Heavy rainfall in India's Meghalaya and Assam has caused upstream rivers to swell, pushing the Chellakhali River in Sherpur 106 centimetres above the danger level. Authorities fear the situation could lead to a major flood.
Sherpur's Water Development Board Executive Engineer Md Akhinuzzaman confirmed the rising water levels on Tuesday morning. Last night at 10 pm, the river was flowing 39 cm above the danger mark, but saw a further rise due to continuous rainfall and upstream water flow.
Field reports show that the swelling Someshwari River has already entered low-lying areas near the under-construction Chapatoli Bridge, damaging several nearby shops.
As of 9 am Tuesday, water levels at various river points are as follows:
- Bhogai River (Nokugaon point): 379 cm below danger level
- Bhogai River (Nalitabari point): 257 cm below
- Old Brahmaputra River: 687 cm below danger level
According to a warning from the Department of Disaster Management, low-lying areas of the district may experience temporary flooding until May 20, potentially causing significant damage to homes and agriculture.
Md Sakhawat Hossain, Deputy Director of Sherpur's Agricultural Extension Department, stated that 94% of the rice harvest is complete, and farmers have been advised to quickly harvest the remainder. Loudspeaker announcements are being made in high-risk areas to alert residents.
Jhenaigati Upazila Executive Officer Md Ashraful Alam Russel noted that intermittent heavy rainfall over the last four days has raised river levels, heightening the risk of flash floods. However, he reassured that the situation is under control and all necessary preparations are in place.
