Patna: Continuous rainfall in Nepal has caused the Kosi and several other rivers in Bihar to swell, triggering flood-like conditions across parts of north Bihar. More than 20 lakh people have been affected in Saharsa, Supaul, Katihar and Kishanganj, with Saharsa and Katihar emerging as the worst-hit districts as rising water levels inundated villages and damaged agricultural land.
According to officials, the swelling rivers have submerged low-lying areas, disrupted transportation and increased the risk of erosion along riverbanks. Authorities have placed disaster response teams on high alert as water levels continue to be closely monitored.
Thousands Marooned in Saharsa
The flood situation is particularly severe in Nauhatta, Mahishi and Salkhua blocks of Saharsa district, where nearly 30 panchayats and around three lakh residents have been affected.
Many families reported that floodwaters entered their homes overnight, leaving them stranded without boats or immediate relief.
“We have survived on salt and sattu for the past week. Our children and livestock have gone hungry for days. There is nearly one-and-a-half feet of water inside our courtyard, and no official has come to help us,” said Ramdev Sharma, a resident of Kedli Panchayat.
Sunita Devi, a resident of Ase village in Nauhatta block, said floodwater had entered her house and courtyard, forcing the family to remain indoors.
“The water level rose rapidly after midnight, and by morning the entire village was submerged. There is still no boat service or relief arrangement,” she said.
Kosi Continues to Threaten North Bihar
Often referred to as the ‘Sorrow of Bihar’, the Kosi River flows through five districts and frequently causes flooding across nearly 35 blocks during the monsoon season.
In Supaul district, villages located inside the Kosi embankments, including Basantpur, Nirmali, Saraigarh, Kishanpur, Marauna and Supaul Sadar blocks, remain vulnerable. While widespread flooding has not yet occurred there, families living in low-lying areas have already been affected.
Residents said they are relying on private boats for transportation, with operators charging around ₹50 per person to cross floodwaters.
Madhubani and Madhepura Monitoring Rising Waters
In neighbouring Madhepura district, floodwaters have begun entering low-lying areas of Chausa and Alamnagar blocks, placing nearly a dozen villages at risk.
District Magistrate Abhishek Ranjan visited erosion-prone areas and directed engineers to immediately begin flood protection work. Officials have been instructed to remain on alert and ensure emergency resources are available.
Administration on High Alert
Officials said NDRF, SDRF and disaster management teams have been placed on high alert. Around 4,000 sandbags have been stockpiled, and junior engineers have been directed to remain on duty round-the-clock to respond to any emergency.
Authorities warned that if the Kosi’s discharge crosses 2.5 lakh cusecs, flood conditions could worsen significantly in Saharsa, Purnea, Madhepura and Katihar.
Erosion Intensifies in Katihar
In Katihar district, rising water levels in both the Ganga and Kosi rivers have accelerated riverbank erosion, particularly in Kursela block. Farmers have reported losing several acres of fertile agricultural land as strong currents washed away fields.
The district administration began excavation work using earthmoving equipment to divert the river’s flow and reduce erosion. The work was briefly halted after objections from villagers, who feared it could worsen the situation, before resuming following discussions with officials.
Flood Threat Grows in Kishanganj
Water levels in the Mahananda, Mechi, Kanakai and Ratua rivers have also risen in Kishanganj district, increasing the risk of flooding and erosion.
The Ramzan River, considered a lifeline for Kishanganj town, has overflowed into low-lying areas. The diversion road connecting Majhia and Khagra has been submerged, disrupting transport and affecting daily life.
Residents fear that if river levels continue to rise, more settlements could be inundated in the coming days.
IMD Warns of Further Deterioration
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that continued rainfall in Nepal and inflow from upstream catchment areas could further aggravate the flood situation across northern Bihar over the next few days.
Authorities have appealed to residents living near riverbanks to remain vigilant, avoid venturing into flooded areas, and follow official advisories as rescue and relief teams remain on standby.
