Water levels exceed danger level in seven southern rivers
Water levels in seven significant rivers in Barishal division have surpassed the danger level on Monday due to the low-pressure in the Bay of Bengal and the effects of Neap Tide (the period of moderate tides when Moon and the Sun are in quadrature).
The increasing water levels might have led to a new flooding in several areas of the southern region.
Tajul Islam, sub-assistant engineer of Water Development Board’s Water Exploration Division, reported on Monday that out of 12 monitoring points across key rivers in the region, eight are experiencing water levels well above the danger mark, with other rivers also nearing it.
In Bishkhali River, 6 cm above the danger mark at the Jhalokati Sadar point, 6 cm at the Barisal Sadar point, 17 cm at the Patharghata point, and 13 cm at the Betagi point.
In Megan River, 1 cm above the danger mark at the Daulatkhan point and 67 cm at the Tazumuddin point in Bhola district.
In Baleswar River, 11 cm above the danger mark at the Pirojpur Sadar point.
In Kacha River, 13 cm above the danger mark at the Umedpur point.
In contrast, rivers such as the Tetulia in the Khiaghat area of Bhola, the Kirtankhola in Barisal, the Payra in Mirzaganj upazila of Patuakhali, and the Buriswar in Amtali upazila of Barisal are flowing near the danger mark.
Tajul Islam noted that during the monsoon season, water levels in southern rivers typically rise. He anticipates that water levels will return to normal within a few days.
However, the increased water levels could potentially damage embankments, fish farms, and crop fields, he added.