GAIBANDHA, Apr 25: Government-installed concrete blocks meant to protect vulnerable riverbanks in Saghata Upazila of Gaibandha are reportedly being removed and used for private construction, raising alarm among local residents over the renewed threat of erosion along the Jamuna River.
According to locals, a significant number of cement concrete (CC) blocks had been placed in the Chinirpotol area under Ward No. 9 of Ghoghadhoh Union as part of a riverbank protection initiative implemented by the Water Development Board (WDB).
The project aimed to prevent erosion through protective pitching, particularly in areas considered highly vulnerable during the monsoon season.
However, allegations have emerged that several influential individuals in the locality dismantled portions of the protective structure and transported the blocks for personal use.
Residents claim the removed materials are now being used in the construction of private houses, undermining the very purpose of the government-funded project.
Among those accused are Samitan, 70, wife of Abdul Karim of Chinirpotol village; Abdul Momin, 45, son of late Tashlim Bepari; and Md Mofizul, 40. Locals said Samitan owns approximately six decimals of recorded land, where construction work is currently underway using the allegedly removed blocks.
A recent visit to the site revealed visible gaps in the protective structure, with several sections appearing weakened due to the removal of blocks. Residents fear that these exposed areas could become the first points of collapse once the monsoon sets in and river currents intensify.
"The blocks were placed here to protect our homes and land from erosion. Now, parts of the protection system are gone. If the river hits hard this year, we will be the first victims," said a local resident, expressing concern over the situation.
In addition to increasing erosion risks, locals reported that the removal of blocks has disrupted movement along certain stretches of the riverbank, making it difficult for people to commute or carry out daily activities in the area.
Residents also voiced frustration over what they described as the misuse of public resources. They alleged that despite the government spending crores of taka on river protection projects, such efforts are being undermined by the unauthorized removal and use of construction materials.
"This is public property. It was meant to safeguard the community, not to be used for private benefit," said another resident.
They have called for immediate intervention by the district and upazila administration, urging authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations, recover the removed blocks, and take legal action against those responsible.
Efforts to reach officials concerned for comment were unsuccessful.
The incident has intensified concerns among residents about the vulnerability of riverbank protection systems and accountability in managing public development projects.
With the monsoon season approaching, locals fear that any further delay in addressing the issue could lead to severe erosion, threatening homes, agricultural land, and livelihoods in the area.
