Teesta swells above danger mark, raising flood threat downstream

The Teesta River has risen above the danger level at the Dalia Barrage point following fresh upstream inflows, triggering renewed fears of flooding in downstream char and low-lying areas.

After receding slightly over the past few days, the river began rising again on Thursday. At 6:00pm, the water level at the Dalia point of the Teesta Barrage was just 1 centimetre below the danger mark. Within three hours, it had climbed 3 centimetres above the danger level.

According to Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) data recorded at 9:00pm, the river was flowing at 52.18 metres, exceeding the danger level of 52.15 metres.

The sudden rise has heightened anxiety among residents of vulnerable riverside and char areas, many of whom had only recently begun to feel relieved as water levels receded.

Nurul Islam, in-charge of the Dalia Barrage point, said the Teesta's water level was fluctuating due to varying volumes of upstream inflow.

He said the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) is monitoring the situation around the clock and has advised people living in flood-prone areas along the river to remain vigilant.

The BWDB warned that continued heavy rainfall in upstream catchments could push the river level even higher, adding that preparations have already been taken to respond to any potential flood situation.