Due to continuous upstream runoff and prolonged rainfall, the water level of the Teesta River has started to rise, raising concerns over potential flooding in the river-adjacent areas of Lalmonirhat district.
According to the Water Development Board, as of 6:00 PM on Tuesday (29 July), the water level at the Teesta’s Dalia point was recorded at 52.15 meters, which is exactly at the danger level.
At the same time, the water level at the Kaunia point was measured at 28.72 meters, which is 58 centimeters below the danger level of 29.30 meters. Meanwhile, the Dharla River at Shimulbari point was flowing 197 centimeters below the danger level.
Earlier in the afternoon at 3:00 PM, the Teesta’s Dalia point was 22 centimeters below the danger mark, indicating a significant rise of water level within just three hours. At that time, the Kaunia point was recorded 63 centimeters below the danger level.
The rise in the Teesta’s water has led to concerns of possible flooding in the low-lying areas of Patgram, Hatibandha, Kaliganj, Aditmari, and Sadar upazilas of Lalmonirhat. Areas at risk include Dahagram, Goddimari, Dowani, Choyani, Saniyazan, Singamari, Sindurna, Holdibari, Dowabari, Votmari, Shoilmari, Nohali, Mohishkhocha, Gobordhon, Kalmati, Bahadurpara, Palashi, Folimari, Khuniagachh, Kulaghat, Mogholhat, Rajpur, Borobari, and Gokunda.
Sunil Kumar Roy, Executive Engineer of the Lalmonirhat Water Development Board, stated that the Teesta may cross the danger level within the next 24 hours. However, he reassured that the situation is unlikely to lead to prolonged flooding. He further noted that the river could flow 20 to 25 centimeters above the danger level overnight.
