A Tk1.5 crore road repair project under the Teesta irrigation scheme in Nilphamari’s Kishorganj Upazila has come under scrutiny after the newly laid bitumen surface began peeling off within 24 hours of completion.
Residents said the asphalt layer could be lifted by hand in several sections, triggering anger and raising concerns over construction quality and supervision.
According to local sources, around Tk1 crore 38 lakh was allocated to repair a 2,200-metre stretch of a key connecting road in the upazila, implemented by a contractor under the Saidpur Water Development Board.
Allegations over the quality of work had surfaced from the outset, residents said.
On-site inspection found the carpeting layer loose at multiple points, with the bitumen coating detaching easily from the surface.
Locals alleged that asphalt was laid directly over dusty ground without proper preparation, while damaged portions of the old road were not repaired before applying the new layer.
Several residents warned that the road could collapse during the monsoon if the condition persists.
They said the surface is already deteriorating rapidly, making movement risky, particularly for those living near roadside drains who fear accidents.
Residents also pointed out the absence of brick edging along both sides of the road, which could accelerate erosion during rainfall.
They alleged the work was carried out hastily and riddled with irregularities, resulting in misuse of public funds.
No comment was immediately available from the contractor, Messrs Jamal Hossain.
Saidpur Water Development Board Executive Engineer Md Akhinuzzaman said completed works remain under observation for 12 months, during which any defects are repaired by the contractor.
“There is no scope for irregularities under this system,” he said.
However, locals questioned the effectiveness of such oversight, saying the rapid deterioration within a day raises serious concerns over quality control and monitoring.
