A rural infrastructure development project in Shahrasti upazila of Chandpur has come under scrutiny after Tk 50 lakh was reportedly withdrawn without any progress on the planned culvert construction.
Residents of Ragoi village in Suchiparasouth Union have voiced their concerns, claiming that a 12-metre-long culvert, which was part of the 2023–2024 fiscal year’s rural development initiative, remains incomplete months after the funds were released, reports UNB.
The situation has sparked outrage among the locals, leading to an official investigation into potential financial misconduct and administrative oversight.
According to project records, the initiative had a total allocation of over Tk 1.8 crore, part of which was designated for constructing the culvert in the Tapadar Bari Khalpara area. Contractor Tajul Islam Sumon was entrusted with the task, but the project failed to move forward despite the site being ready for work.
In May 2025, the contractor withdrew Tk 50 lakh, almost half of the allocated funds, without initiating any construction activities.
The irregularity was uncovered through a report on upazila development progress dated May 29, which was signed by the then Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Nigar Sultana and Upazila Project Implementation Officer (PIO) Md Sabuj. Both officials have since been transferred, according to confidential sources.
Current UNO Nazia Hossain confirmed the issue, stating, “The contractor has withdrawn Tk 50 lakh without doing the work… a formal investigation is underway. Action will follow based on the findings.”
Deputy Commissioner of the district Mohammad Mohsin Uddin also assured accountability. “If the project bill was withdrawn without completing the work, action will definitely be taken. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the culvert is constructed.”
For the locals, the unbuilt culvert is more than just an incomplete project; it has become a daily hindrance.
Abu Sayeed, a resident of the area, said, “The contractor didn’t start the work. After the issue surfaced, he only left some stones at the site.”
Mojibur Rahman, another villager, emphasized the importance of the culvert. “It’s vital for our area. Without it, travel becomes difficult, especially during the rainy season.”
