The water level at the Teesta River's Dalia Barrage in Lalmonirhat, Bangladesh, has unexpectedly risen, submerging newly emerged shoals. This situation prompted the Water Development Board to open four sluice gates, causing farmers to worry about potential damage to crops on the shoals.
The water flow at the barrage increased after 4 PM on Saturday, reaching 50.10 cm by 6 PM, approximately 4 cm above the normal winter level. This rise coincided with a planned 48-hour sit-in protest by locals from February 17-18, demanding equitable water distribution from the river, which is shared with India.
Farmers are concerned about the impact on crops like garlic, onions, sweet pumpkin, and pulses. Villagers suspect India is releasing water upstream, although this claim remains unconfirmed. Local resident Sahed Mia stated, "We are planning a movement for the Teesta water, and just at that moment, India is releasing water. This is India's strategy, as they never release water during this season." Another resident, Hadiul Islam, noted the sudden rise in water levels on Saturday afternoon, affecting sandbars in the Teesta Barrage area.
Fisherman Sabur Ali expressed concern over his cultivated land on the sandbar, fearing further flooding if more water is released. Nurul Islam, a water measurement operator at Dalia Water Development Board, indicated the rising levels are due to India's water release, but future water inflow remains uncertain.
Asadul Habib Duloo, coordinator of the Teesta River Protection Movement, confirmed the sit-in protest will proceed as planned, despite the water increase.
Source: The Financial Express