Jhalakathi, Mar 25 (V7N)– A government-funded canal excavation project in Rajapur Upazila, intended to alleviate waterlogging and improve agricultural irrigation, is facing serious allegations of irregularities and mismanagement, leading to concerns about wasted public funds.

"There have been allegations of widespread irregularities in the implementation of a canal excavation project initiated by the government in Galua Union of Rajapur Upazila of Jhalakathi," a local resident confirmed.

The project, involving the excavation of a 3-kilometer canal in Putiakhali village, has been marred by accusations of incomplete work, insufficient depth and width of the canals, and poorly constructed banks, raising fears of collapse during the rainy season.

"Locals claim that they are not getting the desired benefits as the work is not completed to a high standard due to embezzlement of project funds and negligence in the excavation work," a community spokesperson stated.

Residents allege that only a small portion of the canal was excavated, with the remainder left untouched. In some areas, only the topsoil was removed, failing to meet the required depth specifications.

"Local residents said that a small section was cut in the name of canal digging, while the rest remained in its original state. In addition, in some places, only the top layer was cut without removing the soil to the permitted depth and work was done in a haphazard manner," a local farmer reported.

Farmers, who were expecting improved irrigation facilities, are disappointed with the outcome.

"Local farmer Abdul Aziz said, 'We thought we would get irrigation facilities on the land after digging the canal, but we are still facing water shortage as before. If the work had been done properly, it would have benefited us,'" Aziz stated.

There are also allegations that contractors and officials demanded and received payments from residents in exchange for proper excavation work near their properties.

"Meanwhile, there are allegations that money was taken from many people and a large part of the money went into the pockets of the contractors and officials concerned for not doing the excavation work properly in front of their houses," a community member alleged.

The Rajapur Upazila Engineering Office has stated that they are investigating the matter.

"Regarding these allegations, the Rajapur Upazila Engineering Office says that they are investigating the matter," an engineering office representative confirmed.

The contractor involved, Md. Zakir Hossain, declined to comment.

"The contractor concerned in this matter, Md. Zakir Hossain, could not be interviewed as he did not agree to speak in front of the camera," a local journalist reported.

Rajapur Upazila Deputy Assistant Engineer Md. Mostafizur Rahman stated that measurements will be taken upon completion, and contractors will be paid accordingly.

"Rajapur Upazila Deputy Assistant Engineer Md. Mostafizur Rahman said, 'Once the canal excavation is completed, we will send surveyors to measure it. If they cut less soil, they will get less money. They will get money for the less soil they cut,'" Rahman explained.

Rajapur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Rahul Chanda has assured that action will be taken if the allegations are substantiated.

"Rajapur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Rahul Chanda said, 'We are investigating the irregularities. If the allegations are found to be true, action will be taken against those concerned,'" Chanda stated.

Local residents are demanding a swift investigation and punitive measures to ensure transparency and prevent the waste of public funds. Concerns have been raised that such irregularities could erode public trust in government development projects.

END/AIJ/RH/