A multistory building under construction in Rajapur, Jhalokathi, has been accused of encroaching on government canal land. Local residents allege that construction work has continued in defiance of repeated stop-work orders.
The allegations emerged from local residents during an on-the-ground visit Wednesday, August 18, to the construction site north of the bridge adjacent to the upazila headquarters’ fresh market.
The building is reportedly being constructed by Md Abul Kalam Azad, son of the late Muzaffar Howlader of Mathbari union. He currently resides in the Bagri Mridha Bari area.
Local residents allege that when the administration measured the land during construction, a section on the building’s southern side was identified as falling on government land. Authorities subsequently ordered that the balcony on that section be cut off and the roof demolished to vacate the government land.
However, residents later alleged that the balcony had again been extended onto the government canal land, along with floor casting, construction of stairs connecting to the bridge, and fencing. Residents further claim that the rebar from the previously cut balcony was welded back together under cover of darkness and recast.
Local resident Md Shahidul Islam said: “The matter should be properly investigated and necessary action taken.”
Denying the allegation of encroaching on government land, Abul Kalam Azad said: “I occupy less land than what I purchased. I laid brick soling on government land for passage and installed stairs for going up and down.”
Rajapur Assistant Commissioner (Land) Md Shamim Reza Sajib said: “A government surveyor will measure the area soon. If evidence is found that construction has encroached on the government canal’s land, legal action will be taken.”
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report