Northeast Desk, 14th June: Following heavy rainfall and consequent flooding in Sikkim, which has led to overflowing of the Teesta river, the West Bengal Irrigation Department has issued an alert for northern districts of the state. An official stated that the release of water from barrages in Sikkim has caused a significant rise in the water level of the Teesta, posing a flood threat to areas on both sides of the river in Jalpaiguri district.
Teesta, a major river in West Bengal, flows through the floodplain of Jalpaiguri district, where a barrage at Gajoldoba regulates its flow. The districts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, bordering Sikkim, have also been affected by rain-triggered landslides that resulted in six fatalities on Thursday.
“The water level of Teesta is rising rapidly due to the barrages releasing water from Sikkim. An alert has been issued, and precautionary measures are in place. All officials have been directed to remain on duty with leaves cancelled,” the official informed PTI.
The Jalpaiguri district administration has been using public address systems to urge residents near the Teesta to relocate to higher ground. Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the swollen river.
“In several areas, Teesta is encroaching upon townships. The volume of water coming down from the mountains is overwhelming the barrage’s capacity. Consequently, low-lying areas will be affected. Irrigation department officials are conducting on-site inspections,” the official added.
Authorities in Jalpaiguri Sadar Sub-Division have activated alerts across all blocks, preparing boats and rescue equipment for potential evacuations. Residents living along the riverbanks have been instructed to move to safer locations.
Meanwhile, in Sikkim’s Mangan district, devastating landslides triggered by incessant rainfall claimed six lives and stranded over 1,500 tourists. The calamity caused the collapse of a newly-constructed bailey bridge at Sangkalang, severing connectivity between Mangan, Dzongu, and Chungthang. Landslides have blocked roads, submerged houses, and washed away electricity poles, exacerbating the situation in the region.
Read More: Assam: Rhino found dead in Kaziranga National Park