Bhagalpur DM Inspects Embankments in Navgachhia as Flood Threat Looms

Bhagalpur: In response to rising water levels caused by heavy rains in Nepal, District Magistrate (DM) Dr Naval Kishore Chaudhary along with the Sub-Divisional Officer and the Executive Engineer of the Flood Control Division conducted an inspection of embankments in Kharik and Navgachhia blocks of Bhagalpur district. The inspection focused on embankments that may experience increased water pressure due to the situation.

The inspection comes after the Kosi Barrage opened all 56 gates to release excess water from Nepal, significantly accelerating the flow downstream. The water is expected to pass through the rivers in the Kharik, Rangra Chowk, and Navgachhia blocks. In preparation for potential flooding, the DM has sent an official letter to the Chief Engineer of the Flood Control and Water Drainage Division in Katihar, seeking immediate intervention.

During the inspection, concerns were raised about the embankments, particularly in Chorhar village of Kharik block, where the DM observed that despite prior warnings, flood prevention measures had not progressed as expected. “Given the delay in flood relief efforts, we cannot rule out the possibility of increased pressure on the embankments,” the DM stated.

The Executive Engineer on-site assured officials that all necessary flood protection work would be completed by the evening. “We are working under the guidance of the Chief Engineer to ensure that protective measures are implemented on all embankments along the Kosi Dhar. The goal is to finish the work within the stipulated time to prevent any adverse situations,” the Executive Engineer said.

Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation as the water continues to flow rapidly, and preventive measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the residents in the affected areas.