance support committee had reportedly objected to the initiative.

“If Wasa intends to construct a building or undertake any development on the land in the interest of the institution, we expect that, after duly assessing the justification for such a development, it will make a decision through an open, transparent and participatory tender process, in accordance with the existing policy framework and with a view to safeguarding the best possible interests of Wasa. At the same time, we strongly urge the relevant authorities to ensure an appropriate environment in which the institution can take a decision on the matter free from any political or administrative pressure, fear or influence,” said the TIB chief.