Patna, Jul 21 (IANS): Nearly 16 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed in several districts in Bihar for flood rescue operations.

NDRF 9th battalion commandant Vijay Sinha said on Tuesday that on the request of the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, a total of 16 teams were sent to 11 districts of Bihar -- West Champaran (Bettiah), East Champaran (Motihari), Gopalganj, Katihar, Araria, Supaul, Kishanganj, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Madhubani and Saran.

Three teams of the NDRF have been deployed in Gopalganj district, two teams each in Betia, Motihari and Saran and one team each in the remaining other districts.

"Skilled teams who are capable and ready to provide all possible help to the people in relief and rescue operations during flood disaster have been deployed," Sinha said.

He said, "During the flood rescue operations this year our NDRF personnel are strictly following the protective guidelines and protocols amid COVID-19."

Keeping in mind the corona virus epidemic, all the members of the NDRF team have been given PPE, mask, face shield, sanitizer, handwash and other protective gear.

"The officers and team commanders in charge of the NDRF are continuously on a recce at the flood-affected areas and are in coordination with the district administration in the deployed districts, so that the needy people can be provided with immediate assistance," Sinha added.