A bridge under construction at a cost of around Tk 2.2 crore in Chandpur's Matlab municipality has developed major cracks before the work is even completed, triggering allegations of poor-quality construction and prompting residents to demand an independent technical investigation.

The nearly 100-foot bridge, being built near Bardia Bazar to replace an old 10-foot culvert, has been under construction for about four months. The project also includes approach roads on both sides.

According to locals, visible cracks have appeared in different parts of the bridge, although construction is still underway.

They alleged that substandard construction materials and irregularities have marked the project from the beginning.

Residents also claimed that the contractor has suspended work after they protested the alleged poor-quality construction.

A visit to the site found visible cracks at several parts on the structure, raising questions about its structural integrity even before completion.

"The bridge is being constructed at a cost of around Tk 2.2 crore, but the quality of work is extremely poor," said local resident Riad Hossain, echoing the concerns of other residents.

"If the work continues in this manner, the bridge could become hazardous within a short time after completion. We want the authorities to conduct a neutral investigation and ensure that the project is completed maintaining proper standards," he said.

The residents also urged the local MP to intervene in the matter.

Another resident, Mehedi Hasan Mizi, alleged that whenever locals questioned the quality of the work, the contractor and some municipal officials accused them of attempting extortion.

"Substandard materials have been used since the beginning. Now major cracks have appeared from the bottom to the top of the bridge," he claimed.

However, contractor Md Jahir rejected the allegations. "The allegations are not true. The quality of the construction is satisfactory," he told.

Contacted over the phone, Matlab municipality Assistant Engineer (Civil) Ferdous Ahmed, who is responsible for supervising the project, declined to comment on the issue, and instead advised the correspondent to contact the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), who is currently serving as the municipality's administrator.

Local residents demanded the formation of an independent technical investigation committee to examine the quality of work, identify the cause of the cracks and take action against those responsible if any irregularities are found.

They expressed fear that if such cracks have already appeared before the bridge is completed, it could pose a serious risk to public safety once opened to traffic.