Rajshahi, August 13 (V7N) — The Padma River in Rajshahi is rising rapidly, inching closer to the danger mark and flooding low-lying areas and char lands. Croplands, homes, and roads are submerged, forcing residents to evacuate with livestock and belongings under increasingly difficult conditions.

As of Tuesday morning, the river's water level at the Rajshahi point was recorded at 17.43 meters — just 0.66 meters below the official danger level of 18.05 meters, according to the Water Development Board (BWDB). To ensure safety, the BWDB has suspended public access and monitoring activities in the T-bundh (embankment) area and advised nearby vendors and shopkeepers to vacate.

Steady Water Rise Since Late July
BWDB data shows the Padma’s water began rising on July 24, when it stood at 16.35 meters. Although it briefly receded, levels started climbing again from July 31. On August 10 at 6 AM, it reached 17.13 meters, rising steadily to 17.39 meters by the evening of August 11.

Char Areas Submerged
Several char areas including Khidirpur have already gone underwater. “The sudden rise in water level has flooded our char. We’ve moved our cattle and essentials to safer ground, but we’re now facing a shortage of fodder,” said local resident Masud.

Another resident, Rakib, noted that many are transporting goods by boat daily. “Some have moved to relatives’ homes, others to rented houses. Moving the livestock is the hardest part — many animals are still stranded.”

Local Administration Concerned
Shahidul Islam, a ward member from Harian Union, said many homes are on the verge of being inundated. “People are relocating, but livestock management is the biggest concern right now,” he said.

Gauge reader Enamul Haque from BWDB confirmed that the river was flowing dangerously close to the red line, having reached 17.39 meters on Monday evening.

Fears of Worsening Situation
Local residents fear that continued upstream rainfall or increased water flow from the Ganges could push the Padma over the danger level, worsening the flood situation. Further evacuations may be necessary, and damages to farmland, homes, and livestock feed supplies are highly likely.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging riverside communities to stay alert and prepare for possible emergency responses.

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