Most of latrines damaged weeks after construction

More than half of the newly built sanitary latrines meant for improving the former enclave's sanitation in Panchagarh's Boda upazila have been damaged before handing over to the authorities concerned in time.

Funded by Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) has recently set up 30 latrines at Puthimari village, one of the former Indian enclaves, in the upazila.

In June this year, LGED had floated a tender to set up 30 latrines using Iron pillar, plastic pane, corrugated iron sheets and other materials.

Contractor Ashraful Islam got the tender with lowest cost of Tk 14,000 for construction of each latrine which was supposed to be completed within June 30.

As the contractor used sub standard materials most of the latrines have either developed cracks or badly damaged before handing it over in time, alleged Mintu Mia, a resident of the village.

Besides, several villagers alleged that due to their ignorance, the contractor collected money and different materials from several beneficiaries.

One of the beneficiaries, Yakub Ali, said the contractor took money from him for buying cement bags and iron rods.  

Boda LGED Sub-Assistant Engineer Nazrul Islam, also the project supervisor, said we have already asked the contractor to reconstruct the latrines for failing to deliver quality works.

Contacted, Boda Upazila Nirbahi Officer Abu Awal said after investigation stern action would be taken against the contractor concerned if found responsible for the sub standard work.