How Are the Bihar Floods Affecting Residents? 12.58 Lakh Impacted, Over 12 Lives Lost
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Synopsis
Bihar is battling severe floods once again, with over 12 lives lost and 12.58 lakh people affected. The relentless rains from Nepal have caused rivers to overflow, displacing thousands and forcing them to seek refuge in boats. This natural calamity raises urgent questions about the state's preparedness and response strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Over 12 lives lost due to floods in Bihar.
- 12.58 lakh people affected across 230 panchayats.
- Rising river levels from Nepal's rainfall have exacerbated the situation.
- Relief efforts include over 1,000 boats and NDRF teams on alert.
- Call for long-term solutions to address the recurring floods.
Patna, Aug 11 (NationPress) Bihar is currently facing a significant challenge as it deals with severe flooding, exacerbated by heavy rainfall in Nepal that has caused river levels to rise beyond critical thresholds.
In regions from Bhagalpur to Begusarai, Khagaria, and Madhepura, residents in low-lying areas have resorted to using boats as they seek refuge from their submerged homes.
On Sunday alone, at least eight individuals, including a mother and her daughter, tragically drowned in different incidents across the Begusarai district. These incidents occurred in the Ganga river, ponds, or flood-affected regions, igniting frustration among the local population.
In Dhanaha Tola, Bhagalpur, 26-year-old Vandana Devi lost her life while attempting to rescue her 7-year-old daughter, Ananya.
A farmer named Dhiraj Kumar Singh (32) from Bijvian village was swept away while gathering fodder.
In East Champaran’s Chakia, Gautam Kumar (21) drowned while taking a bath.
In Bachhwara, Begusarai, Ashok Yadav (45) drowned while walking home due to the absence of boat services.
In Sahebpur Kamal, a 2-year-old girl named Anjali Kumari drowned after straying into floodwaters.
Meanwhile, in Matihani, 83-year-old Jagdish Singh drowned after accidentally slipping into the river near Bhavanandpur Ghat.
An official from the state disaster response force mentioned that the death toll may be even higher in the flood-stricken areas of Bihar.
"We currently do not have an accurate count of the deceased," he stated, choosing to remain anonymous.
Khagaria, which is enveloped by seven rivers, is among the most severely impacted regions. The rising waters of the Ganga, Gandak, and Bagmati have submerged large expanses of farmland and displaced thousands of residents.
The Ganga is now flowing 80 cm above the danger mark in Bhagalpur, leading to floodwaters invading the campus of Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University, submerging the Senate Hall and administrative building up to waist height.
Students and staff are now utilizing boats to access the university for essential tasks such as collecting migration certificates.
Though four small boats have been deployed by the administration, employees express concerns over the potential presence of venomous creatures in the floodwaters.
“This happens every year. The Bihar government must find a lasting solution,” stated Praveen Kumar, a university employee.
A proposal of Rs 15.48 crore to construct a protective wall was submitted to the state government but remains unresolved, according to the university's public relations officer.
The Disaster Management Department reports that approximately 12.58 lakh individuals in 230 panchayats across these districts are affected.
Over 1,000 boats are currently in operation for relief efforts, and 14 teams of the NDRF are on high alert.
Teams are stationed in Darbhanga, Supaul, Motihari, Nalanda, and Patna, with an additional eight teams prepared at the battalion headquarters.
“We are entirely ready to deploy at any moment,” declared NDRF 9th Battalion Commandant Sunil Kumar Singh.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the ongoing crisis in Bihar due to flooding. While natural disasters are unavoidable, the recurring nature of this phenomenon raises questions about the preparedness of the authorities. The need for long-term solutions and infrastructure improvements cannot be overstated. We stand with the people of Bihar during this challenging time.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the recent floods in Bihar?
Heavy rainfall in Nepal has led to rising river levels in Bihar, causing severe flooding in several districts.
How many people have been affected by the floods?
Approximately 12.58 lakh individuals in 230 panchayats across flood-affected districts are impacted.
What measures are being taken for flood relief?
Over 1,000 boats are in operation for relief, and 14 teams of the NDRF are on high alert to assist affected communities.
Is there an ongoing risk of more flooding?
Yes, with river levels still high, the risk of further flooding remains a concern.
What can be done to prevent future floods?
Investing in infrastructure improvements and developing a comprehensive flood management strategy are essential to mitigate future risks.
