Sunamganj residents doubt any beneficial outcome

SYLHET, Feb 20: A number of allegations have been raised in connection with the construction of crop protection embankment in different areas of Sunamganj district.

Union council member Tajuddin and a number of locals from Hajarigaon, Dhanpur, Gonargaon and Mannargaon villages under Mannargaon union of Doarabazar upazila filed a written complaint Monday alleging that some influential people had submitted a scheme of crop protection embankment, which had no need at all. It would be just wasting of public money while causing trouble for Aman farming on the cropland around.

They alleged the said project had been taken up without any consultation with locals although it is mandatory under the provisions set by the WDB. It has already been sanctioned Taka one million while the earthen embankment would cause serious water stagnation during Aman season while there would be no benefit for the Boro crops too. The farmers would be badly hit by the embankment is constructed, they apprehended in the complainant.

This is why the scheme should be cancelled and be replaced by another on nearby location for reconstruction of embankment on the riverbank, the locals suggested. That would benefit saving Boro croplands around.

The locals first submitted the complaint with the UNO of Doarabazar and then it was submitted with the deputy commissioner Monday. Another allegation was raised over construction of an embankment at Dekhar haor of Sunamganj Sadar, two days ago. Both the complaints would soon be enquired and steps be taken, said an official on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, a team of senior officials from the ministry of water resources visited two construction sites in Derai upazila on Monday.

The officials include deputy secretary Abdul Islam, WDB Superintending Engineer Asaf Uddin Sheikh and WDB executive engineer, Sunamganj, Abu Baker Siddique. During the visit the officials assured actions would be taken for any misappropriation on the embankment work.

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