LALMONIRHAT: The authorities concerned have issued red alert near the country’s biggest irrigation project Teesta Barrage in Hatibandha of the district on Friday night due to huge overflow of water.

The alert came to effect at 8:00pm on the day.

Inhabitants near the barrage have been asked to evacuate the area immediately. The bypass road adjoining the barrage can be removed anytime, if the water flow continues to increase.

Announcements are being made using microphone asking the residents to leave the place and take secure shelter.

On Friday night, Water Development Board recorded the flow of water that is coming from Indian territory at 55 centimeters over the danger line.

WDB assistant engineer Hafizul Islam told banglanews, “Due to the water flow at 55 centimeters over the danger line, people of many villages of the barrage’s downstream and upstream have already been trapped and all gates of the barrage have been kept open to control the water flow.”

“The bypass road may have been removed to protect the barrage, if water flow is increased slightly more; as a result, thousands of people will be caught by water in the district,” Hafizul added.

Meanwhile, heavy downpour caused around 50 thousands people water-trapped at five upazilas and increase the water in the river. 

Hatibandha Upazila parishad chairman Liakot Hossain Bacchu told banglanews, “There is nothing to be frightened, all-out preparation are underway to face the situation.”

BDST: 1114 HRS, AGU 16, 2014