west-bengal-plans-to-dredge-teesta-riverbed

In response to continuous heavy rain in Sikkim and north Bengal and the resultant surge in the Teesta river, the West Bengal State Irrigation Department has been tasked with drafting a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for dredging the riverbed.

 

Officials from the Irrigation Department have indicated that dredging the Teesta basin is crucial to address breaches in the river spurs—extensions of embankments designed to protect vulnerable riverbanks.

 

The department asserts that the high flow and swelling of the Teesta since the onset of the monsoon pose significant risks to residents near the banks, necessitating the prompt removal of excess silt.

 

The Teesta river, which altered its course following devastating flash floods in Sikkim in October 2023, has since deposited an abundance of silt in the river basin.

 

Authorities believe that this year's surge, similar to last year’s, has damaged several river spurs. In addition to dredging, the Irrigation Department is engaged in repairing dams compromised by the swollen Teesta, with ongoing efforts at Milanpally, Bakali, and Changmari, and the initiation of repairs on the Ghajoldoba dam on Thursday.

 

On Thursday, the Teesta's waters exceeded the danger mark, leading to the erosion and submergence of significant sections of National Highway 10, a vital connection between Sikkim and the north Bengal plains.

 

The local administration detected multiple cracks along the highway and implemented measures to prevent vehicles from traveling over the damaged sections.

 

Flood-like conditions along the Teesta's banks, particularly in Melli, Teesta Bazar, and the 28th Mile in Kalimpong, have caused alarm among locals and authorities.

 

Authorities have previously evacuated several homes along the now-submerged banks of the Teesta, relocating residents to safer areas.

 

The recent landslides in Sikkim, along with diversions caused by the Teesta’s damage, have also disrupted traffic between Sikkim and north Bengal locales such as Kalimpong, Darjeeling, and Siliguri.

 

The West Bengal government’s proactive measures aim to mitigate the flood risks posed by the Teesta and safeguard the lives and livelihoods of those residing near the river.

 

The dredging project, once approved, is expected to significantly reduce the threat of future floods and stabilize the river’s flow.