Slow progress clouds IsDB-funded project in Sirajganj

Uncertainty looms over the timely completion of a Faecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management Plant being constructed in the Bonbaria area of Sirajganj, as allegations of corruption, irregularities, and negligence surface against the implementing authorities and contractor.

The project, undertaken by the Department of Public Health Engineering (DPHE) with funding from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), appears to be lagging far behind schedule, sparking concern among local residents.

Although Md. Rokonuzzaman, Executive Engineer of DPHE in Sirajganj, claimed that around 60 percent of the work has been completed, insiders suggest that the actual progress is only between 8 to 10 percent even after more than a year since work began on January 1, 2025.

Sources allege that a significant portion of the project funds-out of the total contract value of Tk 131,899,296-has already been withdrawn despite minimal physical progress.

This raises doubts about the feasibility of completing the remaining work within the stipulated deadline of June 30, 2027.

The project falls under the government initiative titled “Inclusive and Integrated Sanitation and Hygiene Project in 10 Priority Towns in Bangladesh.”

It includes the construction of one faecal sludge management plant and one solid waste management system on the outskirts of Sirajganj municipality. The contract was awarded to a Dhaka-based firm, M/S Noor & Co.

During a recent site visit, this correspondent observed that only a boundary wall and a few basic structures, including an office room, had been built. Many of these structures already show signs of damage due to poor maintenance.

Broken latrine doors and abandoned construction equipment were also seen at the site. No workers or representatives of the contractor were present during the visit.

Local residents complained that the site has effectively turned into an open dumping ground for municipal waste, causing a persistent foul odor that disrupts daily life.

Pedestrians and commuters reportedly cover their noses or wear masks while passing through the area.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, an assistant engineer from the DPHE Sirajganj office said, “There are numerous issues surrounding the project. The Dhaka-based contractor has subcontracted the work and appears unconcerned about its progress.

Moreover, there is a lack of proper monitoring by the DPHE authorities. As a result, the project is moving forward very slowly amid serious negligence, and no effective oversight is in place.”

The situation has triggered frustration among locals, who are demanding accountability and immediate action to ensure proper implementation of the project.