Nepal Division’s Continuous Rainfall Raises Flood Risks in Bihar, Authorities On High Alert

Patna: The Water Resources Department of Bihar has issued a flood warning due to continuous rainfall in the Nepal Division since Friday. As a result, rivers originating from the region, including the Gandak, Koshi, Mahananda, and Bagmati, are experiencing significant water flow, with levels expected to rise further.

By 7:00 am on September 28, 5.38 lakh cusecs of water had been released from the Gandak Barrage at Valmikinagar, and 5.79 lakh cusecs flowed from the Koshi Barrage at Veerpur. The water flow in both locations is expected to increase. Additionally, 5.40 lakh cusecs of water were recorded at the Devghat site upstream of the Gandak Barrage, and 4.99 lakh cusecs flowed at Barahkshetra upstream of the Koshi Barrage. As a precaution, movement on the Koshi Barrage has been restricted.

To ensure the safety of embankments and flood management structures, engineers and officials have been deployed across sensitive and high-risk areas. This includes 45 junior engineers, 25 assistant engineers, 17 executive engineers, and three superintending engineers. Flood-fighting materials have also been stocked at all vulnerable points along the embankments, and workers have been assigned to monitor every kilometre.

In response to the potential disaster, the Water Resources Department has established a 24-hour emergency operations unit, “AVVA 20011,” under the control of the Principal Secretary. This unit will work in three shifts over the next 72 hours to manage flood control, irrigation, forecasting, public relations, and mechanical operations. An Engineer-in-Chief-level officer will oversee the efforts to mitigate the situation.

The district administrations of West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Saran, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, and several other flood-prone districts have been directed to take necessary precautions. Residents in vulnerable areas along the riverbanks have been informed, and patrols are being conducted to ensure preparedness for any potential disaster.

A review of the current situation and preparations was conducted on Saturday, with the Principal Secretary of the Water Resources Department and other senior officials in attendance. Authorities confirmed that all embankments and flood control structures are currently safe, and round-the-clock monitoring is in place to ensure continued vigilance.