Nitish Kumar Conducts Aerial Survey of Flood-Hit Bihar Districts
During the inspection, Nitish Kumar instructed District Magistrates (DMs) to ensure immediate distribution of relief materials, polythene sheets, medicines, dry ration, and cattle feed. He also ordered the deployment of boats for stranded residents and directed officials to follow the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for flood management.
Relief and Rescue Operations Underway
As per existing SOPs, ward members in affected panchayats are tasked with surveying and identifying impacted families before distributing aid. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are conducting ongoing rescue missions in high-risk areas.
With heavy rainfall recorded across northern Bihar, water discharge levels in major rivers have risen significantly. The Kosi River saw discharge through the Birpur barrage climb to 1.82 lakh cusecs, while the Gandak River at Valmikinagar registered 1.58 lakh cusecs, according to a Water Resources Department flood bulletin.
Heavy Rainfall and River Levels
Central Water Commission (CWC) data shows that in the past 24 hours, several locations received heavy rainfall: Munger (55.5 mm), Jhanjharpur (71.6 mm), Dalsingsarai (80.5 mm), Mahanar (54.9 mm), and Khagaria (112.3 mm).
Despite ongoing rainfall, water levels in major river basins are showing a falling trend. In Patna, the Ganga is flowing 40 cm below the danger mark, though still above warning levels at Gandhi Ghat (24 cm) and Hathidah (70 cm). In Munger, the Ganga is at the danger level of 39.33 metres but is gradually receding, a trend also observed in Bhagalpur and Kahalgaon.
Government’s Preparedness Call
The CM urged all concerned departments to remain on high alert for any emerging emergency situations. He emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts between district administrations and disaster management agencies to safeguard lives and property.
Bihar has faced recurrent flood challenges due to its geographical location and dependence on monsoon-fed rivers. The latest measures aim to ensure quicker response and minimize losses during the ongoing monsoon season.
