Government Denies Claims Linking India Dam to Bangladesh Floods Amid Political Unrest
The Indian government has refuted allegations that the opening of a dam on the Gumti River in Tripura led to severe flooding in eastern Bangladesh, which is also grappling with political instability. The unrest has escalated following violent protests that forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and seek refuge in India.
The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that while heavy rains have indeed caused flooding, these were primarily due to water from downstream catchment areas rather than the release of water from the Dumbur dam. The government emphasized that the dam, located over 120 kilometers upstream from the Bangladesh border, is a relatively low-height structure, standing at approximately 30 meters, and primarily serves to generate power. Interestingly, Bangladesh also receives about 40MW of power from Tripura, further highlighting the interdependence between the two regions.
The persistent heavy rainfall, which began on August 21, has not only affected Bangladesh but also caused significant flooding in Tripura. Over 34,000 people have been displaced in the northeastern Indian state due to the floods. The weather department attributed the intense rain to a low-pressure system that has settled over central Bangladesh and the surrounding areas. This meteorological phenomenon has resulted in relentless downpours, exacerbating the flood situation on both sides of the border.
On August 21, data was shared with Bangladesh showing the rising trend in water levels. However, a power outage caused by the flooding disrupted communication at around 6 PM. Despite the challenges, efforts were made to maintain contact through alternative means to manage the situation effectively.
In Tripura, the situation is dire, with reports of at least nine deaths, including three members of a single family, due to landslides and drowning. Many of the state’s major rivers, including the Gumti, are flowing above critical levels, with the Gumti surpassing the ‘extreme danger level.’ The relentless rain has triggered landslides and flash floods, further complicating rescue and relief operations.
In Bangladesh, the situation is equally alarming. The floods have affected eight districts: Sunamganj, Maulvibazar, Habiganj, Feni, Chittagong, Noakhali, Comilla, and Khagrachari. Local media outlets have reported multiple deaths as a result of the flooding. The heavy rainfall, which the weather department attributes to the low-pressure area over central Bangladesh, continues to worsen the flood situation, leaving many communities in these districts vulnerable.
The government’s clarification comes amidst growing concerns and speculations about the role of the Dumbur dam in the floods. The Ministry of External Affairs has made it clear that the dam’s location and function make it unlikely to have caused the flooding in Bangladesh. Instead, the ministry points to the heavy rainfall as the primary culprit.
In conclusion, the recent flooding in eastern Bangladesh and Tripura is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including weather patterns and geographical conditions. While the Dumbur dam has been a point of contention, the Indian government has stressed that the floods are mainly due to natural causes, specifically the persistent heavy rainfall driven by a low-pressure system. Both India and Bangladesh are working to manage the flood situation, with ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact on affected communities. The political turmoil in Bangladesh adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as the country deals with both natural disasters and political instability.