The Atrai River dam on Indian side collapsed once again on Tuesday morning under pressure from rising water levels, only four months after its previous breach.
The sudden collapse has sparked widespread concern among residents along both sides of the border, particularly in Bangladesh, where the river continues its downstream course.
The Atrai River, which originates in Bangladesh, briefly flows into India before re-entering Bangladeshi territory. The river's cross-border course means any disruption in flow or structural integrity can have ripple effects on both sides.
The controversial dam was constructed just last year at a cost of approximately Taka 30 crore, as part of India’s attempt to regulate flooding, which it blamed on a rubber dam installed by Bangladesh.
Following damage in February 2025 due to floodwaters, partial repair work was undertaken near Jarosore in India.
However, heavy rainfall in recent weeks pushed water levels up again, causing a second major breach in the newly repaired section on Tuesday.
Local villagers in both India and Bangladesh fear uncontrolled water surges, which could flood low-lying areas. In Bangladesh’s Naogaon and Rajshahi regions, rising water levels in the Atrai River are already being monitored closely.
Experts warn that sudden discharge or failure to manage the river flow could submerge entire villages, ruin crops, and damage infrastructure.
“This is not just an Indian issue — the river's flow directly impacts our ecosystem and communities,” said an official from Bangladesh's Water Development Board (BWDB), requesting anonymity.
The dam collapse has also triggered political controversy in India. Sukanta Majumdar, Member of Parliament from South Dinajpur and a central minister, visited the site and accused local authorities of massive corruption. “They used TMT rods meant for housing construction in building the dam. This is blatant misuse of public funds,” he alleged, calling for a high-level investigation.
In contrast, Ashok Mitra, chairman of the Balurghat Municipality, dismissed the corruption claims and called the incident a natural disaster. “The BJP should look into its own backyard before pointing fingers,” he said, citing irregularities in other public projects, including those linked to the Ram Temple construction.
Meanwhile, residents along the Atrai River remain caught in uncertainty. With the monsoon season approaching, they are demanding urgent repair of the dam and assurances from the administration.
However, as of now, no concrete rehabilitation or compensation plan has been announced, fueling anger and fear among the local population.
