It is supremely ironical that these structures should have come under assault at a time when extensive preparations are underway to mark the 400th anniversary of the city of Dhaka. Just consider the preparations for tearing down the magnificent 550 year old Binat Bibi Mosque at Narinda, the oldest one of this city. Apparently, it is being broken down to facilitate congregation of a larger number of devotees. The old structure has already been made into a newly built three storey building over its original structure of a single storey.

Like the Binat Bibi Mosque, Islam Khan's Mosque of no less consequence was also broken down on January 14, 2000. Dhaka's the then Subedar Islam Khan built this Mosque in 1608. Today's Islampur was named soon after completion of this mosque.

We understand that moves are underway to alter the structural uniqueness of the Ambar Shah Mosque too, located at Karwan Bazaar, in the name of renovation. Notably this mosque was built in 1679 by Subedar Shaista Khan of the Mughal Era. The Satgambud Mosque located in Muhammadpur also awaits the same fate. Already the very character and essence of the structure as a heritage building have been ruined due to the so called repair and renovation work.

We are also appalled by the fact that a number of other heritage buildings of no less consequence continue to lose their structural essence and grandeur, despite their being listed as heritage sites by the Department of Archeology including the largest palace of Dhaka , the Ruplal House.

Heritage buildings and sites are not only representative of the country's history and culture but also help their preservation. Structures like these also happen to be the very symbol of our pride.

We thus strongly feel it is high time that the administration put a halt to such degrading acts. One of the major steps in achieving that goal would be to activate and empower the Department of Archeology. If need be assistance, financial and otherwise, could be sought from the UNESCO.