Gandak River surge warning in Bihar as Nepal rainfall intensifies
Congress MLA warns of a massive 4.5 lakh cusecs surge in the Gandak River due to heavy Nepal rains. Evacuations are underway in West Champaran.
The Gandak River is on the verge of a massive surge, posing a significant threat to the residents of West Champaran in Bihar. Following relentless torrential rainfall in Nepal, Congress MLA Surendra Prasad Kushwaha issued a critical warning on Sunday, stating that the water discharge rate is projected to hit a staggering 450,000 cusecs by late Sunday night.
The situation is evolving rapidly as the river's flow intensifies. According to the MLA, the discharge rate has already climbed to approximately 300,000 cusecs, with the expectation of a sharp increase as more water flows down from the upstream regions in Nepal.
Emergency evacuations underway in West Champaran
As the water levels rise, local authorities and community leaders have moved into high gear to protect vulnerable populations. Residents living in low-lying areas are being urgently relocated to safer ground to prevent loss of life and property.
MLA Kushwaha detailed the ongoing relief efforts, noting that:
- Relocation: Displaced families are being moved to Bherihari.
- Shelter and Food: The government, supported by youth volunteers, has established arrangements for food and temporary housing.
- Essential Supplies: Teams are organizing the distribution of dry rations and other critical necessities to those affected by the rising waters.
The local administration has also initiated public announcements, or "miking," in flood-prone zones to ensure that every resident is aware of the impending danger.
Red alert in Nepal as weather system intensifies
The crisis in Bihar is directly linked to the extreme weather patterns currently battering Nepal. Authorities in Nepal have issued a red alert for several regions, as a powerful weather system continues to dump heavy rain across the country.
In Kathmandu, the Bagmati River has already breached its embankments after more than 36 hours of continuous downpour. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) in Nepal has released a five-day special weather warning, cautioning that light to heavy rainfall and various weather-related hazards are expected to persist through Tuesday.
The adverse weather has also disrupted daily life in Nepal, leading to the suspension of several public transport services.
Bihar Government focuses on long-term flood mitigation
Amidst the immediate crisis, the Bihar government is looking toward long-term solutions for the state's perennial flooding issues. Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary recently held a high-level review meeting to discuss the management of the Ganga, Gandak, and Kosi river systems.
During the review, the Chief Minister emphasized that flood management must move beyond mere annual emergency responses. He directed officials to develop a long-term flood risk mitigation strategy, specifically for the Kosi river system, which includes:
- Improved silt management.
- The construction of new barrages.
- The installation of solar plants on river embankments.
The Chief Minister also reviewed other major infrastructure projects, including the Buxar-Bhagalpur 6-lane Greenfield Expressway and various energy projects, as the state seeks to balance disaster management with rapid developmental progress.