The rising water levels of the Kosi and Ganga rivers have put several areas of Bihar at risk of flooding. With 13 districts already severely affected by rising Ganga levels, the surging Kosi now threatens to submerge northern Bihar and Seemanchal. In response, both the state and central governments are on high alert. Due to heavy rains in Nepal, a massive 661,295 cusecs of water was released from the Kosi Barrage at Birpur (Nepal) on Sunday at 5 AM, marking the highest release since 1968.
Governments in Action
Anticipating the worsening flood crisis, both Bihar's state and central governments are mobilized. Union Minister Nityanand Rai will conduct a review meeting with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) today. The NDRF has been placed on high alert, and state officials have been instructed to remain vigilant and implement necessary safety measures.
Haunting Footage Emerges
Disturbing videos of the deluge in Bihar are circulating across social media platforms. The situation at the Kosi Barrage remains precarious, with water on the brink of overflowing bridges at multiple locations. Local authorities have advised residents to exercise caution and relocated those living by the river to safer zones. Some areas are being evacuated due to erosion risks.
'Haven't Seen Such Water in 50 Years'
Reportedly, the Kosi river's water levels haven’t been this high in 50 years, threatening to inundate several districts in North Bihar, causing widespread panic among residents. Locals experiencing the scene on the ground shared that it has been over half a century since they've witnessed the Kosi at such dangerously high levels.
2008 Flood Recollections Resurface
Recalling the 2008 incident when the Kusaha Dam breached, locals noted that back then, up to 200-300 cusecs of water were released, causing the dam to fail. This year, over 550,000 cusecs have already been released from the Kosi Barrage post-continual rains in Nepal, posing a severe threat. An official indicated that recent water releases from Valmikinagar and Birpur Barrages have prompted the Bihar government to issue flood warnings for the swelled Kosi, Gandak, and Ganga rivers affecting North and Central Bihar.
Valmikinagar Airport Flooded
The Valmikinagar Airport has fallen prey to the deluge, with its runway and helipad fully submerged. This airfield, the closest to the Nepal border, caters to NDRF, SDRF, and VIP flights.
Nepal's Torrential Rain Claims Lives
On another front, ongoing rains have wreaked havoc in Nepal, claiming at least 99 lives to date. The incessant showers since Friday have resulted in severe flooding in certain areas, compelling disaster management officials to issue urgent flood warnings. The impact of this catastrophe is spilling over into Bihar as well.
