The flood situation in Bihar has become serious. The number of flood affected people in 15 districts of the state has increased to about 48.22 lakh. Many major rivers are still flowing above the danger mark. Incessant rainfall and heavy rainfall in the catchment areas of Nepal have been cited as the main reasons.
According to the Disaster Management Department, about 48.22 lakh people are affected in 575 gram panchayats of 87 blocks of 15 districts. As of Friday evening this number was 47.33 lakh. The affected districts include Patna, Bhojpur, Saran, Vaishali, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Buxar, Samastipur, Munger, Katihar, Lakhisarai, Khagaria, Purnia, Madhepura and Araria.
Many rivers including Ganga are in danger
Ganga at Sultanganj in Bhagalpur is 1.98 meters above the danger mark. However, a decrease in the water level is being recorded here. Gandak in Dumariyaghat, Kosi in Baltara and Kursela, Budhi Gandak in Khagaria and Ganga at many places are flowing above the danger mark.
Alert to officials regarding erosion
In view of the possibility of sudden river bank erosion and damage to embankments, the Water Resources Department has given instructions to increase surveillance at sensitive places. As soon as officials receive information about erosion or embankment breach, they have been asked to immediately inspect and initiate necessary safety measures. So far in September, there has been 108.8 mm rainfall, which is about 20 percent more than normal.
1,248 community kitchens, 1,794 boats deployed
There are 1,248 community kitchens and 13 relief camps operating in various districts for the flood affected people. There are arrangements for food, accommodation and medical treatment for 12,260 people in the relief camps. 1,794 boats are being operated for rescue and transportation. 27 teams of SDRF and 10 teams of NDRF are deployed. The weather center has predicted clouds in many parts and light rain at some places in the next two days.