The water level of the Jamuna River is steadily rising due to water coming down from hill slopes and heavy rainfall over the past few days.
On Monday, the water level at the Sirajganj hard point was recorded at 12.55 meters. It has risen by 10cm in the last 24 hours and currently flows 35cm below the danger line, which is set at 12.90 meters.
Meanwhile, the water level at Meghai point in Kazipur was measured at 14.28 meters. This marks an increase of 13cm in 24 hours and the water level is now 52cm below the danger line of 14.80 meters.
Numerous households in the low-lying areas along the Jamuna's banks, including Sirajganj Sadar, Kazipur, Belkuchi, Shahjadpur, and Chauhali upazilas, are experiencing rising waters.
This situation has led to concerns about potential flooding and erosion among the residents living along the riverbanks. Additionally, agricultural lands in these areas are also facing submergence.
Reports indicate that the rising waters have flooded crop fields in villages located in the Char areas of the river, affecting five upazilas in the district. At the same time, water levels are also rising within residential areas.
In areas such as Tekani, Khas Rajbari in Kazipur upazila, Baghutia in Chauhali upazila, and Jalalpur in Shahjadpur, severe river erosion has been observed due to the increased water levels.
Zia Munshi, chairman of the Kawakola union in Sadar upazila, stated: “With water levels rising for the past week, houses in low-lying areas are now being affected. We have urged people in the Char areas to move to safer locations. Our efforts are focused on relocating stranded individuals to secure shelters.”
Ranjit Kumar Sarkar, sub-divisional engineer of the Sirajganj Water Development Board, said: “Persistent heavy rainfall has led to the gradual rise of water levels in the Jamuna over the past week. The water levels are expected to continue rising for a few more days, likely exceeding the danger level. However, the likelihood of severe flooding remains low.”
Aktaruzzaman, district relief and rehabilitation officer, said: “For the ongoing flood situation, we have received a government allocation of 740 tons of rice, Tk20.35 lakh in cash, Tk2 lakh for children, and Tk5 lakh for cow fodder. While the list of affected individuals is currently being prepared, the allocated assistance will be distributed as soon as the list becomes available.”
