In Mirzaganj, Patuakhali, nine projects are being implemented under Rural Infrastructure Maintenance (TR), Food for Work (Kabikha) and Money for Work (Kabita) reform programs. Allegations of widespread irregularities and corruption have been raised. Most of the projects that are undertaken do not get a quarter of the work done.
There are some projects on paper. In reality the existence of work cannot be found. Thus, most of the projects are being implemented only on paper. There are allegations that most of the money allocated in some projects has been pocketed by the connivance of the supervising officers by showing nominal work.
According to the Upazila PIO office, in the fiscal year 2020-21, in 6 unions of the upazila, under TR 64 projects in 4 installments, Tk 52 lakh 14 thousand 170 and Kabita 24 projects received Tk 64 lakh 19 thousand 160. In favor of the local MP, Tk 75 lakh 82 thousand 666 was allocated under 43 projects of TR and 46 tons of rice was allotted in 4 projects under other 3 TR projects. Besides, Tk 44 lakh was allocated under 11 projects of Kabita. Most of the projects have seen nominal work.
It was seen on spot that The headmaster of Kismatpur Girls Secondary School embezzled Tk 1 lakh 35 thousand without doing any work.. The headmaster does not know when the allocation has been made for the project of Tk. 150,000 for the renovation of Amragachhia Secondary School. Subidkhali Shaheed Abdul Quader Jomaddar Road Al-Madina Jame Mosque ground filling project has been done nominally. In this way, he has informed the concerned higher authorities by showing 100% work in each project on paper.
Talking to the locals, it is learned that some of the projects did not work and the locals do not know anything about it. All the money has been withdrawn by doing nominal work in one or two.
Former chairman of Kakrabunia Union. Jahangir Alam said, “I am now ex. Only the new chairmen can say it well.”
Asked if any work has been done in Kismatpur Girls Secondary School, he said, "Some work has been done.” The principal of Mansurabad Madrasa said that the work of the orphanage is going on. However, no renovation or purchase of furniture was made in the madrasa. The then acting Upazila Project Implementation Officer (PIO) Mohammad Rafiqul Islam said, "There is no complaint in any project, the work has been done properly. Is there any benefit in dealing with the project that is gone?”
However, some work has been done on the projects. Newly joined Upazila Project Implementation Officer (PIO) Khokon Das said, “I am new here. I can't say anything. Sir who was before can talk about the projects. Upazila Nirbahi Officer Tania Ferdous said that if there is any complaint about any project, necessary action will be taken after investigation.
