Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar visited Patel Bhawan on Sunday to review the functioning of the Home and Disaster Management Departments, issuing key directives to officials in light of the ongoing monsoon season.
During his inspection of the Disaster Management Department and the State Emergency Operations Centre, the Chief Minister was briefed on the rainfall situation, river water levels, and agricultural coverage across the state. According to Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary of the department, Pratyaya Amrit, 222 blocks in the state recorded over 25 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours.
“The water levels in the Ganga, Kosi, and Budhi Gandak rivers have risen and are nearing the danger mark, but the situation remains under control,” Amrit informed. Paddy cultivation has also seen an increase, with 79.43% coverage reported so far, compared to 67.38% during the same period last year.
Kumar praised the 24×7 functioning of the State Emergency Operations Centre, describing it as a “very useful” facility that is benefiting the public. He emphasised the need for heightened vigilance amid rising river levels and instructed officials to ensure preparedness in line with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the positive impact of good monsoon rains on agricultural activity, particularly paddy transplantation, noting improvements in the groundwater table.
