Lagatar24 Desk
Patna: In response to persistent heavy rainfall in Nepal’s Terai region, water levels in Bihar’s Kosi and Gandak rivers have risen sharply, triggering the opening of 92 barrage gates. The surging water flow has put the state on high alert, with fears of potential flooding in low-lying areas.
All 56 gates of the Kosi barrage and 36 gates of the Gandak barrage were opened on Saturday to manage the increased water flow. According to official reports, the water discharge at the Kosi Barrage escalated from 3.36 lakh cusecs early in the morning to 4.49 lakh cusecs by 9 a.m., while the Gandak Barrage witnessed a similar rise, surpassing 4.20 lakh cusecs by noon. This sharp increase has raised concerns among local residents, particularly in flood-prone areas.
High Alert and Precautionary Measures
In light of the growing water levels, the district administration has predicted that the water flow at the Valmiki Nagar Gandak Barrage could surge to 6 lakh cusecs, while the Birpur Kosi Barrage may see a flow increase up to 6.81 lakh cusecs. Such water levels could signal serious flood threats in the region. To prevent any untoward incidents, the Water Resources Department has issued a high alert and instructed all regional engineers to camp at sensitive and highly vulnerable sites for the next 48 hours.
Adequate flood-fighting materials have been stocked at strategic locations, and additional engineers have been deployed to closely monitor and strengthen flood-prone embankments. The state government has also canceled the leaves of all officials under the department until further notice, ensuring a full-fledged response to any potential flood crisis.
Deputy CM Assures Preparedness
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha reassured citizens that the government is fully prepared to deal with any possible flood situation. Speaking to the media, he acknowledged the challenges posed by natural disasters, stating, “We are facing an intense test with the increasing water levels, but the government is ready to respond to any scenario.”
He further emphasized that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has made it clear that the state’s resources will be fully utilized to aid flood-affected people. “There will be no shortage in delivering assistance. We have already visited areas like Araand Lakhisarai to assess the situation,” he added.
The government is monitoring the situation closely as water levels fluctuate, with local authorities and disaster management teams on standby to provide immediate relief to affected communities. The Chief Minister’s directive remains firm: the first priority of the state’s treasury is to assist those impacted by natural calamities.
As the water levels continue to rise, authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines to minimize risk.
