Teesta River surpasses danger level, floods low-lying areas

Heavy rainfall over the past several days, combined with runoff from upstream hills, has caused the water level of the Teesta River to rise significantly, leading to flooding in low-lying areas.

At 6 AM on Wednesday, water levels at the Teesta Barrage—the country’s largest irrigation project—were recorded at 52.22 meters, exceeding the danger level by 7 centimeters. By 9 AM, the water was still flowing 5 centimeters above the danger mark. The designated danger level at this location is 52.15 meters.

Tahidul Islam, Assistant Engineer of the Water Division in Dalia, confirmed that the rise is due to heavy upstream rainfall and hill runoff. "Several low-lying and char villages have already been submerged. We are closely monitoring the situation with concern that the water level may rise further by evening," he said.

In response, authorities have opened 44 sluice gates at the Teesta Barrage to help control the floodwaters.

Flooding has affected several areas including Nilphamari’s Dimlar region—East Chatnai, Khagakhari Bari, Tepakhari Bari, Khalisha Chapani, Jhuna Gach Chapani, Goyabari—as well as various unions in Jaldhaka: Golmunda, Dauya Bari, Shaulmari, and Kaimari. Additionally, riverbank lowlands in Rangpur’s Gangachara, Kaunia, Pirgacha, Lalmonirhat, and Kurigram districts have experienced water intrusion.

Amitabh Chowdhury, Executive Engineer of Dalia Division, emphasized the ongoing efforts to manage the situation: "Since early Wednesday morning, the water level has remained above the danger mark. We have kept 44 sluice gates open to regulate the flow and mitigate flooding."

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents in affected areas to stay alert and take necessary precautions.