Over 1 lakh people marooned as flood situation worsens in Kurigram

The flood situation in Kurigram has worsened due to the swelling of rivers, marooning more than one lakh people in 15 unions of 5 upazilas of the district.

The water of the Brahmaputra river is flowing above the danger level at Chilmari and Hatia points in Kurigram. There is a shortage of pure drinking water and dry food in these areas. The flood victims said that the cattle are suffering due to the submerged pastures.

On Saturday morning, the Water Development Board reported that the Brahmaputra River’s water level has risen by 72 centimetres above the danger level at the Chilmari point, 68 centimetres at the Nunkhawa point, and 71 centimeters at the Hatia point.

On the other hand, the water levels of the Teesta River at the Kaunia point, the Dudhkumar River at the Pateshwari point, and the Dharla River at the Shimulbari point are flowing below the danger level.

Residents in the char areas and low-lying regions near the rivers are the worst victims of the flood as water enters their homes. Many families, along with their livestock, have taken refuge on flood control embankments, enduring severe difficulties.

The submersion of both dirt and paved roads has disrupted the communication system, aggravating the plight of the flood victims.

Md Rakibul Hasan, executive engineer of the Water Development Board said, “There is a forecast of floods for another two days.”

Kurigram Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Saidul Arif said, “291 metric tons of rice, Tk 20.85 lakh and 15,000 packets of dry food have been allocated for the flood victims. Relief operations are going on. Actions will be taken to reach the relief materials where it is necessary.”