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Flood situation in Bangladesh 2024
According to AA News, the situation in southeastern Bangladesh has become increasingly dire due to persistent rainfall and the subsequent rise in river levels, resulting in over 1.5 million people being stranded. The roads and highways linking the Feni, Comilla, and Noakhali districts have been completely submerged in floodwaters, giving the impression of isolated islands.
The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) is diligently working to aid those affected in these areas. Reports from the Water Development Board of Bangladesh indicate that the water levels in the Gumti and Muhuri rivers in Comilla have risen significantly as a result of heavy rainfall and the recent opening of a sluice gate at Dumber Lake in Tripura, India.
Additionally, it has been noted that the water levels in the Kushiyara, Manu, Dhalai, Khowai, Muhuri, Feni, Gumti, and Halda rivers have already exceeded dangerous levels. According to data from the Bangladesh Water Development Board's Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC), water levels have reached peaks not witnessed in the last 50 years in some areas, including Hobiganj district in the northeastern part of Bangladesh. The water level of the Gumti River in Comilla district is anticipated to surpass dangerous levels within the next 24 hours, potentially leading to short-term flooding in nearby low-lying areas.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has predicted medium to heavy rainfall in the southeastern and eastern regions and adjacent upstream areas over the next 24 hours. Five districts are grappling with sudden flooding, and river levels in these regions are anticipated to stay above danger levels for the next 24 hours. This situation can get worse if the rain continues.
How had it happened?
The rivers of Bangladesh are expected to experience significant swelling as India has decided to open all the gates of the Farakka Barrage. This annual event brings about substantial changes in the region's water flow. It is well known that India usually operates 80-90 gates, a number that varies based on the prevailing rainfall and flood conditions. The persistent recurrence of this situation prompts the question: Why hasn't this issue been effectively resolved in the past?
The Business Standard reported that in response to heavy rainfall in India, the authorities took the decision to open all 119 gates of the Farakka Barrage. This action was necessary to manage the rising water levels in the northern region and expedite the discharge of the Ganges water. The move was a proactive response to the flooding in Patna and 12 other districts, ensuring the swift release of water to mitigate the impact of the floods.
As reported by the Times of India, the Centre has opened all the gates in response to a request made by Pataliputra MP Ravi Shankar Prasad. Sources revealed that the MP reached out to the Union Minister for Water Resources and urged him to ensure that all 119 gates of the Farakka barrage are raised to prevent floods in Patna and 12 other districts.
The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) officials have stated that nearly all of the Farakka gates are kept open during the monsoon season. However, the neighbouring country has been known to open 80-90 gates, the number depending on the amount of rainfall and the flood situation at the time.
The water level is expected to rise until October 5th and gradually decrease. If issues are not handled by the interim government of Bangladesh and India, many people will suffer.
What to do right now?
In light of the recent flooding in Bangladesh, it is essential for all segments of society, including students, the armed forces, law enforcement, and the general public, to join hands to offer aid and support to those impacted by the natural disaster.
In the wake of the recent destructive floods in Bangladesh, the interim government must appeal to citizens, organisations, and other nations to extend their support in various forms, such as financial aid, supplies, and expertise, to those who have been adversely affected by this calamity.
This may require actively taking part in distributing relief supplies, organising and delivering support services such as shelter and medical aid, and actively ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals affected by the flood.
Additionally, individuals and organisations who have the resources and willingness can contribute financial aid to support the recovery and rebuilding efforts of the communities that have been impacted.
The assessment of Farakka and other water dams' effectiveness in mitigating flooding in the region is an ongoing process. For more comprehensive information on this matter, the River Commission Board can be consulted.
The current government must prioritise open and honest dialogues with the public and the interim government. By engaging in transparent discussions, all parties can work together to find effective solutions and make tangible improvements to the current situation.
In light of the approaching monsoon season, it is essential that the interim government be afforded the required time to develop a comprehensive plan to mitigate the potential impacts of heavy rainfall, flooding, and other associated challenges effectively.
Given the recurring nature of natural calamities, it is evident that past administrations overlooked the crucial need to invest in the development of a comprehensive water distribution policy. This oversight has left the country vulnerable and ill-prepared to effectively mitigate the impact of such events.
The former Prime Minister, despite maintaining a robust relationship with India, failed to capitalise on opportunities to modernise the country's infrastructure and effectively tackle the pressing challenges it faced.
Shocking reports have brought to light the embezzlement of substantial funds (the misappropriation of a significant sum of funds by her relatives and officials) during her administration. These funds, which could have been allocated for the construction of multiple Padma bridges and the expansion of Metro rail lines over the past 15 years, have instead been misused.
Furthermore, it is imperative to confront the pervasive issue of misappropriated funds by dishonest officials, as well as the illicit transfer of funds abroad by unscrupulous individuals. It is crucial to consider redirecting these resources to mitigate the adverse effects of water stagnation and the prevalence of mosquito infestations.
To effectively combat the various challenges associated with rivers in Bangladesh, the government should give top priority to bolstering its partnership with India, executing a comprehensive water drainage system, and actively participating in river-digging initiatives aimed at enhancing the rivers' ability to contain water during flood situations. The Bangladesh River Commission holds significant potential to play a proactive role in addressing these complex issues.
I am confident that the incoming government will actively implement measures to empower and support the exceptionally skilled individuals working within the River Commission.
The writer is a Freelance writer and analyst.
Messenger/Fameema
