The water level of the Padma River in Rajshahi is rising steadily due to increased upstream flow, prompting the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) to place the Rajshahi city protection embankment on high alert.
Although the river remains well below the danger level, authorities have intensified monitoring and launched a joint drive with the district administration to remove illegal structures built on the embankment.
Water rises over 2 metres in two weeks
According to the Rajshahi BWDB, the Padma's water level at the Rajshahi point rose from 9.78 metres on July 1 to 11.82 metres on Wednesday, an increase of 2.04 metres in 14 days.
The river level briefly declined between July 7 and July 9 before rising again from July 10.
Abu Hurayra, deputy assistant engineer of the BWDB's City Protection Branch, said the danger level of the Padma at Rajshahi is 18.05 metres.
"Although the water level is rising, it is still about 6.23 metres below the danger level. There is currently no flood risk," he said.
BWDB water gauge reader Enamul Haque said the river level is being monitored around the clock.
Chars partially submerged
A visit to the Padma riverbanks showed that several sandbars (chars) have begun to submerge as water levels continue to rise. Large amounts of silt and debris are also being carried downstream, which local residents say is a sign of heavy upstream flooding.
Boatman Ziaur Rahman of Patulighat said rising river levels are common during the late Ashadh and Shraban months.
Residents of Char Khidirpur and Char Ashariadaha said low-lying parts of the chars have gone underwater, although the main settlements remain unaffected. Many families have begun making preparations to move to safer areas if necessary.
Drive underway to protect embankment
Authorities have launched an eviction drive to remove illegal structures from the Rajshahi city protection embankment to reduce risks during the monsoon.
The operation began in the Keshabpur Dakshinpara T-dam area under the joint supervision of the district administration and the BWDB.
Senior Assistant Commissioner and Executive Magistrate Abhijit Sarkar said action was taken after repeated notices and public announcements failed to persuade occupants to vacate voluntarily.
"The eviction drive will continue along the entire embankment," he said.
BWDB says no reason to panic
Rajshahi BWDB Executive Engineer Md Arifur Rahman Ankur said the city protection embankment remains safe and capable of withstanding any potential flood situation.
"Illegal structures on the embankment pose a significant safety risk, which is why the eviction drive is being carried out in phases," he said.
He added that water levels may continue to rise depending on upstream rainfall, but there is no reason for panic.
"Our officials are on standby to carry out immediate repairs and take preventive measures if any vulnerability is detected along the embankment," he said.
