IMD Warns of Heavy Rain and Flash Flood Risk in Bihar
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of heavy rainfall and the possibility of low to moderate flash floods in several districts of Bihar, exacerbating an already dire flood situation in the state.
According to the IMD, heavy rain is likely in West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Patna, Jehanabad, Madhubani, and Bhojpur districts over the next 24 hours.
Flash Flood Alert and Evacuations
The IMD's forecast has prompted the State Disaster Management Department (DMD) to alert the administration of these districts to remain on high alert and take preventive measures. The department has written to the district magistrates to ensure necessary precautions are in place.
The warning comes as 12 districts along the Ganga, including Buxar, Bhojpur, Saran, Patna, Samastipur, Begusarai, Munger, and Bhagalpur, are already experiencing a flood-like situation. Nearly 13.5 lakh people living in low-lying areas have been affected by the rising water levels of rivers following torrential rainfall.
Evacuations and Relief Efforts
A large number of people from the affected districts have been evacuated and brought to relief camps. The ongoing efforts to mitigate the flood's impact are ongoing, with authorities working tirelessly to manage the situation.
Rising Water Levels and River Alerts
The Bihar Water Resources Department has sounded a flood alert in areas along the swollen Kosi and Gandak rivers. Continuous rainfall over the past two to three days, including incessant rainfall in the catchment areas of Nepal, has led to rivers touching or flowing above the danger level at several places in the bordering districts.
In response to the rising water levels, the authorities in Bihar have taken drastic measures. On the night of September 27-28, some gates at the Valmikinagar Barrage on the Gandak River were lifted, releasing 6.87 lakh cusecs of water. Additionally, 7.54 lakh cusecs of water were released from the Kosi Birpur Barrage on September 28.
Ongoing Crisis
The situation remains critical, with the IMD predicting continued heavy rains on September 28. This has further complicated the relief efforts, as the state struggles to manage the flood's aftermath and prepare for additional rainfall.
The flash floods have devastated the lives of millions, highlighting the urgent need for robust disaster management and preventive measures to mitigate such natural disasters in the future. As the situation continues to unfold, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected.
