Rajshahi: Water in the Padma River has been rising for the last couple of days, continuously inundating most of the low-lying areas in both Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj districts. The onrush of water from the upstream areas has inundated croplands and dwelling houses, and the affected people are suffering a lot with their domestic animals and other belongings.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the local office of the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) has recorded a 17.43-metre water level here, which is 0.66 metres below the danger mark. BWDB officials have suspended entry and visits to the T-groin areas on the city protection embankment to secure the area and have asked traders and businessmen to vacate the vulnerable point.
Official data indicates that the affected areas are Char Asadiadaha in Godagari Upazila, Char Mazar Diar, Char Khidirpur, and Diar Khidirpur under Paba Upazila, and Char Alaipur and Gargari under Bagha Upazila. Masud Rana, a resident of Char Khidirpur village, said, "Our areas were inundated with floodwater, and we have been struggling with domestic animals for the last couple of days." Another inhabitant, Abdur Raquib, mentioned that they are relocating their valuables to safer places by boat.
BWDB Executive Engineer Arifur Rahman Ankur reported that the river water has been rising, engulfing many of the low-lying areas. He noted that the water might continue to rise for two more days, although there is no apprehension of a flood. Preparations have been made to tackle any unexpected situation.