Rapid increase in water levels near danger mark; low-lying areas begin to submerge as residents express concern over erosion and lack of protective infrastructure

The water level of the Jamuna River is steadily rising in Tangail's Bhuapur upazila, prompting concerns of potential flooding. Influenced by a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal and continued upstream inflow, the river’s water is nearing the danger level, with low-lying areas already beginning to experience early signs of submersion.

According to the latest data from the Tangail Water Development Board, the Jamuna River has been rising consistently since May 30. As of the morning of Tuesday, June 3, the water level at the Porabari point has surged by 68 centimeters compared to the previous day, now flowing just 2.39 centimeters below the official danger mark. The river is currently increasing at a rate of approximately 7 to 10 centimeters per day.

Several low-lying and char areas within Gabshara, Arjuna, and Gobindashi unions in Bhuapur upazila have already begun to see water intrusion. In parallel with the rising water, river erosion has also started in various locations, putting both croplands and residential properties along the riverbank at considerable risk. Locals complain that the same situation recurs every year due to a lack of attention to river protection and embankment repair initiatives.

Many residents blame inadequate preventive infrastructure and the absence of timely interventions from relevant authorities. According to them, the government’s failure to reinforce embankments or implement sustainable riverbank protection measures leaves them vulnerable during every monsoon season.

Md. Matiur Rahman, Executive Engineer of the Tangail Water Development Board, stated that the current rise in water level does not yet suggest an imminent flood. He explained that the increase is expected to stabilize and gradually decline before the second surge of monsoon rainfall, which typically occurs later in the season. Only if the water level rises further during that phase will official flood alerts be issued.

He also added that his department is equipped with all necessary logistical support to address emergency erosion control measures. The field teams are actively monitoring water levels and river conditions to ensure prompt action when necessary.

Despite the assurance from the authorities, many residents remain anxious. Past experiences have shown that river erosion can intensify rapidly, particularly in areas where the embankments are weak or non-existent. The lack of a long-term mitigation strategy, they say, continues to expose them to property loss and displacement.

As the monsoon progresses, eyes remain on the Jamuna River and its surrounding regions, where the delicate balance between natural forces and human preparedness will determine the severity of the season’s impact.