Dhaka, Aug 22 (V7N) - India has responded to concerns expressed in Bangladesh regarding the recent flooding, clarifying that the situation is not linked to the opening of the Dumbur Dam in Tripura, as claimed. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Thursday that allegations attributing the flood on Bangladesh’s eastern border to the dam are factually incorrect.
 
The MEA explained that floods in regions shared by India and Bangladesh are a mutual challenge that necessitates joint efforts for resolution. They emphasized that the heavy rains in the catchment areas of the Gumti River, which flows through both countries, have been the primary cause of the flooding.
 
India highlighted that the Dumbur Dam, situated over 120 kilometers upstream from the Bangladesh border, is a low-height structure (approximately 30 meters) used for power generation, with 40 MW of electricity supplied to Bangladesh. The dam's distance and its low height make it an unlikely factor in the flooding.
 
The Indian side noted that the recent heavy rainfall in Tripura and adjacent districts of Bangladesh, starting from August 21, has contributed significantly to the flooding. Automatic water releases from the dam have been observed due to the high inflow, but these actions are standard practice during such conditions.
 
India also mentioned that three water level observation sites along the river, located in Amarpur, Sonamura, and Sonamura 2, are used to monitor and transmit real-time flood data to Bangladesh. Although communication issues arose due to a power outage, efforts were made to maintain data transmission through alternative channels.
 
In a scheduled meeting, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma is set to discuss the flood situation with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus this afternoon. The discussion is expected to focus on the ongoing flood challenges and cooperative measures.
 
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