FLOOD MANAGEMENT MODEL FOR GUMTI RIVER

Location

South East Region, Bangladesh

 

Type of Project

Flood Management

 

Period of Study

2002-2004

 

Client

Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB)

 

Study Area

Interface of DSS

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The Gumti river enters into Bangladesh near Comilla and falls into the river Meghna at Daudkandi. Each year several flash floods occur during monsoon i.e. from May to September. During flash floods both discharge and velocity of the flowing water is tremendous, and water level rises very rapidly.  In July 1999 there was a severe breach occurred in the left bank of Gumti river at Etbarpur. Due to this breach total damage was estimated to be Tk.100 crore.

`The main objective of this study is to carry out a feasibility study of the scenarios for strengthening of embankments of Gumti River and improving flood management in the Gumti basin using mathematical models. The study was outlined for working out different option studies in finding a feasible solution in a joint effort through people’s participation.

Various technical alternatives have been formulated in consultation with client’s field officials and stakeholders to resolve the existing flooding problems of Gumti River. The development alternatives were studied using calibrated and verified model against the monsoon of 1983 i.e. 50-year flood event since this year has been identified as the design event year. Considering technical, social, economic and environmental aspects, one option is finally selected for implementation. The final option includes raising & strengthening of Gumti embankment, loop cut, release of flow from Gumti to Ghungur through bypass in excess of design flood and re-excavation of Ghungur river. Cost of this option though higher than other options, this option provides additional safety in case of emergency situation.  

A Decision Support System (DSS) based on model result has also been developed. It will support the decision makers in the decision-making process and will be helpful for better understanding of the flooding problem of Gumti River. Model results of recommended options as well as other scenarios have been preserved in DSS. As water level and discharge at Comilla govern the hydrological response of the study area, Comilla station has been selected for decision-making of flood management. When the water level of Gumti at Comilla will approach towards the 50-year design level, the bypass at Ghungur needs to open. However, participation from different level of stakeholders like public representatives, government employees, professional groups, voluntary groups including NGOs, army and community-based organizations during this emergency situation is essential for successful implementation of the output of DSS.