Bihar: Flood like situation in several parts of state

Several regions in Bihar are facing a severe flood situation following heavy rainfall and the subsequent discharge of water from the Kosi Barrage in Birpur.

Incessant rains in the catchment areas of Nepal have caused rivers in bordering districts to reach or exceed danger levels, exacerbating the flooding crisis. As a result, a significant volume of water has been released from both the Kosi and Gandak barrages due to the intense rainfall experienced in northern Bihar and across the border in Nepal.

The floodwaters have also impacted the Sitamarhi district, where a breach in the Mandar dam in the Belsand block occurred on September 29, further contributing to the inundation.

In Muzaffarpur, the Katra Bakuchi Power Grid has been submerged, leaving approximately 45,000 households without electricity. Following directives from department officials, power supply has been cut as a precautionary measure. Officials indicated that electricity would be restored once water levels recede.

Sunil Kumar, an engineer at the power station, reported that floodwaters have breached the control room of the power grid. “For safety reasons, we may need to shut down power supply to 22 panchayats in Katra block. This will affect around 42,000-43,000 consumers based on departmental instructions,” he stated.

Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of administrative response. “The administration is not active; no one has come to assess the situation yet,” lamented a Muzaffarpur local.

The Kosi River’s rising waters have engulfed many northeastern districts, severely disrupting daily life in Supaul. “Our homes are flooded; I have witnessed this level of flooding since 1961. No one has come to assist us,” said Joginder Mehta, a Supaul resident.

Another local voiced concern over the impact on agriculture and housing: “I’ve lived here since 1980; homes have been destroyed, and we are suffering significant agricultural losses.”