Patna: Monsoon activity has intensified across Bihar, bringing heavy rains to multiple districts including Patna, Darbhanga, Bettiah, Motihari, and Nawada. The increased rainfall, coupled with downpours in Nepal, has led to rising water levels in several rivers of the Terai region. The Maria river in Kishanganj witnessed the collapse of a 70-meter-long bridge due to the surging waters.
The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert, forecasting rain in 19 districts of the state: Patna, Gopalganj, East and West Champaran, Siwan, Saran, Buxar, Kaimur, Rohtas, Bhojpur, Aurangabad, Arwal, Gaya, Jehanabad, Nalanda, Nawada, Lakhisarai, Sheikhpura, and Begusarai.
The incessant rains have significantly raised the water levels in the rivers flowing through the Terai region. The 70-meter-long bridge over the Maria river in Kishanganj collapsed under the pressure. Additionally, a tractor crossing a culvert in Bagaha got caught in the river’s strong currents. All six laborers onboard managed to escape by swimming to safety.
In Araria’s Sikti block, the rising water levels of the Nuna river have led to flooding in several villages, including Salgudi, Kachana, Bansbari, Sighia, Ghoda Chowk of Padariya Panchayat, and Aulabari village of Khoragach Panchayat.
The Meteorological Department predicts continued thunderstorms and heavy rains in most districts over the next two to three days. North Bihar is expected to receive particularly heavy rainfall, while South Bihar may experience strong winds and lightning. The monsoon trough line currently passes near Raxaul in Bihar, contributing to the likelihood of further rainfall.
The Meteorological Center has warned of potential strong winds and lightning on Friday across many districts. On Thursday, lightning strikes claimed the lives of two individuals in the Tandwa police station area of Aurangabad: Jeetan Yadav (58) and Lallu Yadav (55). Additionally, 30-year-old Dheeraj Kumar from Vaishali was struck by lightning and died on the spot. Over the past four days, lightning has caused 12 fatalities in Bihar.
