Online Report : A newly constructed road in Kuakata, modeled after Cox’s Bazar`s Marine Drive, partially collapsed on Wednesday; just days before its official opening, due to tidal surges triggered by adverse weather.

The 2-kilometre stretch, built at an estimated cost of Tk 4.86 crore, began caving in around 10:00 AM as high tides battered the coastline. Several sections between Zero Point and the eastern end of the road gave way, resulting in flooding in nearby areas, including a police outpost, Sardar Market and a popular street food area locally known as Fuchka Market.

Tourist police, assisted by local volunteers, swiftly evacuated tourists from the area using loudspeakers to warn of potential danger.

Locals have attributed the collapse to substandard construction and poor oversight. “Low-grade materials were used and there was no proper monitoring of the work,” alleged a resident.

Many now fear that without urgent intervention, the entire road could be lost.

Abul Bashar, a resident of the area, expressed concern over worsening conditions. “With the monsoon approaching, the sea will grow even more aggressive. If immediate repairs aren`t made, the damage will only increase,” he said.

The road, a Kuakata Municipality project launched in 2024, was designed to enhance tourism and protect the coastal area.

However, complaints about construction quality have persisted from the project`s early days.

The collapse coincided with tidal surges caused by a deep depression that had moved inland from the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh Meteorological Department had earlier warned of water levels rising by 2 to 4 feet in coastal regions.

In response, four coastal districts, including Patuakhali, were placed under local alert level three.

Assistant Superintendent of Tourist Police Habibur Rahman confirmed that precautionary measures were underway. “We’re relocating people to prevent accidents during this period of rough weather,” he said.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Robiul Islam noted that after the appointment of new municipal administrator, the final bill for the road construction remained unpaid.

He added that compensation would be sought for the damages, and necessary actions would be taken to address the situation.

Meanwhile, the tidal surge has wreaked broader havoc in the region.

Embankments at 11 points across four upazilas in Patuakhali have broken, flooding low-lying areas and affecting more than 20,000 residents.

Over 100 fish farms have been submerged, causing significant economic losses.