Risk of short term flooding in Sylhet as water surges from upstream
Photo: Agamir Somoy
Water levels in the Surma and Kushiyara rivers in Sylhet are rising due to continuous heavy rainfall upstream. Although no river has yet crossed the danger level, the relevant authorities fear that short term flooding may occur in low lying areas. To address the possible situation, the district administration, the Health Department, and the District Information Office have intensified their preparedness.
According to the Sylhet Water Development Board, water levels at the Kanaighat, Amalshid, Sheola, and Fenchuganj points on the Surma and Kushiyara rivers are continuing to rise. Continuous heavy rainfall upstream over the past several days has increased the pressure from hill runoff, raising concerns that water may newly enter low lying areas of the district.
Considering the possible risks of flooding, hill collapses, and landslides, the District Information Office has stepped up its public awareness activities. Residents in vulnerable areas are being advised through regular public announcements and road campaigns to move quickly to shelters if necessary. At the same time, awareness campaigns are being conducted on post flood health risks, particularly dengue prevention. The District Information Office is also sharing disaster preparedness and public health messages through its Facebook page, website, and social media platforms.
Md. Abdul Quddus Bulbul, Relief and Rehabilitation Officer at the Sylhet Deputy Commissioner’s Office, said, “A total of 575 shelters have been kept ready in the district’s 13 upazilas to deal with any possible flood situation. In addition, 10,319 packets of dry food, 1,250 packets of baby food, 175 metric tons of GR rice, 48 bundles of corrugated sheets, and Tk 1 million in cash assistance have been stockpiled. Relief will be distributed immediately among affected people as needed. So far, 410 packets of dry food and 150 packets of baby food have already been distributed.”
The Health Department said that 105 medical teams have been kept on standby to respond to any potential disaster. To ensure emergency healthcare services, nearly 295,600 packets of oral saline, 142,200 water purification tablets, 10,215 packets of cholera saline, 176 vials of anti snake venom, along with other essential medicines and medical supplies, have been stockpiled. Officials and staff have also been instructed to remain at their workplaces, with all leave canceled to ensure uninterrupted emergency health services.
Additional Deputy Commissioner for General Affairs Saeeda Parveen said, “The district administration has completed all preparations to deal with any possible flood situation. All relevant departments are jointly monitoring the situation around the clock, and immediate assistance will be provided if necessary.” She urged residents of vulnerable areas to follow government instructions and move quickly to shelters if needed.
The district administration said that no significant damage from flooding has been reported in Sylhet so far. No incidents of hill collapse or landslides have occurred anywhere in the district. There have also been no reports of deaths or injuries caused by the heavy rainfall. All government departments remain on round the clock alert to deal with the situation.
