Homes at Ashrayan Project become dilapidated

The barrack houses constructed under the Ashrayan project in Naib Pole area, Char Fasson Upazila of Bhola, have been left in a state of disrepair for 23 years, creating dire living conditions for the 40 poor families allocated these homes.

Built on July 16, 1998, under the supervision of the Navy, the houses now teeter precariously on crumbling cement poles. Originally designed to provide shelter for families who lost their homes, the barrack houses were equipped with two toilets, two baths, and two tube wells. However, over the years, the structures, along with essential facilities, have fallen into a state of disrepair.

During a recent visit to the project, it was evident that the houses were in deplorable condition. The roofs, made of rusted and cracked tin, allowed rainwater to seep through, compelling residents to resort to makeshift solutions using polythene and bricks. Doors and windows, long broken, were being temporarily secured with sacks.

Despite the unsuitable conditions, approximately 220 individuals, including women and children, are still residing in these uninhabitable houses due to the lack of alternative arrangements. The desperate situation has forced six families to abandon the project in search of a more bearable life.

Among the residents is Abul Kalam, who shared the hardships of living in a house rendered uninhabitable by decades of neglect. He described the dilapidated conditions, stating, "Even the cowshed of the mainshya (man) is better than this."

Another resident, Beauty Begum, a mother of three, recounted the challenges of staying in a bed with a leaking roof during the rainy season. She expressed her frustration at the lack of government assistance, stating, "Even though our houses were destroyed ten years ago, they have not been repaired. I have not received any help from the government."

Mayful Begum, a dependent mother-in-law, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the dire need for repairs as her family of five struggles to cope with a deteriorating living situation.

Jasim Uddin, the General Secretary of Barrack House, emphasized the urgency of repairs, especially with the approaching disaster season. He lamented the lack of facilities and educational support, urging the government to take action.

Project Implementation Officer Anisur Rahman acknowledged the pressing need for repairs, emphasizing that government intervention is crucial to bring about positive changes.

Upazila Executive Officer Naureen Haque revealed that proposals for the renovation of the old shelter project houses had been submitted in the past. She pledged to address the issue, stating, "If it is blocked, the unfit houses for the shelters will be repaired."