Teesta Nears Danger Mark, Flood Threat Worries Locals

Heavy rainfall and upstream runoff have pushed the Teesta River in Lalmonirhat close to its danger level, raising fears of flooding in low-lying areas along the river’s left bank.

The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre has cautioned that water levels could rise further over the next 72 hours.

At 6:00 PM Friday, the Teesta Barrage at Dalia Point, Bangladesh’s largest irrigation project, recorded a water level of 52.12 metres, just 3 centimetres below the danger mark of 52.15 metres.

Residents reported that rising waters have already submerged fish farms, paddy fields, vegetable plots, and riverside roads, forcing locals to use boats for movement.

Tamijar Rahman of Dauyamari village said, “The river has been rising since noon. Several homes are already flooded, and the situation is worsening.”

Abdur Rashid of Gobardhan village added, “Roads in the char areas are under water, and many fish ponds and paddy fields have been lost. Flooding is a real concern.”

Amitabh Chowdhury, Executive Engineer of the Dalia Water Development Board, said, “The rise is due to heavy rainfall and upstream hill runoff. Water levels may continue to increase over the next three days, but no major flood is expected yet. We are monitoring the situation closely.”