The Teesta River was flowing above the danger level in Lalmonirhat on Wednesday as heavy rainfall and upstream runoff continued to swell rivers in northern Bangladesh, raising fears of flash flooding within the next 48 hours.
According to the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), the river was flowing one centimetre above the danger mark at the Dalia point of the Teesta Barrage at 3pm.
BWDB officials said the water level at Dalia was recorded at 52.21 metres against the danger level of 52.15 metres. Water has already started entering low-lying areas along the river.
Meanwhile, the Dharla River was flowing at 29.48 metres at the Shimulbari point, remaining 1.39 metres below its danger level of 30.87 metres.
Local residents said floodwaters have begun inundating homesteads and low-lying land along the Teesta. However, they noted that significant seasonal crops are not currently under cultivation, reducing the risk of major agricultural losses.
The BWDB warned that continued upstream inflow and heavy rainfall could cause further rises in river water levels across northern districts, potentially triggering a short-term flood situation over the next 48 hours.
Executive Engineer of the Lalmonirhat Water Development Board Sunil Kumar said the rising water levels were being driven by upstream runoff and persistent rainfall.
He said the situation was being monitored round the clock and that necessary preparations had been taken to deal with any possible flooding.
