Patna: The immediate flood threat from the Gandak River in Bihar has eased after water discharge at the Valmikinagar Gandak Barrage fell sharply following heavy rains and flooding in Nepal. However, authorities remain on high alert in riverbank and low-lying areas, with the coming hours considered crucial.
The water discharge at the Valmikinagar barrage stood at around 99,800 cusecs at 8am today, down from 1.50 lakh cusecs at midnight.
According to officials, the surge in Nepal’s Trishuli River has moved downstream through the Narayani River. As a result, the possibility of a further rise in the Gandak’s water level in Bihar has currently decreased.
Chief Secretary reviews preparedness
Bihar’s Chief Secretary reviewed the flood preparedness measures through video conference with the district magistrates and superintendents of police of Muzaffarpur, West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Saran and Vaishali.
The administration has been instructed to maintain particular vigilance in low-lying areas and locations near rivers and embankments.
Officials have also been directed to ensure that there is no delay in evacuating residents to safer locations if the water level rises suddenly.
More than 5,000 evacuated in West Champaran
In West Champaran, more than 5,000 people have been evacuated as a precaution against possible flash floods.
The district administration said public announcements were made in areas close to embankments, following which residents were moved to safer locations.
Seven community kitchens have so far provided food to more than 1,150 people.
Relief centres and community kitchens have been identified in advance, while medical teams have been attached to these centres to provide medicines and treatment when required.
Embankments under 24-hour surveillance
The administration has intensified monitoring of vulnerable embankments and low-lying areas. Watchmen and Home Guard personnel are conducting continuous patrols along embankments.
NDRF and SDRF teams have also been kept on alert to respond quickly if the situation deteriorates.
Public announcements and awareness campaigns are being conducted to keep residents informed about the evolving situation.
Kosi and Bagmati also under watch
Apart from the Gandak, authorities are monitoring water levels and conditions along the Kosi and Bagmati rivers.
Officials said the situation across the monitored areas is currently normal, but contingency arrangements remain in place.
Authorities have stressed that relief and rescue operations can be launched immediately if river levels rise or flooding occurs in vulnerable areas.
