Red alert issued as Tista River flows above danger level

A red alert has been issued in Lalmonirhat as the water level of the Tista River rose 20 centimeters above the danger mark, following heavy rainfall and flash floods in Sikkim and other neighboring Indian states. According to the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), the river was flowing at 52.35 cm at the Dalia point of the Tista Barrage as of 8:30pm on Sunday -20 cm higher than the danger level. The sudden surge has raised fears of flooding in low-lying areas along the riverbanks.

To manage the rising water pressure, all 44 gates of the Tista Barrage have been opened. However, officials have warned that the adjacent flood bypass road may be at risk of damage due to the high water flow.

"The water level has increased by 82 centimeters in the past 24 hours yesterday due to heavy upstream rainfall," said BWDB Executive Engineer Sunil Kumar. "We've taken all necessary steps to control the pressure, but the risk of prolonged flooding remains."

Local authorities, including union councils, are using loudspeakers to urge residents in vulnerable areas to move to higher ground. Many people have already begun evacuating, taking livestock and valuables with them to safer locations.

Deputy Commissioner of Lalmonirhat, HM Rakib Haider, stated that five Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs) have been instructed to remain on high alert and coordinate emergency response efforts.

"If the water level continues to rise, further action will be taken to ensure public safety," he added.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to remain cautious and follow evacuation instructions.