Bihar Floods: Ganga Reaches Record Level

Floods have affected around 10.26 lakh people across 11 districts of Bihar, with the Ganga crossing its highest flood mark at Gandhi Ghat in Patna. The Ganga river rose to 50.53 metres at Gandhi Ghat, one cm above the previous highest flood level recorded on August 21, 2016.

The water level rose 10 cm in four hours and is expected to reach 50.62 metres by 8 am on Sunday. Officials have advised people, particularly those living in low-lying areas, to remain cautious. At Pandarak in Patna, the Ganga was also flowing at 43.78 metres, surpassing the previous highest flood level recorded on August 16, 2021.

The floods have affected 50 blocks and 201 gram panchayats in Patna, Bhojpur, Saran, Vaishali, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Buxar, Samastipur, Munger, Katihar and Araria districts. Several rivers, including the Gandak, Kosi, Burhi Gandak, Punpun and Ghaghara, are flowing above the danger mark at various locations.

Chief minister Samrat Choudhary directed ministers and senior officials to visit affected areas and closely supervise relief and rescue operations. He also asked officials to camp in flood-hit areas and ensure prompt assistance to those affected. The state water resources department directed district magistrates and superintendents of police to alert people living along embankments and maintain continuous patrolling to deal with emergencies.

The state received 60.8 mm rainfall in September so far, 69 per cent above normal, officials said, attributing the rise in river levels to heavy rain in Bihar and neighbouring Nepal. The disaster management department said 38 community kitchens were operating in affected areas. About 12,300 polythene sheets and 2,250 dry-ration packets have been distributed, while 858 boats, 27 SDRF teams and seven NDRF teams have been deployed.

BJP national president Nitin Nabin said the government was closely monitoring the situation and making efforts to minimise the difficulties being faced by people. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also monitoring the situation at the Centre, particularly in view of the continuing rainfall and the situation in Nepal.

The situation in Bihar is being closely watched, with the state government and central authorities working together to provide relief to those affected. The floods have caused widespread disruption, with many people forced to leave their homes and seek shelter elsewhere. The government's efforts to provide aid and support to those affected are ongoing, with a focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of all those impacted by the floods.

In terms of significance, the floods in Bihar are a major concern, with the potential to cause long-term damage to the state's infrastructure and economy. The situation is being closely monitored, with the government and authorities working to mitigate the effects of the floods and provide support to those affected. The floods are also a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for effective relief and rescue operations in times of crisis.

The impact of the floods will be felt for some time, with many people facing significant challenges in the coming days and weeks. However, with the government and authorities working together to provide relief and support, there is hope that the situation can be brought under control and those affected can begin to rebuild their lives.