Sherpur (Bogura) Correspondent

Allegations of illegal construction through unauthorized transactions have surfaced in the government-owned area of Bhawanipur market in Sherpur Upazila of Bogura district.

Starting from Thursday (April 4) until Monday (April 8), it has been observed that construction of 24 semi-permanent tin-shed shops has been swiftly progressing under the supervision of influential individuals without proper approval. The incident occurred in Bhawanipur market, a significant area within Bhawanipur Union of Sherpur Upazila. Local residents and working journalists have informed that the influential chairman of the union is overseeing these construction activities, allegedly extorting considerable sums of money from undisclosed traders and providing them with shop spaces. Many traders like myself have not been fortunate enough to secure shop spaces.

While the sub-leaser of a section of the market confirmed this, alleging that the chairman has earned more than crores of takas from the positions of these shops, the shopkeepers are now bearing the construction costs themselves. The chairman's influence is so pervasive that no one in the locality dares to speak out against him. When approached for comment, Chairman Abul Kalam Azad of Bhawanipur Union Parishad stated that the construction of these shop spaces falls under the jurisdiction of the Upazila Parishad's market development plan.

On the other hand, upon contacting the Upazila Parishad, officials denied involvement in the construction of the 24 shops. Shamsunnahar Shuly, an official, stated that this project does not fall under her knowledge. Julhas, an engineer at the Local Government Engineering Department, disclosed that there are two projects underway in Bhawanipur market: construction of an LGED building and an open shed. However, the construction of new tin-shed shop spaces is not part of my project.

The rampant illegal construction in Bhawanipur market raises serious concerns about corruption and irregularities in the management of public spaces. Authorities need to investigate these allegations promptly to uphold justice and restore public trust in governance.

Sub assistant land officer of Bhabanipur Union Mahbubul Alam, informed that a directive has been issued by the Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) S.M. Rezaul Karim to halt construction work. However, the directive hasn’t seemed to have any immediate effect as work continues unabated. Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) S.M. Rezaul Karim stated that he will verify the information through the concerned officials and take necessary steps accordingly. Meanwhile, Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sumon Jehadi said, he is preparing to take multiple measures to address the situation. Although Bogura District Administrator Saiful Islam remains uninformed about the issue, his prompt attention is anticipated.