Photo : BSS

BAGERHAT, July 22, 2026 (BSS) - 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. 

According to project office sources, the project involved the re-excavation and renovation of two canals, each one kilometre long, in Gopalpur and Moghia unions to improve water drainage, boost agricultural production, reduce waterlogging during the monsoon and ensure irrigation during the dry season.

The project was allocated Tk 7,733,142, of which Tk 4,284,843 was spent. The remaining Tk 3,438,299 was returned to the government treasury through Kachua Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Ali Hasan after the work was completed.

The project 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.

In addition to the excavation work, 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 said 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, saying 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.