Rivers

Bangladesh is often called the “Land of Rivers” because it has one of the largest river networks in the world — around 700 rivers. Here are the major ones

Padma River

• Originates from the Ganges in India and flows into central Bangladesh.

• Known for its mighty width, fertile floodplains, and the recently built Padma Bridge.

• Supports farming, fishing, and river trade.
  
  

Jamuna River

• The main channel of the Brahmaputra River in Bangladesh.

• Famous for its constantly shifting sandbars (chars) and wide braided channels.

• Major transport route and source of fish.
  
  

Meghna River

• Flows from the confluence of Surma and Kushiyara rivers, joining the Padma before reaching the Bay of Bengal.

• Known for fast currents and its role in coastal fishing.
  
  

Teesta River

• Flows through northern Bangladesh from the Himalayas.

• Vital for irrigation in the Rangpur region; changes course dramatically during monsoon.
  
  

Surma River

• Flows through Sylhet, fed by Himalayan streams from India.

• Known for tea garden scenery and traditional boat culture.
  
  

Karnaphuli River

• Originates in the hills of Mizoram, India, and flows through Chattogram.

• Home to the Karnaphuli hydroelectric dam; key to Chattogram’s port trade.
  
  

Shitalakshya River

• Runs near Dhaka and Narayanganj.

• Historic hub for textile and jute industries.