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Sholmari to prevent flooding. Similar protective measures have been taken by villagers at two sluice gate areas where water had already begun to seep into the croplands.

Despite the urgency, many farmers are harvesting traditionally rather than using combined harvesters to save on costs.

“Paddy is currently selling for Tk 1,100 per maund, which is lower than last year. If we use combined harvesters, the increased costs would result in a huge loss. We are harvesting by hand to remain profitable,” explained Ashraful Islam, a farmer from Shatpukuria village.

With approximately 60 percent of the paddy still in the fields, the next two weeks are critical. Agriculture officials and farmers agree that if the weather stays clear and the temporary dams hold, the entire crop can be safely brought home.

Officials from the local agriculture office continue to monitor the situation closely as the harvest continues in full swing.

Due to the onrush of water from upstream, the Atrai river has been swelling rapidly over the past few days, with water levels rising at least 10 feet in the last three, said Emdad Hossain, sub‑divisional engineer of the Natore Water Development Board.

As of yesterday, the river was flowing 2.69 metres below the danger level (a little over 12 metres).

“We are closely monitoring the situation in Singra, which is most vulnerable to flood. So far, the situation is under control,” he said.