Bauphal (Patuakhali) Correspondent

Allegations of widespread irregularities have surfaced in the construction of a boundary wall at a primary school in Bauphal, Patuakhali. Parents, teachers, and notable local figures have expressed their outrage over the issue.

According to sources, under the funding of the Primary Education Development Program (PEDP-4) for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) initiated the construction of a boundary wall around Madanpura Board Government Primary School. Following the tender process, the project, valued at Tk 22 lakh 7,758 was awarded to two construction firms, Kazi Traders and Al-Madina, through a joint contract.

During an on-site inspection, Madanpura Union Jubo Dal President Ziauddin Mahmud stated that the project is not being executed as per the schedule. Substandard materials are being used, the grilles for the boundary wall do not follow the approved design, and cracks have appeared in several places even before the construction is complete. He questioned the durability of the project due to the shoddy workmanship. He further alleged that the same contractor has committed irregularities in the boundary wall construction at Uttar-Purba Madanpura Government Primary School. He emphasized that such blatant irregularities cannot be tolerated.

The headteacher of Madanpura Board Government Primary School, Rezaul Karim, said that neither the contractor nor the responsible LGED officials visit the site. Workers have been repeatedly warned against irregularities, yet they continue. Taking advantage of the Eid-ul-Azha holidays, the grille work was completed. He added that the matter has been reported to higher authorities.

Denying the allegations, Kazi Rajib, a representative of the construction firms, claimed that the work is progressing as per the schedule. He stated that any deficiencies in the work would be rectified.

Baufal Upazila LGED Engineer Shyamal Kumar Gain commented that the project will be investigated, and appropriate action will be taken if irregularities are found.