In a decisive move by the interim administration, the government has formally removed Engineer Md. Abdus Salam Bepari from his position as the Managing Director of the Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (WASA). The dismissal, executed on Sunday, 8th March, follows a period of intense scrutiny regarding his appointment and a history of alleged financial irregularities.
According to sources within the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development, and Co-operatives, Bepari was summoned to sign a prepared resignation letter. This administrative manoeuvre effectively ends a controversial tenure that had drawn widespread criticism from transparency advocates and civil society groups alike.
Table of Contents
A Controversial Appointment
The appointment of Engineer Bepari had been a point of contention since its inception. On 11th November last year, a notification from the Local Government Division confirmed his elevation to the top post. At the time, he was serving as the Additional Chief Engineer of the organisation.
Critics argued that his promotion was “hurriedly processed” during the closing stages of the previous administration’s term, bypassing standard vetting procedures. The haste with which he was installed led many to question the underlying motives of the appointing authorities, especially given the sensitive nature of Dhaka’s water management infrastructure.
Allegations of Financial Malfeasance
The primary catalyst for his removal appears to be a track record of alleged corruption linked to massive infrastructure projects. During his previous roles at WASA, Bepari was a central figure in three major initiatives that saw an estimated expenditure of 5,000 crore BDT.
Internal investigations and departmental cases had previously been filed against him, yet he managed to ascend to the highest executive office within the agency. The discrepancy between his disciplinary record and his professional advancement became a symbol of systemic governance issues within the utility provider.
Overview of Associated Projects and Costs
| Project Scope | Estimated Expenditure | Primary Allegation |
| Major Infrastructure Project A | 2,200 Crore BDT | Procurement Irregularities |
| Expansion Project B | 1,500 Crore BDT | Cost Overruns & Mismanagement |
| Distribution Network C | 1,300 Crore BDT | Improper Tender Allocation |
| Total Oversight Value | 5,000 Crore BDT | Systemic Graft |
Broader Implications for WASA
The removal of the Managing Director is seen as a necessary “house-cleaning” exercise by the current government. Dhaka WASA has long been plagued by complaints regarding water quality, billing discrepancies, and inefficient sewage management. By removing an official with a clouded reputation, the Ministry signals a shift toward accountability.
Government officials have indicated that a search for a technically proficient and “untainted” successor will begin immediately to restore public confidence in the capital’s water supply system.