Photo : Messenger
After four and a half years since the issuance of the work order, the construction of the Mujibnagar Model Mosque in Meherpur remains stalled due to challenges in land acquisition.
While district and upazila model mosques in Sadar and Gangni have been successfully completed, Mujibnagar's model mosque, significant in its historical context of the Liberation War, remains conspicuously absent.
The initiative falls under the larger project titled "Establishment of 560 Model Mosques and Islamic Cultural Centers in each district and upazila." The work order for the Mujibnagar Upazila Model Mosque was issued on September 18, 2019, with a memorandum number 1759. A contract was signed with Galaxy Associates on June 20 of the same year by the Meherpur Public Works Department, estimating the project cost at Tk 12 crore 59 lakh 16 thousand 421. A security deposit of Tk 62 lakh 95 thousand 821 was paid by the contractor according to the contract terms.
Despite efforts initiated by the former Deputy Commissioner Md Ataul Gani in January 2020, requesting land acquisition from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, progress has been impeded. Challenges arose concerning the earmarked land for the mosque's construction, leading to delays in acquiring the necessary plots. Subsequent requests by Mohammad Monsur Alam Khan, the former deputy commissioner, for the allocation of funds for land acquisition were acknowledged, yet tangible progress remains elusive.
The prolonged delay has not only left the local populace awaiting the commencement of mosque construction but has also inflicted financial losses upon the contractor, Galaxy Associates. Requests for expediting the process have been made to relevant authorities, including the Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department, yielding no substantial advancements.
Despite concerted efforts by stakeholders such as the Deputy Director of Meherpur Islamic Foundation and Zakir Hossain Khan representing Galaxy Associates, challenges persist. Hasanuzzaman Laltu, a local entrepreneur, expressed dismay over the delay, stressing the significance of expediting the mosque's construction. Similarly, local resident Yamin Hasan lamented the prolonged wait, emphasizing the urgency of land acquisition to commence construction promptly.
District Commissioner Md Shamim Hasan cited complications arising from conflicting interests of landowners, hindering the acquisition process. Project Director Md. Najibar Rahman reiterated the necessity of land acquisition, expressing continued efforts to expedite the process, with a scheduled meeting on April 22 to address the issue.
The delayed construction of the Mujibnagar Model Mosque underscores the importance of resolving bureaucratic hurdles to fulfill the aspirations of the community awaiting its completion.
Messenger/Fameema
