Patna, September 1: Water levels in several major rivers in Bihar, including the Ganga, Kosi, Gandak, and Son, have risen significantly. In response, district administrations and the Water Resources Department have intensified monitoring and relief preparations in vulnerable areas. In Bhagalpur, the Ganga’s swift flow has raised concerns about erosion, while in Buxar, officials have been instructed to inspect flood-prone areas due to the rising water levels.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the downstream flow of the Kosi River at the Veerpur Barrage was recorded at 192,735 cusecs and was on the rise. The Gandak River at the Valmikinagar Barrage recorded a flow of 150,200 cusecs, also showing an increase. The Son River’s downstream flow at the Indrapuri Barrage reached 425,854 cusecs, raising alarms for low-lying and riverbank areas.
The Ganga’s water level is near or above danger marks at multiple locations. At Gandhi Ghat in Patna, the water level was recorded 80 centimeters above the danger mark, with a projected increase of 20 centimeters by the following morning. In Hathidah, the water level was 48 centimeters above the danger mark, with a potential rise of 22 centimeters. Maner reported a water level 15 centimeters above the danger mark, with an estimated increase of 31 centimeters.
In Buxar, the water level was 34 centimeters below the danger mark, but it is expected to rise by 17 centimeters by the afternoon of the next day. District Magistrate Sahila inspected the Lal Singh Ka Dera area in light of the Ganga’s rising water levels. She directed the local authorities to ensure an adequate number of boats, boatmen, and trained divers in populated and sensitive areas. Continuous monitoring of the river levels and surrounding areas has been mandated, along with readiness for emergencies.
In Bhagalpur, the administration remains vigilant due to the Ganga’s rising water levels and changes in the river’s current, which have led to erosion concerns. Protective measures are being undertaken at the Kazikoreya-Raghopur marginal dam to prevent erosion. The Water Resources Department has deployed a sufficient number of engineers and workers, along with machinery and other resources, to work around the clock. The situation remains challenging near the Mahadevpur dam due to swift currents and scouring, although protective measures have secured significant portions of the dam. Erosion risks persist.
Local reports indicate that some old structures have been affected, including a temple that has fallen victim to erosion. Relevant departmental teams are continuously monitoring the situation and taking necessary actions. The Bhagalpur administration has also strengthened relief arrangements for flood-affected individuals. A community kitchen is set to begin operations at the Middle School in Shankarpur, Nathnagar, on Tuesday night, in addition to four existing community kitchens.
Relief camps and community kitchens will be expanded as needed. Arrangements for relief camps are being made at Ganesh Basa, Sahu Brick Kiln, and Janvi Chowk, where food, drinking water, and health facilities will be provided. The administration urges people to avoid unnecessary travel near rivers and flooded areas, stay clear of rumors, and rely solely on official information.
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