Sherpur faces flood threat as river water levels rise

Persistent heavy rainfall in Meghalaya and Assam, coupled with occasional showers over the past four days, has led to a rapid rise in river water levels in Sherpur district. The Chellakhali River has already exceeded the danger level, causing concerns about flooding in low-lying areas.

According to the latest information from the Water Development Board at 10.00am on Tuesday (May 20), the Chellakhali River is flowing 106 centimeters above the danger level. At 10.00pm last night, the water level was 39 centimeters above the danger mark. Although it decreased slightly overnight, heavy rain and increased upstream rainfall from early morning caused the water level to rise again.

Additionally, the rising water of the Someshwari River has entered low-lying areas near the under-construction Chapatali Bridge, damaging several nearby shops.

According to the Water Development Board’s data at 9.00am on Tuesday, the water level of the Bhogai River at Nakugaon point is 379 centimeters below the danger mark, 257 centimeters below at Nalitabari point, and 687 centimeters below at the Old Brahmaputra point.

Meanwhile, the Disaster Management Department has issued a warning that low-lying areas of the district may be temporarily flooded until May 20, which could cause significant damage to people’s lives and agriculture. In this situation, the district agriculture department has advised farmers to harvest mature paddy quickly and store it in higher places. Miking has also started in vulnerable areas to alert residents.

Jhenaigati Upazila Executive Officer Md. Ashraful Alam Rasel said, “The rise in water level is due to rainfall and upstream inflow. Nevertheless, the situation remains under control, and the administration has implemented all necessary measures.”