President, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association vs. Bangladesh, 9 SCOB (2017) AD

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) constructed a 15-storey commercial complex on the Begunbari Khal and Hatirjheel Lake, covering parts of these two natural bodies of water located in Dhaka City. According to the court, the water bodies play a pivotal role in keeping Dhaka safe from waterlogging and flooding during the heavy rains of the monsoon season. For this reason, the Master Plan of Dhaka City classified them as protected bodies of water. Furthermore, the court found that BGMEA had in fact never acquired legal title to the subject land, considering that it is part of the Begunbari Khal and Hatirjheel Lake which are protected water bodies. Consequently, the commercial construction is unlawful. The court thus upheld the decision directing the BGMEA to demolish its illegally constructed building.