Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
Patna, Jul 15: Continuous heavy rainfall in Nepal's catchment areas and the Terai region has led to a sharp rise in the water levels of several rivers in north Bihar, triggering floods in low-lying areas of West Champaran, East Champaran and Sitamarhi districts.
The Gandak, Bagmati and Dudhaura rivers are flowing at dangerously high levels, prompting authorities to remain on high alert as the flood situation continues to worsen.
The crisis escalated after around 2.32 lakh cusecs of water was released from the Valmikinagar Gandak Barrage, causing floodwaters to spread rapidly across the Piprasi and Madhubani blocks of the Bagaha subdivision in West Champaran.
The worst-hit areas include Sisai and Chiurahi panchayats, where more than 300 houses have been submerged. Floodwaters entered residential localities, forcing families to flee their homes and leaving many without time to save essential belongings, food supplies or livestock.
Several displaced families have taken shelter in schools and on higher ground along the Dhanha-Ratwal main road as water levels continued to rise. The Diara (riverine) region has been completely inundated, disrupting transport and cutting off connectivity to several villages.
Residents alleged that despite repeated alerts about the rising water levels, relief teams reached the affected areas only after considerable delay. They have demanded immediate assistance, including food, safe drinking water, medicines, temporary shelters and other essential relief materials.
Responding to the allegations, Madhubani Block Circle Officer Nandlal Ram said officials were deployed immediately after information about the flooding was received. He said authorities are assessing the extent of the damage and ensuring that necessary relief reaches the affected families.
Meanwhile, the Bagmati River has also crossed the danger mark at several locations following persistent rainfall in Nepal, increasing the flood risk in Sitamarhi and Sheohar districts.
In view of the developing situation, Sitamarhi District Magistrate Richie Pandey has directed all departments to remain on alert and activate flood preparedness measures.
The Water Resources Department has been instructed to monitor embankments round the clock, while officials are carrying out inspections in Bairgania, Suppi, Tilak Tajpur and Belsand to detect seepage or any structural weaknesses.
The district administration has also launched a public awareness campaign through loudspeaker announcements in vulnerable villages, advising residents to stay away from riverbanks and avoid unnecessary travel in flood-prone areas.
Special warnings have been issued to parents, urging them not to allow children near rivers, canals or embankments during the monsoon, as strong currents pose a serious risk even when the water appears calm.
With rainfall continuing in Nepal and upstream regions, authorities fear the flood situation could deteriorate further if river discharge increases. Emergency response teams have been kept on standby to carry out rescue and relief operations wherever required.