Photo: BSS

GAIBANDHA, July 22, 2026 (BSS) - The district administration has returned a surplus of Taka 4,190,828 to the government treasury after successfully completing the re-excavation of the Nakai Canal in Palashbari upazila at a cost lower than the allocated budget.

The project was implemented as part of the government's nationwide canal excavation and re-excavation programme aimed at improving agricultural productivity, easing waterlogging, and expanding irrigation facilities.

According to the Upazila Project Implementation Office (PIO), the government allocated Taka 20,603,080 for the project. Of this, Taka 16,412,252 was spent on the re-excavation of 4.92 kilometres of the Nakai Canal in Harinathpur union. The remaining money was deposited into the state treasury in accordance with government financial regulations.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Aminul Islam Bulbul said the project was completed with quality workmanship while keeping costs below the allocated budget through proper planning, efficient supervision, and coordination among the relevant authorities.

Work on the project began on May 12 this year. Officials monitored construction quality and expenditures throughout the implementation period to ensure transparency and cost efficiency. After settling all expenses, including labour wages, machinery, transportation, and other operational costs, the remaining funds were returned to the government.

The re-excavation has restored the canal's natural water flow, improved drainage, reduced waterlogging during the monsoon season, and enhanced irrigation opportunities for surrounding farmland, according to project officials.

Residents said the canal now drains water from more than 20 nearby wetlands (beels), significantly reducing waterlogging and allowing farmers to cultivate Aman paddy in areas that were previously unsuitable. They also said that the restored canal is expected to improve fish habitats and contribute positively to the local economy.

Upazila Project Implementation Officer Abdus Salam said no public funds had been wasted during the project, adding that all surplus money was officially returned to the government treasury through the prescribed procedures.

UNO Aminul Islam Bulbul said public funds are a trust of the people and must be spent with the highest level of responsibility and accountability.

"After completing all necessary work, the remaining funds were returned to the state treasury. Ensuring the proper use of public resources is essential for good governance, and we remain committed to making the best use of every taka allocated for public welfare," he said.