UNB, Rajshahi: Low-lying areas along the Padma River, including its shoals, have been flooded due to the rise in water level of the river in Rajshahi, affecting the croplands and homes.
The water level of Padma River at Rajshahi point was recorded at 17.43 metres — just 0.66 metres below the official danger level of 18.05 metres as of 9 am on Tuesday, according to the Water Development Board (WDB).
Due to the rising water level and potential safety concerns, authorities have suspended access to the T-dam area in the city.
Besides, the local administration also asked traders and shopkeepers along the riverbank to vacate the area.
Source at WDB said the water level in Padma began to rise from July 24 with 16.35 metres height of the water level. Although it slightly receded afterward, the river has been swelling again since July 31.
On August 10 at 6 am, the Padma water level was recorded at 17.13 metres, rising to 17.22 metres by the evening.
However, the water level was flowing 17.32 metres on Monday morning and 17.39 metres by evening, inundating the low-lying areas, chars and island along the river.
Shahidul Islam, a member of No 8 Ward in Horiyan Union of Paba upazila said, “The river waters have reached the doorsteps of many homes. People are starting to evacuate from the chars to safer inland areas, but managing livestock has become a major concern.”
Enamul Haque, a gauge reader at the Water Development Board, said that the danger level for the Padma River in Rajshahi is 18.05 metres. "As of Monday evening, the water level reached 17.39 metres — very close to the danger point," he said.
Locals fear that if heavy rainfall continues and if water flow from the Ganges increases, the Padma may soon cross the danger level.
This may require relocating the people of the riverbank areas more extensively. There is also a risk of damage to agricultural land, homes and livestock feed.
