Serious allegations of corruption, irregularities, and substandard work have surfaced in several major projects under Dhaka WASA, including the Padma (Jashaldia) Water Treatment Plant and the Rampura-Kamalapur Pumping Station. Official documents indicate engineering flaws, excessive spending, and personal enrichment by key officials, notably former managing director Taqsem A Khan and engineer Rafiqul Islam. Despite complaints lodged with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Local Government Ministry, investigations were reportedly suppressed during their tenure.

The Padma-Jashaldia project, costing about Tk 3,800 crore, was designed to supply 450 million liters of water daily but currently delivers only 230 million liters. ACC records describe both the Padma and the Tk 400 crore Rampura-Kamalapur projects as failures due to widespread corruption. Expert opinions from BUET highlighted the use of substandard K-9 class pipes instead of the more suitable K-10 class, raising concerns about quality and accountability.

Dhaka WASA’s debt has reportedly reached Tk 25,000 crore, while water prices have been increased 16 times. Despite these hikes, residents continue to complain about poor water quality and irregular supply.