Patna: The flood situation in north Bihar has worsened due to continuous rainfall over the past few days. The Ganga River and its tributaries are flowing above the danger level at several locations, with heavy rainfall in Nepal’s catchment areas contributing to rising water levels in Bihar’s rivers.
Since September 26, heavy rains have hit most of Bihar’s river catchment areas, and forecasts predict more rainfall in the coming days. All 38 districts in Bihar are on alert, with varying intensities of rain expected across the region.
Districts like West Champaran, East Champaran, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia, Katihar, Gopalganj, Siwan, Bhagalpur, and Banka have already recorded significant rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 205 mm.
Data from the Patna Meteorological Department indicates that the situation may worsen, raising concerns about severe flooding and widespread disruption. The state is on high alert as authorities brace for further challenges in managing the flood crisis.
In response, the Water Resource Department has taken measures. On Friday, 6 lakh cusecs of water were released from the Valmikinagar Gandak Barrage, with 6.81 lakh cusecs expected from the Kosi Barrage in Virpur Block. Principal Secretary of the Water Resource Department, Sanjeev Kumar Mall, has instructed officials to closely monitor the situation, protect embankments, and ensure timely rescue operations.
All engineers and officials are required to remain stationed at embankments for the next 48 hours, with flood control equipment, such as sandbags, ready to prevent erosion. Officer leaves have been cancelled, and round-the-clock vigilance has been mandated to safeguard vulnerable areas.
The water levels of major rivers in Bihar are fluctuating, with some exceeding danger levels. For instance, the Ganga River is slightly below the danger mark at Digha Ghat in Patna but expected to rise.
At Hathidah, it is already 11 cm above the danger level, while in Bhagalpur’s Kahalgaon, it is 54 cm above. Other rivers, like the Kosi and Burhi Gandak, are also flowing well above danger levels in different regions, indicating a critical flood risk in the coming days.
