The Teesta River was flowing above the danger level in Lalmonirhat on Wednesday as heavy rainfall and upstream water flow continued to raise river levels in northern Bangladesh, triggering fears of flash floods within the next 48 hours.
According to the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), the Teesta was flowing 1cm 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 had begun inundating homesteads and low-lying areas along the Teesta. However, they said the impact on agriculture was likely to remain limited as major seasonal crops were not currently under cultivation.
The BWDB warned that continued upstream inflow and heavy rainfall could further raise river levels across northern districts, potentially creating a short-term flood situation within the next 48 hours.
Lalmonirhat Water Development Board Executive Engineer Sunil Kumar said the rising water levels were being caused by upstream runoff and persistent rainfall.
He said authorities were monitoring the situation round the clock and had taken necessary preparations to tackle any possible flooding.
