Bridge Built Over Non-Existent Canal Leaves Jhalakathi Families in Lurch

A new bridge has been constructed in the Godanda area of Subidpur Union, Nalchiti, despite the complete absence of a visible canal. Now, plans to build connecting approach roads for the bridge threaten to block access for several local families, sparking widespread concern and anger.

According to the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) in Jhalakathi, the 10-meter RCC slab bridge is part of the BDIRWSP project. The Tk 3.79 crore project is being implemented by contractor MS Islam Brothers Limited. Work began in February 2024 and is slated for completion in November 2025, with over Tk 74 lakh already paid out.

Locals point out that while a small canal and box culvert once existed at the site, the waterway dried up and was filled in years ago. The construction of a new slab bridge over dry land has raised serious questions about the project's necessity and the use of public funds.

Residents allege that authorities ignored ground realities. Constructing the approach roads will effectively trap several roadside households.

"To make the bridge operational, they will have to build a road right in front of our house, disrupting our normal movement," said Abbas Hawlader, a local resident. "We need an acceptable solution to this problem."

Some locals have accused the project's officer-in-charge, Deputy Assistant Engineer Moinul Azam, of colluding with the contractor to push the project through without a proper field survey.

Azam firmly denied the allegations. "I am not involved in any irregularities," he stated. "We will ensure alternative transportation arrangements for the families who may be affected."

Upazila Engineer Azizul Haque acknowledged the complications, noting that the bridge was built on the footprint of the old culvert. "We are currently reviewing the situation to find a way to build the connecting road without causing hardship to the locals," he said.

Locals maintain that this situation could have been entirely avoided with a proper feasibility study, and are demanding a rapid reassessment of the project to protect public interest.