In Matlab North of Chandpur, a contractor demolished a fragile culvert during canal excavation and then disappeared, leaving 19 landless families stranded for one and a half years. The culvert, located over a Water Development Board canal in Dubgi village of Gazra Union, was the only access route for residents of a government-funded housing project built in 2019 between Kolakanda and Palalokdi villages. Since its destruction, the families have faced severe hardship, crossing the canal daily using a precariously placed palm tree.

Residents report multiple injuries from falls while attempting to cross, including a woman who broke her leg. A representative from the contractor’s firm, speaking anonymously, claimed their company was not responsible for rebuilding the culvert. Matlab North Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Chengarchar municipal administrator Mahmuda Kulsum Moni said she learned of the issue through the media and promised that the matter would be addressed urgently through the relevant department.

Local authorities have indicated that a new culvert will likely be constructed soon to restore safe access for the affected families.