Tk 50 lakh gone, Chandpur culvert nowhere in sight

A rural infrastructure project meant to ease transportation woes in Shahrasti upazila of Chandpur has become a textbook case of alleged financial irregularities, as Tk 50 lakh was reportedly withdrawn without any construction taking place.

The residents of Ragoi village in Suchiparasouth Union allege that a 12-metre-long culvert, planned under the 2023–2024 fiscal year’s rural development initiative, remains untouched even months after funds were released.

The revelation has sparked anger among locals and prompted an official probe into possible corruption and administrative negligence.

According to official documents, the project had an allocation exceeding Tk 1.8 crore, with a portion earmarked for building the culvert at Tapadar Bari Khalpara area.

Contractor Tajul Islam Sumon was assigned to carry out the work. But, construction never started despite the site’s readiness.

In May 2025, the contractor withdrew Tk 50 lakh—almost half of the allocated funds—without initiating any physical work.

The irregularity came to light through an upazila development progress report dated May 29, reportedly 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 sources who preferred anonymity.

Current UNO Nazia Hossain confirmed the allegations, saying, “The contractor has withdrawn Tk 50 lakh without doing the work… a formal investigation is underway.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 “If the project bill was withdrawn without completing the work, action will definitely be taken.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 residents, the unbuilt culvert represents more than just an unfinished project—it is a disruption to daily life.

Abu Sayeed, a local resident, said, “The contractor didn’t start the work. After the issue surfaced, he only left some stones at the site.”

Another villager, Mojibur Rahman, described the culvert as essential. “It’s vital for our area. Without it, travel becomes difficult, especially during the rainy season.”

Residents Saleha Begum and Mariamennesa echoed similar frustrations, noting that the culvert would ease travel for education, healthcare, and market access. “We have to travel long distances for basic needs. This culvert would make life much easier,” Saleha said.

When contacted, contractor Tajul Islam Sumon cited site conditions for the delay. “I couldn’t start the work due to water at the location,” he said.

When asked how he withdrew Tk 50 lakh without progress, he replied, “Please speak to the Project Implementation Officer (PIO) about this.”

UNO Nazia Hossain reiterated the public importance of the site and said coordination with the new PIO is underway to resume the project. “The location holds public importance, and efforts are ongoing to ensure the culvert is built,” she said.

DC Mohsin Uddin said the administration is taking steps to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the alleged misappropriation.

“We will ensure the culvert’s construction and take necessary measures against any misuse of government funds,” he affirmed.