Rajshahi s Water Crisis Deepens as River Levels Hit Record Low

Residents of Rajshahi city and its surrounding areas are facing an acute water shortage as the Padma River, the region's primary water source, has dropped to its lowest level in over three decades. The crisis, attributed to a combination of reduced upstream flow and a prolonged dry spell, has disrupted daily life and threatened agricultural production in the northwestern division of Bangladesh.

According to the Bangladesh Water Development Board, the water level at the Rajshahi gauge station fell to 6.9 meters on Wednesday, a record low for this time of year. Officials said the flow has decreased by nearly 40 percent compared to the same period last year, leaving many shallow tubewells dry and forcing residents to rely on deeper wells and water tankers.

"We have not seen such a severe shortage in the last 30 years," said Md. Golam Mostafa, a local farmer from the Charghat upazila. "Our irrigation pumps are struggling to draw water, and many crops are withering in the fields. We are worried about the upcoming boro rice season."

The crisis has hit hard in the city's low-income neighborhoods, where municipal water supply remains erratic. Many families are queuing for hours at community taps, while others are purchasing water from private vendors at inflated prices. "We have to spend a significant portion of our income just to get drinking water," said Jahanara Begum, a resident of the Boalia area. "The government must take immediate action."

Rajshahi City Corporation officials acknowledged the problem but said they are taking steps to mitigate the impact. Mayor A.H.M. Khairuzzaman Liton told reporters that the corporation has deployed additional water tankers to affected areas and is working to repair non-functional deep tubewells. "We are closely monitoring the situation and will ensure that no one goes without water," he said. "However, the long-term solution lies in managing the river flow and ensuring fair sharing of water from upstream."

The issue has also sparked calls for diplomatic engagement with India, as the Padma River originates in the Himalayas and flows through Indian territory before entering Bangladesh. Environmentalists and water rights activists argue that the construction of dams and barrages upstream has significantly reduced water flow during the dry season. "Bangladesh must raise this issue at the highest levels of bilateral dialogue," said Dr. Shahriar Alam, a water management expert at the University of Rajshahi. "We need a comprehensive agreement to ensure minimum water flow during critical periods."

In response, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement saying that India remains committed to the bilateral water-sharing treaty and is monitoring the situation. However, no specific measures were announced.

The crisis has also affected the region's famous mango orchards, which are a major economic driver for Rajshahi. Growers report that the lack of water is stunting fruit development, potentially reducing this year's harvest by up to 30 percent. "Mango trees need adequate water at this stage," said Abdul Latif, a farmer from Bagha. "If the situation does not improve, we will face huge losses."

As the dry season continues, meteorologists predict that rainfall in the coming weeks will be below average. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has advised authorities to prepare for an extended period of water scarcity. Meanwhile, residents are calling for long-term solutions, including rainwater harvesting and improved water conservation practices, to reduce dependence on river water.

The Rajshahi water crisis underscores the broader challenges facing Bangladesh as it grapples with the impacts of climate change and transboundary water management. With the Padma River at a historic low, the immediate priority remains ensuring access to clean drinking water for millions of people in the region.