A former Mujib Killa in Alokdia, Shibaloy has allegedly become a gathering place for drug users and gamblers instead of serving its intended disaster-related purpose. The facility, now called a disaster shelter after a name change following the fall of the Awami League government, was built about five years ago at a cost of nearly Tk7 crore, according to the report.

District disaster and relief office sources said the facility was funded by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief to house livestock during floods and to be used for social events at other times. Local residents reportedly do not know the project’s purpose, while the building has remained largely unused and poorly maintained, with rubbish and damaged items inside.

Alokdia Union Parishad member Motaleb Hossain said he had heard of drug use, gambling and other alleged antisocial activity at the centre. The report said several people were seen using drugs inside. Manikganj district relief, rehabilitation and disaster management officer Lutfar Rahman said the site is no longer called Mujib Killa and is now named a disaster shelter.