Bihar Flood: Over 22 Lakh Affected Across 12 Districts; 1429 Boats, Community Kitchens Step Up Relief

Following heavy floods, water levels in several rivers across Bihar have surged above the danger mark.  More than 22.42 lakh people across 12 districts of Bihar have been affected by the floods, disrupting normal life in several areas.

According to the Disaster Management Department, floods have affected 368 gram panchayats across 70 blocks in Patna, Bhojpur, Saran, Vaishali, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Buxar, Samastipur, Munger, Katihar, Lakhisarai and Arwal.

Community Kitchens Increased

The state government has stepped up relief efforts as river levels continue to rise. The number of community kitchens has been increased to 190 from 80 on September 5, providing food to around 2.51 lakh people so far. The government has said its priority is to ensure that no flood-affected person goes without food or timely assistance.

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Three relief camps are currently operational, providing shelter, food and other essential facilities to 1,631 flood-affected people.

Relief supplies have also been distributed among affected families, including around 65,700 polythene sheets and 12,712 dry ration packets.

Over 1400 Boats Deployed For Evacuation

For evacuation and safe movement in flood-hit areas, 1,429 boats are currently being operated. The number of medical camps providing primary healthcare has also been increased from 118 to 171.

The rescue operation has been further strengthened with the deployment of 10 NDRF and 27 SDRF teams across various districts.

According to the Central Water Commission, the Gandak, Kosi, Budhi Gandak, Ganga, Punpun, Bagmati and Ghaghra rivers are flowing above the danger mark at several locations.

Flow at the Gandak barrage in Valmikinagar and the Son barrage in Indrapuri remains stable for now. However, the Bihar Meteorological Service Centre has forecast light to moderate rainfall at several places over the next two days, with heavy rainfall likely at isolated locations.

The authorities on Sunday issued an alert for five downstream districts - Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Bhagalpur and Katihar. As per the Bihar Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the pressure of the water flow is likely to shift downstream over the next one to two days, impacting Hathidah and subsequent downstream gauge stations, where water levels may also surpass previous HFL marks.

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The authorities have accordingly directed the concerned officials and field staff to remain on high alert and continuously monitor the rising water levels as the situation remains evolving.

Additionally, monitoring of embankments, vulnerable sites and low-lying areas has been instructed. The directions to the officials include implementation of precautionary measures in advance as per requirements. The flood-control resources and machinery are asked to be kept ready at all times.