Development work stopped as BDR raises 'red flag'

Mekhligunj, Mar 16 (UNI) Tension prevail in this border area in Coochbehar district after the Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) raised objections against the construction of a dam, intended to drawn away excess water from the Dharala river during the monsoon.

The BDR had objected to the dam being built on the Dharala river in Changrabandha under Mekhligunj area. The Border Security Force (BSF) held a flag meeting with the BDR recently but the issue was not resolved.

Work was finally stopped 15 days ago.

There was a demand for this dam since a long time as the river becomes turbulent during the rainy season.

District Magistrate of Coochbehar Rabinder Singh told UNI the administration would talk to higher officials in Bangladesh on the situation. ''We have to meet the higher officials about it,'' he said.

Meanwhile, local people are furious at the development as they apprehend that the river will play havoc in this rainy season too.

Local Panchayat member Babita Devi Sharma said the dam was essential to protect Changrabandha and adjoining areas.

A BSF source said at the time of the flag meeting, the BDR told them that they would forward the matter to their Headquarters.

However, there has been no reply from them ever since.

UNI XC PL HS RK1655