Dhubri District on High Alert Due to Potential Flood Threat from Bhutan

Dhubri District Administration Takes Precautions

Dhubri, Oct 30: Following a recent advisory from the Central Water Commission (CWC) regarding a potential Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) at Shintaphu Lake in Bhutan's Punatsangchhu river basin, the Dhubri district administration has issued a high alert. This warning indicates a possible rapid increase in water levels in downstream regions of Assam and West Bengal.

Dibakar Nath, the District Commissioner of Dhubri, stated that the administration has activated its disaster response protocols and is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), local police, water transport authorities, and other relevant departments.

The CWC's advisory suggests that flash floods in the upper Punatsangchhu river basin could lead to a sudden surge in the Sankosh River's water level, which may impact both Alipurduar district in West Bengal and Dhubri district in Assam. The advisory warns that floodwaters could reach the India-Bhutan border in approximately six to eight hours.

Despite the warning, Nath reported that no significant rise in the water levels of the Sankosh or Gangadhar rivers has been detected, with current levels remaining below the danger threshold.

“Last night, we received a special advisory from the CWC regarding the glacial lake outburst flood at Shintaphu Lake in Bhutan. The water level of the Sankosh River may rise, potentially affecting Dhubri in Assam. Since last night, the DDMA and other departments have been monitoring the Gangadhar River, and we have not observed any abnormalities,” Nath explained.

“Given the special advisory, we are on high alert and are closely monitoring the situation. Residents should remain calm and avoid sending children or family members to bathe or play in the river. Boat movements have been restricted, and we have instructed the Water Resources Department to keep a close watch on the situation,” he added.

The administration has deployed officials and field personnel to vulnerable areas, including the Co-District Commissioner of Golakganj, Circle Officers from Agomani and Golakganj Revenue Circles, disaster management field officers, Land Records Assistants, and personnel from the District Disaster Response Force (DDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).

Five boats from the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) have been stationed under the Golakganj and Tamarhat police stations. Additional boats and rubber boats have been mobilized from Goalpara and Bongaigaon to enhance emergency response capabilities.

The administration is working with the SDRF and other response teams to ensure that rescue operations can be initiated promptly if necessary.

The Inland Water Transport authorities have been instructed to limit unnecessary boat movements, especially at night, and to closely monitor river traffic. Daytime boat movements should also be minimized unless absolutely necessary, requiring prior approval from the relevant authorities.

The Water Resources Department has been tasked with monitoring embankments and identifying potential risks. Areas along the Sankosh and Gangadhar rivers have been marked as particularly vulnerable.

As a precaution, 13 villages are under close observation by the district administration. These include Lohajani, Borobalar Char, Moragadhadhar Char, Koimari Char, Koimari Part-I, Koimari Part-II, Koimari Part-V, Koimari Part-VI, Jangbanha, Pakriguri, Boinaguri Part-I, Boinaguri Part-II, Belpara, and Bakdokra.

Residents in riverine, char, and low-lying areas are advised to stay alert and adhere to official instructions. They are urged to avoid fishing, bathing, and other activities in rivers, ensuring that children do not approach riverbanks.

Additionally, people are advised against crossing river channels, unnecessary boat trips, and should be prepared for possible evacuations on short notice. Residents should keep essential documents, medications, and other necessities readily accessible.

The District Emergency Operations Centre (DEOC) is coordinating with the DDMA, CWC, and other relevant agencies as the administration continues to monitor the evolving situation.