Flashflood: 25,000 people stranded in Lalmonirhat

The low-lying areas of Lalmonirhat district have been inundated as Teesta river keep swelling due to onrush of water from the upstream and the torrential rainfall for the last several days, leaving 25,000 people stranded.

Flood protection embankments are at risk due to heavy pressure of water as Teesta was flowing 2cm above its danger level.

The authorities concerned of the Water Development Board (WBD) recorded 52.17 metre of water flows at Dalia point of Teesta Barrage.

Besides, roads and bridge culverts were washed away by the strong current of the river water while the standing crops including Aman paddy and vegetables lands were submerged. The fish enclosures were also washed away by the flood water, causing huge loss to the fish farmers.

Rashidul Haque, a resident of Saledi Spar dam-2 area, said they are passing sleepless nights amid the fear of the collapse of the embankments.

Saiful Islam, a farmer of Gobordhan area, said the residents of the village have been experiencing waterlogging for the last several days and they are using boats to go from one house to another house inside the village.

Tamij Uddin of West Bichandoi village in Hatibandha upazila, said, "The number of stranded people is rising daily. Children, the elderly, and livestock are in grave danger. We don't want relief — we want the swift implementation of the Teesta Master Plan."

Mashiur Rahman, chairman of Dauabari Union Parishad, said some 3,000-3,500 families of the union have been marooned. 

Though the local administration has been informed, no relief materials have been received yet, he said.

HM Rakib Haider, deputy commissioner of Lalmonirhat district, said "Relief materials will be delivered very soon for those stranded in the area. It is already being monitored and trying to protect embankments it with GO bags."

The district and upazila administrations are ready to tackle the flood situation, he added.