Road Construction Minister E. Shailendra Issues Strict Warning Over Raghopur Embankment Safety; Rescue Work Ordered on War Footing
Patna/Raghopur: Amid the growing threat of floods in Bihar, the state government has intensified monitoring of embankment safety measures. In this regard, Road Construction Minister E. Shailendra inspected the security arrangements of the Raghopur embankment and directed officials to ensure that the structure remains protected under all circumstances. He made it clear that negligence in protecting the embankment would not be tolerated.
The minister issued a strict warning to engineers and officials, stating that maintaining the safety of embankments is their responsibility. He said that if the embankment suffers damage due to negligence during floods, strict action will be taken against the responsible officials. He even warned that their jobs could be at risk in such a situation.
Inspection of Raghopur-Kajikoraia Embankment
On Friday, Road Construction Minister E. Shailendra inspected the Raghopur-Kajikoraia embankment and reviewed the ongoing protection work in erosion-affected areas. During the visit, he assessed the ground situation, river water levels, extent of erosion, and the progress of ongoing safety measures.
The minister sought detailed information from engineers and departmental officials about the current condition of the embankment. He instructed them to treat embankment protection as the highest priority and take effective measures to prevent any possible damage.
Instructions for War-Footing Erosion Control Work
The minister directed officials to speed up erosion-control activities and ensure that there is no delay in preventive measures. He ordered that geo bags be installed on a war footing in erosion-prone areas.
He stated that a target has been set to install approximately 25,000 geo bags within the next two days. Along with regular geo bags, large-sized mega geo bags will also be placed in sensitive locations to effectively control erosion caused by strong river currents.
The minister said that the use of large geo bags would strengthen the embankment and provide better protection against river erosion.
Focus on Strengthening Safety Before Floods
Every year during the monsoon season, rising water levels in Bihar's rivers increase pressure on embankments. Areas located near rivers often face serious erosion problems during this period.
The Raghopur area is also being closely monitored due to erosion concerns. The minister emphasized that preventive preparation before floods is more important than carrying out relief work after damage occurs.
He instructed officials to identify vulnerable points along embankments and take precautionary measures in advance.
Accountability Fixed for Officials
During the inspection, the minister emphasized the responsibility of officials and said that embankment protection is not just a departmental duty but is directly linked to the safety of people's lives and property.
He stated that a breach in the embankment could create serious problems for thousands of residents. Therefore, engineers and officials must remain alert at all times.
The minister instructed officials stationed in the area to regularly inspect the embankment and immediately report any problems to senior authorities.
Protection of Local Residents a Government Priority
A large number of people live in villages around the Raghopur area, and their safety is directly connected to the condition of the embankment.
The minister said that protecting people from floods and erosion is a top priority of the government. He assured that all necessary resources are being provided for effective flood-control measures.
Officials were instructed to ensure that there is no shortage of materials or resources during rescue and protection work. Additional resources will be arranged whenever required.
Use of Geo Bag Technology for Erosion Control
Geo bag technology is widely used to control river erosion. Under this method, strong geotechnical bags filled with sand or soil are placed along river banks to reduce the impact of strong water currents.
This technology is being used at the Raghopur embankment as well to control erosion. Officials believe that timely installation of sufficient geo bags can help protect the embankment from damage.
Hope Among Local Residents
Following the minister's inspection and instructions to speed up protection work, local residents have expressed hope for improved safety measures. People believe that timely action to control erosion can significantly reduce the threat of floods.
Residents have requested the administration to maintain continuous monitoring and take immediate action whenever required.
Government Monitoring Embankment Safety
The Bihar Government is maintaining special vigilance over major embankments during the monsoon season. Officials from concerned departments have been instructed to regularly monitor vulnerable areas.
The Raghopur embankment issue is also being handled as a priority. The minister has made it clear that strict action will be taken against officials responsible for any negligence in embankment protection.
At present, protection work on the Raghopur-Kajikoraia embankment has been accelerated. With the target of installing 25,000 geo bags and using mega geo bags in critical areas, the administration hopes to effectively control erosion and protect the region from the possible threat of floods.
