New Delhi: The threat of floods is once again looming over parts of Bihar, posing a potential danger to the public. Following a surge in the upper catchment area of the Gandak River in Nepal, the risk of flooding in Bihar has escalated significantly due to the sudden rise in water levels. In light of this, alerts have been issued for several regions of the state.
Furthermore, there is a possibility of waves rising to three meters in the Gandak River, which could lead to widespread flooding in the districts along its course. Preparations to tackle this situation are being fast-tracked.
High-Level Review Meeting
The administration has gone on high alert anticipating the flood threat. A high-level review meeting was held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit. District Magistrates and senior police officials/Superintendents of Police from the concerned districts participated in the meeting via video conferencing. During the review, instructions were issued to all relevant districts to remain alert and complete all necessary rescue and relief preparations.
Alert for Districts Along the Gandak River
In view of the anticipated water flow in the Gandak River, directives have been issued to exercise special vigilance in West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Saran, Muzaffarpur, and Vaishali. Instructions have also been given to continuously monitor the situation in Sitamarhi, Sheohar, and other vulnerable districts. District Magistrates have been directed to constantly monitor river water levels, embankments, low-lying areas, bridges, culverts, and other sensitive zones, and to issue timely alerts to the public.
Meanwhile, the Water Resources Department has ordered the opening of all gates at the Gandak Barrage and the release of water into associated canals to ensure the safe and effective management of the incoming water flow. Additionally, engineers from the concerned Water Resources Department have been instructed to maintain continuous surveillance over their respective sections and ensure the monitoring of embankments.
NDRF and SDRF deployed for safety and security
It is worth noting that NDRF and SDRF teams have been deployed to handle any situation arising from the disaster. Instructions have also been issued to send an NDRF team to Gopalganj, while another NDRF team will be kept on standby in Muzaffarpur.
Furthermore, orders have been issued to deploy an NDRF team in Bettiah as well. The SSB DIG has also assured that Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and other potential assistance will be provided as needed. People have also been appealed to be cautious. It is advised to keep a distance from the banks of rivers.
