Flood Concerns as Teesta Nears Danger Mark

The water level of the Teesta River has risen significantly following an upstream mountain surge, bringing the river close to its danger level in northern Bangladesh. As of 9:00 am on Saturday, the river was flowing just 13 centimetres below the danger mark at the Dalia-Doyani monitoring point in Lalmonirhat, raising concerns about possible flooding in areas along the riverbanks.

According to the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre of the Dalia Division under the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), the river’s water level has fluctuated noticeably over the past several hours. At 6:00 pm on Friday, the water level at the Doyani point stood at 51.95 centimetres. By 6:00 am on Saturday, it had increased by 15 centimetres to reach 52.10 centimetres.

However, the situation showed signs of improvement later in the morning. At 9:00 am on Saturday, the water level had fallen by 8 centimetres, reaching 52.02 centimetres. The officially designated danger level at the Doyani point is 52.15 centimetres, meaning the river remained 13 centimetres below the threshold despite the earlier rise.

The increase in water levels has affected parts of the low-lying areas adjacent to the Teesta River. Local authorities reported that some inundation had already occurred in vulnerable locations, although residential areas in the riverine chars had not yet been affected.

Rabiul Islam, Chairman of Tepakharibari Union Parishad in Dimla Upazila, said that several low-lying areas were experiencing flooding as water levels continued to rise. He noted, however, that floodwater had not yet entered homes in the char regions. According to him, local residents remain concerned that flooding could occur if the situation deteriorates further.

Officials of the Bangladesh Water Development Board stated that the river’s water level has begun to recede after the initial rise caused by upstream flows. Amitabh Chowdhury, Executive Engineer of the BWDB’s Dalia Division, said that although water levels had increased due to the upstream surge, they were now declining.

To manage the increased flow, all 44 gates of the Teesta Barrage have been kept open. Chowdhury stated that the overall situation remains normal at present.

Teesta Water Level Observations

Key Situation Summary

The latest measurements indicate that although the Teesta River approached its danger level following the upstream mountain surge, water levels began declining by Saturday morning. Authorities continue to monitor the situation while maintaining all barrage gates open to facilitate the passage of excess water through the river system.