A slab in front of the newly constructed bus shed at the Barishal campus of Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) collapsed before its inauguration, sparking widespread criticism among students and stakeholders over the quality and transparency of the construction work.
According to university sources, the tin-roofed bus shed was built with an allocation of around Tk 1.4 million. However, the slab’s collapse before official use has raised serious concerns about the project’s construction standards. Weak concrete, broken brick chips, and rusted rods scattered at the site are being viewed as evidence of substandard materials used in the project.
Several students expressed frustration, saying,“It’s alarming to see such a newly built structure collapse so soon. This raises doubts about the quality of other ongoing and future construction projects on campus.”
Following the incident, the authorities began reconstructing the damaged slab. When contacted, contractor Abdul Halim claimed,“Usually, newly built structures should not be used for at least 27 days after completion. However, the slab was damaged on one side due to the movement of a heavy truck.”
Regarding allegations of using low-quality bricks, he admitted,“Some old bricks were initially used, but after receiving complaints, we immediately stopped using them.” Professor Dr. Ahsanur Reza, convener of the monitoring committee, said,“As soon as we were informed about the use of poor-quality bricks, we took immediate action and halted the work.”
He further added,“We will repair the damaged portion as quickly as possible.”
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