Rajshahi, July 8 (V7N) - The Padma River at the Rajshahi border has surged significantly in the past week due to monsoon-driven hill stream inflows, with water levels rising from 10.48 m to 11.68 m—an increase of 1.20 m. The current level remains 6.82 m below the danger threshold of 18.50 m, according to the Rajshahi Water Development Board.
 
Field observations in Kajla–Fultala reveal floating water hyacinth (kuchuripana) drifting downstream—an expected phenomenon during early monsoon. These hyacinths signal rising river levels. Small char islands in the river have seen higher water levels, submerging them partially; although uninhabited, they are used for grazing livestock.
 
Local boatman Saidur Majhi noted, “With rising water comes kuchuripana flow. During the early monsoon, the water increases daily. Fishermen are catching a variety of fish near the banks, often found in bunches.” Children play near these floating mats of hyacinths, enjoying the seasonal changes.
 
Enamul, at the Rajshahi waterfront ghats, added: “These hyacinths don’t typically come at other times of year—only when water rises at the start of monsoon. When Padma reaches 15–16 m, it usually starts to overflow in the early hours.”
 
Sub-Assistant Engineer Abu Hurairah of the Rajshahi City Protection Branch confirmed, “At 3 pm Sunday, the Padma stood at 11.68 m, still well below the 18.50 m danger mark.”
 
With monsoon flows continuing, water levels are expected to keep rising, bringing both ecological changes and opportunities for local fisheries. Authorities remain vigilant as the river approaches critical thresholds.
 
END/MRA/SMA/