Heavy rainfall over the past few days and upstream water surges have caused the water level of the Teesta River to rise at the Kaunia point in Rangpur.
The rising water level near the danger mark at Kaunia point has created a sense of panic among the riverbank residents.
Meanwhile, the authorities have opened 44 sluice gates of the Teesta Barrage at Dalia.
According to the Rangpur Water Development Board, as of 3pm on Friday, the water flow of the Teesta River at Kaunia point was recorded at 28.63 centimeters, just 0.12 centimeters below the danger level.
Simultaneously, at 3pm, the water flow at Dalia point, part of the country’s largest irrigation project, was recorded at 51.30 centimeters, 0.85 centimeters below the danger level.
Rabiul Islam, Executive Engineer of the Rangpur Water Development Board, said due to the continuous rain and upstream surges, the water level at Dalia point began rising from Thursday afternoon. To manage the situation, all 44 gates of the barrage have been kept open. Although the water level at Dalia point started to decrease slightly by Friday afternoon, the water at Kaunia point is still flowing close to the danger mark.
Constant monitoring of the riverbank conditions in the downstream areas of Rangpur district is ongoing, he added.
He said, so far, there is no indication of flooding. However, if there is significant rainfall in India, the upstream surge may increase the water level further here.
Ansar Ali, Chairman of Balapara Union Parishad in Kaunia Upazila, said, “The water level has been rising rapidly since early morning. The increase in water levels before the monsoon has caused anxiety among residents of riverbank and char areas.”
Mozzafar, a resident of Char Ganai village, expressed his fear, stating, "The river's water has been rising since dawn. We are worried. If there is a flood before Eid, we will be in great trouble."
Abbas Ali from the same area mentioned that the sudden rise in water level has raised concerns about the safety of livestock.
Kaunia Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mahidul Haque confirmed the rise in the Teesta’s water level. He assured that although there is no immediate threat of flooding, all necessary government preparations are in place to mitigate any potential damage.
