Concrete blocks made for dumping in the vulnerable area are lying near the site. WDB sources said the authorities were supposed to release the allocated fund of Tk 13.40 crore in the current financial year to dump concrete blocks and do other renovation work along 500 meters of the bank in Baguria and Sayedpur on priority basis but they did not release the total fund.

The sources said the work was suspended as partial dumping of concrete blocks will not be effective.

"We dropped the programme for the time being and will begin work next year, if funds are available", said the Gaibandha WDB Executive Engineer when contacted.

Meanwhile, a team of IWTA last week started 'water model test' in the project area and it will submit a report on sustainable bank protection, he added.

As WDB failed to start the work, erosion by Brahmaputra has taken an alarming turn in Baguria and Sayedpur areas following increase of water level, locals said.

Unabated erosion is threatening Gaibandha town, which is now only three and half kilometres from the erosion point.

The erosion has intensified along the western bank of the river. At least 300 houses were devoured by the river in Fulchari, Shaghata and Gaibandha Sadar upazilas in about a week.

The Katlamari Government Primary School in Fulchari collapsed into the river in a couple of days. People in vulnerable areas were seen shifting their houses.

The erosion-hit villages include Hashdhara, Kharjani, Chithulia Digor, Mollar Char, Baguria, Sayedpur, Balashi and Khatiyamari.