Kosi, Gandak, Ganga, and Mahananda Rivers in Spate; Flood Threat Intensifies from Supaul to Katihar
Patna: With the monsoon becoming active across Bihar, the water levels of several major rivers have risen sharply, increasing the risk of floods in many parts of the state. The Kosi, Gandak, Ganga, and Mahananda rivers are flowing above normal levels, raising concerns in several districts. The situation is particularly worrying in Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, and Katihar, where rising river levels have prompted authorities to remain on high alert.
The increasing water level of the Kosi River has already caused water to spread into low-lying areas of Supaul, Saharsa, and Madhepura. In Katihar, the water levels of the Mahananda, Ganga, and Kosi rivers have also risen, prompting district authorities to closely monitor the situation and strengthen flood preparedness measures.
The Water Resources Department and district administrations are keeping a constant watch on the river levels. Surveillance along vulnerable embankments has been intensified, while disaster management teams are preparing for any emergency. Authorities have urged residents to avoid rumors and rely only on official information.
Rising Kosi River Causes Concern
Continuous rainfall in Nepal's Terai region and northern Bihar has significantly increased the water level of the Kosi River. As a result, floodwaters have begun entering low-lying villages in Supaul, Saharsa, and Madhepura.
The rising water has also started affecting agricultural land, raising concerns among farmers about possible damage to paddy and other Kharif crops. Local residents fear that if the water level continues to rise, several villages could become disconnected from major roads.
Water Levels Increase in Katihar
The situation is also becoming increasingly serious in Katihar district, where the Mahananda, Ganga, and Kosi rivers are all witnessing a rise in water levels.
People living along the riverbanks are worried about possible flooding, while the district administration has intensified monitoring in vulnerable areas and instructed officials to remain alert.
Continuous Monitoring of Embankments
The Water Resources Department has deployed engineers and technical staff at sensitive embankments to monitor their condition around the clock.
Authorities are inspecting vulnerable stretches and carrying out preventive repair work wherever necessary. Sandbags, heavy machinery, and emergency equipment have also been kept ready to respond to any crisis.
Relief and Rescue Preparations Underway
The state government and district administrations have accelerated flood preparedness efforts. Boats, relief materials, food supplies, drinking water, medicines, and medical teams are being kept on standby for immediate deployment if required.
The Disaster Management Department has instructed officials in vulnerable districts to maintain constant vigilance and respond promptly to any emergency situation.
Farmers Concerned About Crop Damage
The rising river levels have increased anxiety among farmers as water has begun accumulating in agricultural fields in several areas.
Farmers fear that continued rainfall and further increases in river levels could cause significant damage to paddy, maize, and other Kharif crops, affecting agricultural production and livelihoods.
Public Advised to Remain Alert
Authorities have advised residents living near riverbanks to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary movement near flooded or waterlogged areas.
Parents have also been urged to ensure that children stay away from rivers and floodwaters. Citizens have been asked to contact local authorities immediately in the event of any emergency.
Weather Forecast
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), several parts of Bihar are expected to receive more rainfall over the coming days.
If rainfall continues in the upper catchment areas, river levels may rise further. Authorities are therefore maintaining close surveillance and preparing additional response measures if needed.
Health Department on Alert
The Health Department has also been placed on alert in anticipation of possible flooding. Medical teams, essential medicines, chlorine tablets, and other emergency healthcare supplies are being arranged to prevent waterborne diseases in affected areas.
Transportation May Be Affected
If river levels continue to rise, several rural roads may become submerged, disrupting transportation and connectivity.
District authorities are preparing alternative routes and logistics plans to ensure relief operations can continue without interruption.
Experts Stress Preparedness
Water management experts note that rising river levels during the monsoon are common in Bihar, but prolonged rainfall can significantly increase flood risks.
They have emphasized the importance of continuous embankment monitoring, timely evacuation planning, and rapid relief measures to minimize the impact on affected communities.
Administration Appeals for Public Cooperation
District administrations have appealed to the public not to believe or circulate rumors regarding the flood situation.
Residents have been advised to follow only official advisories and contact disaster management authorities or local administration in case of emergencies.
The rising water levels of the Kosi, Gandak, Ganga, and Mahananda rivers have heightened the flood threat across several districts of Bihar, particularly Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, and Katihar. Water has already started entering low-lying areas, prompting authorities to intensify monitoring and preparedness efforts. Relief and rescue teams remain on standby, while residents have been urged to stay alert and follow official instructions. The evolving flood situation will largely depend on rainfall in Bihar and the upper catchment areas over the coming days.
