Rakib Uddin; CTG

Despite being one of Chattogram’s most anticipated development projects, the Karnaphuli Marine Drive remains unfinished after more than eight years since its inception. Approved by ECNEC in 2017, the 8.3 km Kalurghat-Chaktai road and embankment construction project began in January 2018 with an initial budget of Tk 2,310 crore. As of mid-2025, the estimated cost has ballooned to Tk 2,779 crore—yet around 20% of the work is still incomplete.

Field inspections reveal alarming irregularities in construction quality, sparking serious concerns about the project’s sustainability. Unprocessed sand laced with polythene, clay, and solid waste is being used for embankment work. Instead of high-grade reinforcement, 16/20 mm rods are reportedly being used. The road carpeting uses cracked, dusty stones, and several areas show visible cracks due to improper sand bedding beneath the concrete blocks.

The implementing agency (CDA), has come under severe scrutiny. Project Director Rajib Dash, Coordinating Officer Md. Jasim, and other officials are facing allegations of corruption and mismanagement. According to Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) sources, formal complaints have been lodged, and the project is currently under the ACC’s watchlist.

Particular concern is the involvement of Spectra Engineers Ltd. A contractor blacklisted by the Roads and Highways Department due to previous quality violations. Nevertheless, the firm continues to operate with impunity under this flagship project. On-site workers, speaking anonymously, allege that substandard materials are knowingly being used under the supervision of site in-charge Ashim Kumar Babu. Spectra’s political connections reportedly shield the company from accountability.

The entire project is a showcase of mismanagement, said a local resident, Abdul Karim, who lives near Chaktai. “The road quality speaks for itself. They are playing with public money.”

Multiple workers claimed they were instructed to separate visibly poor-quality materials only when journalists or government officials were nearby. In some cases, they were made to clear polythene from construction sand in front of cameras to present a cleaner image of the site.

There are also allegations of intimidation. Locals claim CDA officials, particularly coordinator Md. Jasim, tried to silence community complaints by using pressure and threats. “We were told not to speak to outsiders,” said one laborer. “They warned us against taking photos or talking to the press.”

The project’s surroundings—with scenic river views—hold the potential to attract tourism. Yet, inadequate lighting, lack of security, and absence of tourist facilities render the area deserted after sunset.

Urban planners say the project could have become a model for waterfront development in Bangladesh. Instead, it stands today as a symbol of inefficiency, corruption, and the cost of weak oversight.

Attempts to reach Project Director Rajib Dash for comment were unsuccessful. He did not respond to multiple phone calls.