Questions over stone quality in Kulaura canal work

Allegations have emerged regarding the use of substandard stone in the construction of a 900-metre palisade along both sides of the Mora Gugali Chora canal in Kulaura Municipality, Moulvibazar.

Local residents have expressed concern that the ongoing block and palisade work in the Mansur area is being carried out with poor-quality materials.

They fear that, given the municipality’s vulnerability to flooding, the structure may not provide the intended protection if the current standards are maintained.

On Monday, 13 April at around 9:30 am, Member of Parliament Shawkatul Islam Shoku inspected several development projects in the municipal area. Speaking to reporters, he stated, “During the inspection of the construction work of the blocks and bridges used for palisade work along the Mora Gugali Chora canal, I observed that the stones being used are of very poor quality. The blocks are not as durable as they should be, and it is uncertain how long they will last.”

He added that he has instructed the relevant authorities, including the contracting company, to ensure that the work is carried out to an acceptable standard.

According to the Water Development Board, the project – valued at Tk 1 crore 97 lakh 76 thousand – was awarded to Mahiya Enterprise for implementation during the 2025-26 fiscal year.

The work, which covers 900 metres on both sides of the canal, was officially inaugurated on 4 December 2025 by Municipality Administrator Md Mohiuddin and Executive Engineer of the Moulvibazar Water Development Board, Md Khaled Bin Oled.

Taposh, site manager for Mahiya Enterprise, stated that the stones used in the project have been sent to a laboratory in Sylhet for testing.

“Following the test reports and after consultations with the Water Development Board, we were granted permission to proceed. We are continuing the work accordingly,” he said.

Kulaura Municipality Assistant Engineer Md Kamrul Islam clarified that the municipality is not responsible for the project, noting that it falls under the jurisdiction of the Water Development Board.

Executive Engineer Md Khaled Bin Oled confirmed that samples of stones and rods were tested in Sylhet and found to be satisfactory. Additional samples have also been sent to Dhaka for further examination.

“An expert team has collected block samples for testing, and we are awaiting the results. We are closely monitoring the work to ensure quality standards are upheld,” he added.