Teesta River Nears Danger Level Amid Upstream Rush

The water level of the Teesta River, which flows through the northern district of Nilphamari, has risen significantly due to an influx of water from upstream hilly regions. On Saturday morning, the water at the Dalia Division’s Doani point in Lalmonirhat was recorded flowing just below the designated danger mark. This sudden surge has triggered fears of potential flooding among the residents living along the riverbanks and low-lying shoals (chars).

According to official data provided by the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre of the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) in the Dalia Division, the water level has fluctuated continuously over the last twenty-four hours. On Friday evening at 6:00 pm, the water level at the Doani point was measured at 51.95 centimetres. By 6:00 am on Saturday, the level had risen by 15 centimetres, reaching 52.10 centimetres, which brought it within a mere 5 centimetres of the danger threshold. However, by 9:00 am, the water level receded by 8 centimetres, settling at 52.02 centimetres. At this specific monitoring point, the official danger level is established at 52.15 centimetres.

The precise measurements and fluctuations recorded at the Doani point have been detailed by authorities to map out the river’s behaviour during this upstream surge.

Teesta River Water Level Measurements at Doani Point

The rising water levels have started to impact the local geography, particularly within Dimla Upazila. Rabiul Islam, the Chairman of the Tepakharibari Union Parishad in Dimla, stated that some of the lower-lying areas have already been inundated due to the rising tide. He noted, however, that the floodwaters have not yet breached or entered the residential homes located within the riverine char areas. Local inhabitants remain concerned that if the upstream inflow resumes or escalates, a full-scale flood could submerge their communities at any moment.

Providing an administrative perspective on the situation, Amitabh Chowdhury, the Executive Engineer of the BWDB’s Dalia Division, clarified that while the water levels had peaked earlier in the morning due to the upstream rush, they have since begun a steady decline. To safely manage the water pressure and mitigate flood risks, authorities have opened all 44 sluice gates of the Teesta Barrage. The Executive Engineer assured that the overall situation at the barrage remains stable and under control for the time being.