New Delhi: Flood concerns grew across Bihar on Saturday as continuous rainfall in Nepal and parts of the state pushed water levels in several rivers above
their danger marks. The rivers were already carrying high levels of water after flash floods hit neighbouring Nepal earlier this week.
According to the Bihar Water Resources Department, the Gandak river has crossed the danger mark in Gopalganj. At 8 pm on Saturday, the Valmikinagar barrage released around 99,800 cusecs of water, raising concerns for areas downstream.
The situation has been closely monitored after a flash flood in Nepal on Wednesday, reportedly triggered by an ice-rock landslide. Authorities in both Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have stepped up surveillance of river systems flowing downstream from the Himalayan region.
Ganga, Kosi and Gandak levels rise
“The water level of several rivers including the Gandak, Kosi, Burhi Gandak and the Ganga, has been rising. Incessant rainfall in the catchment areas of Nepal has led to rivers touching or flowing above the danger level at several places,” a senior Water Resources Department official told news agency PTI on Saturday.
According to the department’s latest bulletin, the Kosi and Burhi Gandak have reached danger levels in parts of Khagaria, Katihar and Kursela. The Ganga is also flowing above the danger mark at Hathidah and Gandhighat in Patna, along with Kahlgaon in Bhagalpur.
The rising water levels have prompted authorities to remain on alert, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding. Officials are keeping a close watch on river levels and vulnerable points as rainfall continues in the catchment areas.
Low-lying areas evacuated
People living in low-lying areas have been shifted to safer locations as a precaution, a senior official said. All concerned departments have also been placed on alert to deal with any deterioration in the situation.
“District magistrates have been directed to monitor the situation personally. Flood Control Department officials and engineers are camping at certain vulnerable sites in Bhagalpur, Purnea, Katihar, West Champaran and other districts,” the official said.
With rivers already above danger levels at several locations, officials are continuing to monitor the situation closely and assess the impact of further rainfall in Bihar and upstream areas of Nepal.
