Sudden rise in water level of Teesta River in Lalmonirhat
Md. Lovlu Sheikh, Lalmonirhat
Due to upstream runoff and Saturday's rainfall, the water level in the Teesta River has risen unexpectedly. Starting from Saturday night, the water level began to increase, reaching a rise of 5 centimeters at the Teesta Barrage point by 9 AM on Sunday.
According to the Dalia Water Development Board, intermittent rain with strong winds affected the Teesta basin on Saturday night. Along with the upstream runoff, the water level in Teesta slightly increased. However, the water is still flowing 140 centimeters below the danger level at the barrage point.
In the dry season, the sudden increase in water levels has brought relief to farmers. Previously, farmers had to irrigate their crops at high costs, but the rising water levels have significantly reduced their irrigation expenses.Farmers from the upstream areas of Teesta, Abdul Gafur and Hossain Ali, mentioned that the rainfall and upstream flow had caused the water levels to rise. On Saturday afternoon, the Teesta Barrage and surrounding areas had turned into barren sandbanks, but by Sunday morning, the river was filled with water, much to the joy of the farmers in the char areas.Amitabh Chowdhury, Executive Engineer of the Dalia Teesta Barrage Project, confirmed the rise in water levels, stating that the water in the Teesta has increased slightly. However, it is still flowing well below the danger level at the barrage point.
