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The water level in the Teesta River rose sharply on Wednesday following heavy rainfall and increased upstream inflows, approaching the danger level and heightening fears of flooding in low-lying areas along its banks.
Residents of vulnerable char areas have become increasingly anxious as rising water has already begun inundating low-lying croplands, with many fearing further flooding if the river continues to swell.
According to the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), the Teesta’s water level at the Dalia point in Nilphamari was recorded just one centimetre below the danger level at around 6:00 am on Wednesday.
To ease mounting pressure on the river, authorities opened all 44 sluice gates of the Teesta Barrage, the country’s largest irrigation project, allowing excess water to flow downstream.
BWDB officials warned that the river could cross the danger level within the next 24 hours if rainfall continues and upstream inflows remain high.
The authorities urged people living in low-lying and riverine areas to stay alert and prepare for possible flooding, particularly those residing in char settlements and areas vulnerable to river erosion.
Local officials said they are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to take necessary measures should the river overflow its banks.
The latest rise in the Teesta comes amid continued monsoon rains across northern Bangladesh, raising concerns over flash floods and damage to standing crops in riverside communities.
