Patna, September 3: Concerns are escalating in Bihar as water levels in the Ganges and several other major rivers continue to rise. Authorities have intensified security measures in sensitive areas. In Bhagalpur, the Water Resources Department is conducting emergency protective work on the Kazi Koraiya-Raghopur marginal embankment to prevent erosion.
In Patna, with the Ganges swelling, access to several ghats has been restricted. Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh, Secretary of the Water Resources Department, visited Bhagalpur on Wednesday to inspect the ongoing protective measures in the Raghopur embankment area. He instructed officials to expedite the work by increasing available resources and ensuring the quality of construction.
In the Navgachia area of Bhagalpur, police are using loudspeakers to alert residents about the rising water levels and erosion risks. Residents are advised to stay in safe locations and avoid approaching the river. In Patna, authorities have placed barricades at Bhadra Ghat, Naujhar Ghat, and Mahavir Ghat to restrict movement due to safety concerns.
Sub-Divisional Officer Kashish Bakshi has urged people not to bathe or engage in any activities in the Ganges. He reported that inspections from Kangan Ghat to Bhadra Ghat have been completed. Currently, water levels at Kangan Ghat are low, while Bhadra Ghat and Mahavir Ghat are already inundated. Barricades are being set up to prevent vehicle movement, and warning signs will be installed to raise awareness about potential dangers.
He noted that water has not yet reached any settlements, but some residents have tied their livestock near the ghats. A magistrate has been assigned to ensure their removal. Ten boats, 28 personnel, and six divers from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed. Additionally, four boats and 30 life jackets from the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) are stationed at Bhadra Ghat. If necessary, Section 163 of the Indian Citizen Safety Code may be enforced in sensitive ghat areas. Boat operations from Kachhi Dargah to Raghopur have also been suspended.
According to the Central Water Commission, the water level of the Ganges at Gandhi Ghat in Patna is 111 centimeters above the danger mark, with expectations of further increases in the next 24 hours. Water levels have also risen by 35 centimeters at Digha Ghat, 72 centimeters at Hathidah, and 198 centimeters at Shripalpur. There are predictions of rising water levels in several parts of the Kosi, Gandak, and Son rivers.
Authorities have specifically urged children and women to stay away from river water and avoid bathing or playing. The municipal corporation has been directed to arrange pumps in flooded areas, and additional police forces will be deployed in sensitive regions.
Officials have appealed to the public not to heed rumors and to follow the guidelines issued by the administration. Families living near the river are advised to exercise extreme caution and report any emergencies to local authorities immediately.
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