Lavlu Sheikh, Lalmonirhat

The sudden increase in the water level of the Teesta river during the dry season has created concern among farmers and residents of the Teesta banks.

At this time, the water flow of the Teesta has increased due to the release of water from India.

It is feared that this may disrupt the 48-hour sit-in programme of the people of the Teesta banks on February 17 and 18.

The people of the Teesta banks have organized the program to demand a fair share of water.

Preparations for the gathering of lakhs of people at 11 points in 5 districts are almost complete. It is expected to include rural sports and various cultural programs. However, it is believed that the program may be hampered due to the increase in the water level of the Teesta due to the release of water from India.

In that situation, there is concern about the movement of the people of the Teesta banks and the protection of crops. India's irresponsible behavior in rejecting fair demands is creating an anti-India sentiment.

The water flow at the Teesta Barrage point started increasing after 3 pm on Saturday, February 15. The Water Development Board authorities said that at 6 pm, the water flow at the Teesta Barrage point was recorded at 50.10 cm. Which is slightly less than normal (normal 52.15 cm). However, the concerned officials fear that the water level may increase further.

Farmers on the banks of the Teesta are also afraid that the increase in water will damage their crops. They said that various crops including garlic, onion, sweet pumpkin, pulses and almonds may be damaged in the rising sandbanks of the Teesta. Farmer Ramzan Ali said, "We are going to protest over the Teesta water, just then India released water. This is their rice. India usually does not release water during this season."

Sattar Mia of Govardhan area of Aditmari said, "We will demand the dredging of Teesta in our organization with the participation of lakhs of people. We do not want Teesta to suffer like this anymore. At this time, India wants to nullify our demand by releasing water."

Sabur Ali, a fisherman on the banks of Teesta, said, "I have cultivated garlic and onion on 3 bighas of land due to the rising water of Teesta. If India releases water, my crops will drown. Now I am worried about the crops.

Nurul Islam, Water Measurement Operator of the Water Development Board, said, "The flow of water at Teesta Barrage point has increased due to the release of water from India. It is not possible to say how much water will come right now."

Principal Asadul Habib Dulu, Coordinator of the Teesta River Protection Movement and BNP's Divisional Organizing Secretary, said, "I have heard about the increase in Teesta water.

However, the 48-hour sit-in program will continue on the banks of Teesta on February 17 and 18."