Flood fears grow as Teesta flows 13cm above danger level in Lalmonirhat

The River Teesta was flowing 13 centimetres above the danger level at Dalia point on Wednesday morning following heavy rainfall and an upstream surge from India, raising fears of flooding in Lalmonirhat's low-lying areas.

According to the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), the river has been rising steadily since Tuesday night. At 9am on Wednesday, the water level at Dalia, the control point of the Teesta Barrage, stood 13cm above the danger mark.

The rising water has already inundated roads and croplands in several char areas, while low-lying settlements along the river have gone under water. In many char villages, boats and makeshift rafts have become the only means of transport.

Residents said water has entered several homes, leaving families, livestock, children and elderly people stranded. They also reported an increase in snakes and other venomous creatures in the flooded areas.

Tasar Uddin, a resident of Patikapara char, said water had been rising continuously since Tuesday afternoon and had already entered several houses. "The water pressure suggests a major flood may occur," he said.

Another resident, Monir Hossain of Mahishkhocha char, expressed concern over the condition of flood control embankments, alleging that inadequate maintenance has left them vulnerable to erosion and flood damage. 

Lalmonirhat BWDB Executive Engineer Sunil Kumar Roy said authorities have advised people living along the riverbanks and in char areas to remain alert and take necessary precautions as the water level continues to rise.