Patna: The water level of the Ganges is continuing to rise across Patna, prompting flood control authorities to closely monitor river conditions as increased upstream flows from Prayagraj, Varanasi and Buxar are expected to reach the city within the next two to three days.
According to the Ganga-Sone Flood Protection Division, the river remains below the danger mark at all major gauge stations in the district. However, officials said the coming days will be critical as additional water from upstream stretches of the Ganges is expected to raise water levels further.
Low-Lying Areas Could Be at Risk
Officials estimate that once the upstream flow reaches Patna, the water level at Gandhi Ghat could rise by 2.5 to 3 metres.
According to the Flood Control Department, if the river level crosses 50 metres, the likelihood of flooding in low-lying parts of the city will increase significantly.
Water from the rising Ganges has already reached Gulbi Ghat and Krishna Ghat, although the river remains below the official danger level.
River Levels Remain Below Danger Mark
According to the Flood Protection Division’s 6 am report on Thursday:
Gauge Station Water Level Danger Mark
Digha Ghat 46.71 metres 50.45 metres
Gandhi Ghat 46.37 metres 48.60 metres
Maner 47.60 metres Below danger level
Hathidah 38.75 metres Below danger level
Officials said the water level at Gandhi Ghat remains 2.23 metres below the danger mark.
Why the Ganga Is Rising
According to flood control officials, the current rise in the Ganges is primarily being driven by increased inflows from the Sone and Gandak rivers.
Authorities also attributed the rising river levels to continuous rainfall in Nepal and increased discharge in rivers including the Kosi and Bagmati, which eventually contribute to higher flows downstream.
Meanwhile, the Punpun River at the Shripalpur gauge measured 47.75 metres, remaining 2.85 metres below its danger mark of 50.60 metres, although officials said the river continues to rise.
Embankments Under Close Watch
Additional District Magistrate (Disaster Management) DP Shahi said the flood situation in Patna remains under control and that there has been no report of damage to embankments.
According to the Flood Control Department, inspections indicate that the Patna urban protection wall, the Danapur distributary embankment, and the embankments along the Devna and Usri drains remain secure.
Officials added that no incidents of erosion or excessive pressure on flood protection structures have been reported so far.
What’s Next
The Flood Control Department said it will continue monitoring river levels as water from upstream areas moves towards Patna.
Officials have advised close surveillance over the next few days, when the impact of rising flows from western stretches of the Ganges is expected to become more evident in the district.
