Lagatar24 Desk
Patna: Flood conditions in Bihar have worsened drastically as rising water levels in the Ganga, Kosi, and Budhi Gandak rivers threaten nine districts of the state — Patna, Buxar, Vaishali, Samastipur, Munger, Begusarai, Katihar, Bhagalpur, and Khagaria. The situation became more critical after all 108 gates of the Farakka Barrage were opened, intensifying river flow and causing severe waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Ganga Flows Above Danger Mark in Several Regions
In Buxar, the Ganga is flowing six meters above normal, and in Patna, it is two meters above the danger level. At Farakka, the river is 20 cm above the red mark. In response, over 600 security personnel and 45 engineers have been deployed to strengthen embankment surveillance. Night patrols have also been intensified to prevent breaches.
Floodwaters Inundate Villages, Agriculture Devastated
Fast-moving waters from the Ganga, Kosi, Barandi, and Kari Kosi rivers have submerged multiple villages in eastern Bihar. Areas such as Sabour, Kahalgaon, and Pirpainti are experiencing severe riverbank erosion, resulting in large-scale loss of agricultural land. In Khagaria, the water level of the Ganga rose by 40 cm, while Budhi Gandak increased by 25 cm in just 24 hours. Although there’s a slight decline in water levels in Supaul’s Kosi, the Mahananda River remains above the warning mark.
Diara Regions Severely Hit, Relief Efforts Underway
Floodwaters have engulfed Diara regions in Patna, Buxar, Munger, and Bhagalpur, displacing thousands of families. Evacuation and rescue operations are ongoing, with NDRF and SDRF teams deployed for relief efforts. The state government has issued a high alert across all affected districts.
Nepal Rains and Dam Discharges Worsen Crisis
The situation has been aggravated by heavy rainfall in Nepal and the release of dam water from upstream. Rivers like Punpun and Dardha have also recorded a significant rise in water levels. According to the Water Resources Department, the Ganga’s current July level has broken a 15-year record.
Kharif Crops Damaged, IMD Issues Fresh Warning
The floods have severely impacted agriculture, with widespread destruction of Kharif crops. The Bihar Agricultural University’s seed center in Sabour, Bhagalpur, has also been affected. The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast further heavy rainfall in coming days, potentially worsening the scenario.
Helpline Activated
The Bihar government has urged residents living near riverbanks to stay alert and has intensified monitoring across vulnerable areas. A flood helpline number (0612-2210118) has been issued for emergency assistance.
