Patna, June 22: Continuous rainfall in the hilly regions of Nepal has led to a rapid increase in the water levels of the Kosi River, prompting authorities in Bihar to issue a high alert.
According to the Kosi Barrage Control Room, the river’s discharge was recorded at 97,935 cubic feet per second as of 10 AM on Monday, and the water level continues to rise. As a precaution, 11 gates of the Kosi Barrage have been opened.
In the Barah area of Nepal, a significant increase in water flow has also been noted, with the discharge reaching 123,000 cubic feet per second by 10 AM. Officials indicate that the water level is still on the rise.
Experts warn that if rainfall persists in the upper regions, the flow could exceed 150,000 cubic feet per second during the day. This situation heightens the risk of flooding in areas near the Kosi embankments. The Water Resources Department has activated monitoring systems in vulnerable areas.
Sanjeev Shailesh, Chief Engineer of the Birpur Water Resources Department, stated that the increase in water levels is due to the ongoing rainfall in Nepal. He confirmed that engineers and field personnel have already been deployed.
The department has instructed junior engineers, assistant engineers, and other staff to maintain continuous surveillance of the embankments and sensitive regions.
Residents living within the Kosi embankments are expressing concerns based on their experiences from previous floods.
Every year, heavy flooding occurs in districts adjacent to the Kosi River in Bihar, affecting thousands of families and causing significant damage to crops, homes, and infrastructure.
The Meteorological Department has issued weather alerts for several districts in Bihar.
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and winds of 50-60 km/h are expected in Patna, Gaya, Jehanabad, Nalanda, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Jamui, Khagaria, Saharsa, Madhepura, Supaul, Araria, Purnia, Kishanganj, Katihar, Bhagalpur, and Banka.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow the directives of local authorities.
People living along riverbanks and in low-lying areas are urged to exercise extreme caution. Farmers, fishermen, and those in flood-prone regions are also advised to stay alert during heavy rains and storms.
The situation of the Kosi River is being closely monitored, and further actions will depend on rainfall in Nepal and the river’s water levels.
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