The recent opening of the gates at India's Dambur hydroelectric project in Tripura has resulted in a surge of water flowing into Bangladesh, leading to severe flooding in the bordering districts of Cumilla, Brahmanbaria, and Feni.

Indian media reports indicate that water levels in four major rivers in Tripura—Howrah, Dhalai, Muhuri, and Khoai—have risen dramatically, forcing approximately 5,600 families to evacuate to safer areas.

Revenue Secretary Brijesh Pandey reported that relentless rains have devastated Tripura's South Tripura and Gomti districts. On Tuesday, August 20, rainfall reached alarming levels within 24 hours, with 375.8 mm recorded in Bagafa, 324.4 mm in Belonia, and 307.14 mm in Amarpur.

By 4 pm on Tuesday, the rivers were overflowing into Bangladesh, with the Howrah River entering Brahmanbaria, the Dhalai River entering Moulvibazar, the Muhuri River entering Feni, and the Khoai River entering Sylhet.

Khowai District Magistrate Chandni Chandran reported severe flooding in two sub-divisions as the Khowai River breached its banks. She advised residents to avoid fishing near rivers and to stay away from landslide-prone areas.

In Gomti, the District Magistrate cautioned that rising water levels in the Gomti River might necessitate further releases from the Dambur hydroelectric project. By 8:35 am on Wednesday, one of the dam's three gates had already been opened.

The Gomti River, originating in Tripura and flowing about 150 km before entering Bangladesh through Cumilla, has carried a significant volume of water into the region following the dam's gate opening.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued heavy rainfall in Tripura for the next two days, attributing the persistent downpour to low-pressure systems in central India and neighboring areas of Bangladesh.

BOB Post