Once a wide, water-filled river, the Teesta has now become largely dry across six northern districts of Bangladesh. The once barren sandbars have transformed into fertile farmlands where local farmers cultivate a variety of crops including pumpkin, bottle gourd, peanuts, maize, sesame, wheat, mustard, garlic, rice, onions, and chilies. Farmers in Rangpur, Lalmonirhat, and Nilphamari report that they now earn their livelihoods from these crops, selling produce worth hundreds of millions of taka each season.

Local farmers describe how they have turned adversity into opportunity. During floods, they lose homes and crops, but when the water recedes, they cultivate the exposed char lands. They receive agricultural incentives and guidance from local offices, though transportation remains a major challenge, as produce must be carried by horse carts across sandy terrain. Farmers say better transport support could help them earn higher prices.

Regional agricultural officials confirm that Teesta’s char lands now contribute significantly to national food production. Training and advice are being provided to help farmers increase yields and profits from short-duration crops.