Since assuming his role as Religious Affairs Adviser, Dr AFM Khalid Hossain has overseen a series of development and reform initiatives at the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque.

“These efforts — ranging from improved infrastructure to enhanced safety and facility upgrades — are already transforming the national mosque into a more conducive place of worship and service,” he said at a press conference at the mosque on Sunday.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs organised the press conference to inform the countrymen about the overall ‘development and renovation of Baitul Mukarram Mosque.’

“We can’t change everything overnight as per our wishes… But we have already completed several development works, some works are ongoing, and some more will be started within the shortest possible time,” he mentioned.

Dr Khalid said a new sub-station has been constructed and a high-power generator installed at a cost of Tk 11 crore to solve the electricity problem.

“Besides, fire extinguishing systems have also been newly added and fire hydrants have been installed at 80 sensitive spots. In addition, a submersible pump has been installed to ensure an uninterrupted water supply for the mosque. A modern and advanced sound system has also been added,” the adviser said.

Dr Khalid said a new drainage system has been installed, while all 40 ACs inside the mosque and the women’s prayer rooms have been serviced and activated.

He said 12,000 square feet of high-quality carpets have been added, and the prayer mats and carpets of the minar have been replaced at a cost of Tk 49.17 lakh.

The adviser said that in the last one year, 120 new ceiling fans and 10 pedestal (stand) fans have been added to the 3rd and 4th floors of the mosque.

Besides, an agreement has been signed with a private security company for round-the-clock cleaning, and 12 people have been appointed in this regard, he said.

In addition, 30 toilets and ablution basins have been newly constructed on the east side with a modern and sustainable design, he added.

As part of the development work, the adviser said four damaged gates on the south and east sides have been newly constructed, and overhead shoe boxes have been provided to the mosque.

The adviser said Tk 2 crore in arrears has been collected from the Baitul Mukarram Mosque Market, and two shops have been recovered from illegal occupants.

“The two car parking spaces in this market have generated revenue of Tk 70.50 lakh… In the last one year, the capital of the mosque and the market has increased from Tk 90 crore to Tk 110 crore,” he informed.

Religious Affairs Secretary Md Kamal Uddin, Additional Secretary Imtiaz Ahmed, Islamic Foundation Director General A Salam Khan, WAQF Administrator Nur Alam, and other senior officials of the ministry were present.