Patna: Bihar authorities have placed several districts on high alert following severe flooding in Nepal and concerns over rising water levels in rivers flowing into the state.
The administration is closely monitoring the Gandak, Kosi and other rivers after heavy rainfall and flooding in Nepal’s upper catchment areas. Officials have warned that river levels could rise sharply over the next two to three days.
West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Saran, Siwan and Vaishali have been instructed to take precautionary measures, while Sitamarhi and Sheohar are also under close observation.
High-Level Review Of Flood Situation
Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary held a high-level review meeting to assess the situation in Nepal’s upper catchment areas and the possibility of a sudden surge in the Gandak’s flow.
Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit subsequently directed district administrations and concerned departments to remain on high alert and ensure preparedness for emergency response and relief operations.
District magistrates and superintendents of police participated in the review through video conferencing.
Gandak Barrage Under Constant Monitoring
The Water Resources Department has directed officials to release water through the gates of the Gandak Barrage and associated canals to manage the flow safely.
Officials have been instructed to maintain continuous surveillance of the barrage, embankments and related infrastructure.
At around 6.05pm, Deputy Chief Minister and Water Resources Minister Vijay Choudhary said the discharge at the Gandak Barrage was about 80,000 cusecs. He said the situation was being closely monitored and urged people to remain vigilant without panicking.
Authorities said it could take around two to three hours for incoming water to reach the Valmikinagar Barrage.
Gopalganj Issues High-Alert Warning
Gopalganj district administration has issued a high-alert warning for areas along the Gandak River.
Residents in vulnerable locations have been advised to avoid staying close to the river. Officials are monitoring six riverside blocks — Kuchaikote, Gopalganj Sadar, Manjha, Barauli, Sidhwalia and Baikunthpur.
A control room has also been established to coordinate the response.
Public announcements are being made in vulnerable areas, including riverbank settlements, to keep residents informed about the developing situation.
NDRF, SDRF Teams Deployed
Additional National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force resources have been mobilised for relief and rescue operations.
An NDRF team has been directed to Gopalganj, while another has been kept on standby. An NDRF team has also been carrying out operations in Bettiah.
The Sashastra Seema Bal has provided Quick Reaction Team support and equipment, officials said.
A railway team comprising engineers, 11 boats and 34 personnel has also been placed on 24-hour standby.
Embankments And Infrastructure Inspected
Officials in West Champaran have inspected embankments and ghats in the Bagaha-Trishul area following the rise in Gandak water levels.
Authorities have ordered continuous monitoring of embankments, bridges, culverts and other critical infrastructure. Vulnerable spots are to be identified and addressed promptly.
District administrations have also been instructed to secure important documents and records in areas that could potentially be affected.
Two Engineers Missing In Nepal
Two engineers working at a hydropower project in Nepal’s Rasuwa district have reportedly gone missing amid severe flooding.
The missing workers have been identified as Ajay Kumar Singh, from Sakhuwa Madan in Dhanusha district, and 29-year-old Vikas Yadav, from Pipra village in Mahottari district.
Reports from Nepal have also indicated deaths and widespread disruption following the flooding.
India Assures Nepal Of Assistance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his Nepalese counterpart by phone and assured Nepal of India’s support in dealing with the disaster.
PM Modi said India would provide all possible assistance for relief and rescue efforts.
Bihar authorities have urged residents to rely on official announcements and credible sources for updates and to avoid spreading unverified information.
Officials have particularly advised elderly people, children and residents living close to riverbanks to remain alert and follow evacuation or safety instructions if issued.
