Serious allegations of irregularities and corruption have surfaced in a Tk 680 crore riverbank protection project in Jhalakathi, implemented by the Bangladesh Water Development Board. The 13.2-kilometer project, aimed at protecting areas along the Sugandha River, reportedly used substandard sand, low-quality geo-bags, and improper cement ratios in block construction. Following complaints, one site officer was withdrawn, and low-quality materials were officially rejected. Despite these actions, locals claim that the rejected sand remains on-site and that geo-bags were not placed in the most erosion-prone areas. Officials admit to manpower shortages and delays in supervision, while contractors cite logistical issues. The project, approved by ECNEC and scheduled for completion in June 2027, has seen work start on only half of its 34 packages, raising concerns about transparency and oversight in public infrastructure spending.