RAJSHAHI, July 5 (V7N) – The water level in the Padma River at Rajshahi is steadily increasing due to heavy upstream runoff from recent rainfall and hill torrents. Over the past week, the river’s water level has risen by 1.51 centimeters, causing concern among residents and local authorities.

According to data from the Rajshahi Water Development Board, on Tuesday, July 1, at 3:00 PM, the Padma's water level at Rajshahi was recorded at 11.38 meters. This marks a steady rise from 9.87 meters on June 25.

Here is the observed daily change in river level over the past week:

  • June 25: 9.87 meters

  • June 26: 10.58 meters (increase of 0.71 m)

  • June 27: 11.00 meters (increase of 0.42 m)

  • June 28: 11.48 meters (increase of 0.48 m)

  • June 29: 10.48 meters (decrease of 1.00 m)

  • June 30: 11.36 meters (increase of 0.88 m)

  • July 1: 11.38 meters (slight increase of 0.02 m)

The flood danger level for the Padma River in Rajshahi is set at 18.50 meters. Although the current water level remains below this threshold, the continuous rise during monsoon season is being monitored closely.

Local observations indicate that the river is carrying increased amounts of floating water hyacinths (locally known as kuchuripana), a common indicator of rising water levels brought downstream from the upper basin. Several newly formed river islets have begun to submerge, although these areas are largely uninhabited and primarily used for livestock grazing.

Local boatman Saiful Islam remarked, “For the last few days, water in the Padma has been rising steadily. With it, we are seeing more floating hyacinths. That’s a clear sign the water level is going up. During the monsoon, this is normal, and it usually means more fish will come with the fresh flow.”

Nazrul, a resident of the riverbank area in Satbaria, noted, “Water hyacinths only float downstream during the start of the rainy season. When the Padma reaches about 15 to 16 meters, it begins to overflow into low-lying areas.”

Enamul Haque, a gauge reader with the Rajshahi Water Development Board, confirmed the increasing trend, stating that the current level remains significantly below the danger line, but continuous monitoring is in place as monsoon rains persist across upstream regions.

The regional water office is advising residents to remain alert and prepare for potential localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas, if the trend continues.

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