Lalmonirhat: A flash flood triggered by upstream hill runoff and continuous rainfall has severely damaged a regional road in the Patgram upazila of Lalmonirhat district, effectively cutting off communication for approximately 2,000 families.

According to United News of Bangladesh, the sudden flood resulted from the Teesta River swelling above the danger level on Wednesday evening, inundating at least six localities in Dahagram Union. Although the water started to recede by Thursday morning, the damage had already been done. Local residents reported that the water level of the Teesta River rose by two to three feet within a few hours due to heavy upstream flows from India, affecting several areas in Wards 1, 2, and 3 under Dahagram Union.

The flood submerged around 500 acres of transplanted Aman paddy fields. Fortunately, the Department of Agricultural Extension in Patgram stated that the crops did not suffer significant damage, as the floodwaters receded quickly. However, as the water withdrew, it left behind severe damage to infrastructure. The approach roads on both sides of a bridge over the Sakoa River in the Sristiarpar area of Ward No. 1 were damaged, and a nearly 20-foot stretch of the regional paved road connecting Sistiarpar with Angarpota and Patgram collapsed, creating a crater about 10 feet deep.

This road damage has isolated communities in Dangapara, Mistripara, Pradhanpara, Olerpar, and Sakoapara villages under Wards 2 and 3, causing significant hardship for residents. “It will be impossible to travel unless the road is repaired. There is also a risk of falling into the large crater while trying to cross,” said Asad Mia, a resident of Ward No. 3, who discovered the road washed away on Thursday morning.

Local authorities are aware of the situation. Patgram Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Tanvir Hossain has been in contact with the executive engineer of the Roads Department, who assured that the damaged section will be repaired as soon as possible.