Rambhi:The project site of the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation’s third phase of Teesta Low Dam Project at Rambhi in Kalimpong sub-division has submerged in the Teesta waters following heavy rainfall in the area. There was, however, no report of any casualty. According to the NHPC officials, portions of the 600-metre long coffer dyke at the project site got breached this morning, resulting in inundation of the entire area. “The water level in the Teesta crossed the danger level and damaged the coffer dyke early this morning. Owing to inundation of the project site, we suspended all works today,” said Mr SK Khatua, chief engineer, TLDP-III. On an average, 1,100 personnel work in day shift at the Rambhi project site and another 400 in the night shift. The NHPC officials are finding it difficult to assess the monetary loss caused, as the damaged coffer dyke has also gone under the Teesta waters. As per TLDP officials, an attempt would be made tomorrow to construct an approach road on the right bank of the Teesta and resume the project work there. However, they clarified that work in the barrage area would resume only after the monsoons. Meanwhile heavy rains over the past few days have created a flood-like situation in Siliguri, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar districts. Rivers, such as the Mahananda, the Teesta, the Torsha and the Jaldhaka are flowing close to the danger mark at several points.
