The Kachua Upazila administration in Bagerhat has returned Tk 34.38 lakh to the government treasury after completing a canal re-excavation and renovation project at a cost significantly below the allocated budget, setting an example of transparency and prudent use of public funds. The project, which involved the re-excavation and renovation of two canals in Gopalpur and Moghia unions, was completed at a total cost of Tk 4,284,843, well below the allocated Tk 7,733,142. The remaining Tk 3,438,299 was returned to the government treasury through Kachua Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Ali Hasan.
The project aimed to improve water drainage, boost agricultural production, reduce waterlogging during the monsoon, and ensure irrigation during the dry season. It included the re-excavation of a one-kilometre canal from Daritana to the Baleshwar River connection and another one-kilometre stretch of the Kathalia Canal from Kundu Bari in Moghia Union to the residence of Swapan Majhi. Additionally, 800 trees of different species were planted along both banks of the canals to help protect the environment. Pipe culverts and wooden bridges were also constructed to ensure uninterrupted water flow and facilitate local communication.
Upazila Project Implementation Officer Sudev Krishna highlighted that the project was carried out under the direct supervision of UNO Md. Ali Hasan, with strict adherence to quality standards, cost control, and government guidelines throughout the implementation process. "Proper supervision enabled us to complete the work without compromising quality while avoiding unnecessary expenditure, allowing a substantial amount of public money to be saved and returned to the treasury," he said.
Local residents and farmers welcomed the initiative, stating that the restored canals are expected to improve irrigation, enhance agricultural productivity, and ease waterlogging in the area. They also described the return of the unspent funds as a commendable example of transparency, accountability, and efficient public fund management in local administration.
This project not only addressed critical local infrastructure needs but also demonstrated a model of fiscal responsibility and effective governance. The success of this initiative could serve as a blueprint for similar projects across the region, promoting both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.
