A Tk10 crore auditorium in Pirojpur’s Nazirpur now lies abandoned and has become a hotspot for drug use due to incomplete construction.
The project, implemented through the Upazila Engineering Office, was awarded to Simran Mayan Trade Enterprise and MMTI (JV).
Construction began in June 2020 with a scheduled completion date of June 2022.
However, more than three years past the deadline, the work remains unfinished, even though the allocated funds were reportedly withdrawn in full.
With no boundary wall, security, or oversight, the half-built structure has turned into an unsafe space where illicit activities take place once night falls, locals said.
Residents have alleged severe irregularities in the construction process, including the absence of required piling, which they claim has already resulted in major cracks in the building.
Some locals further allege that the project was effectively controlled by Nurul Alam Siddique Shaheen, younger brother of former Pirojpur-1 MP and minister SM Rezaul Karim an allegation that could not be independently verified.
They also claim they faced threats when questioning the quality of work.
Resident Mizanur Rahman said, “Irregularities began from day one. Piling was supposed to be done, but it never happened. When locals questioned the quality of work, the contractor, the minister’s brother threatened them at gunpoint”.
Built on filled land without a proper foundation, the structure has developed widespread cracks and has since become a hotspot for drug use and illicit activities, he further added.
Despite repeated reminders from the Upazila Engineering Office, the contractor ignored directives and used political influence to delay the work, even after withdrawing the full project funds.
When contacted, upazila engineering officials declined to comment on the issue.
Nazirpur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sajia Shahnaz Toma said, all local development work with reported irregularities are on hold pending investigation, after which the administration will ensure their timely completion.
