Continuous Rain in Bihar and Nepal Swells Rivers, Water Levels Rise in Kamla Balan, Bagmati, Kosi, and Ganga; Flood Threat Intensifies in Several Districts
Patna: Continuous monsoon rainfall in Bihar and neighboring Nepal has significantly increased the water levels of several major rivers, raising the threat of flooding across many parts of the state. Over the past few days, persistent rainfall has caused the Kamla Balan, Bagmati, Kosi, and Ganga rivers to swell, increasing concerns in both North and Central Bihar. The Water Resources Department, Disaster Management Department, and district administrations are closely monitoring the situation, while officials in vulnerable areas have been placed on high alert and relief preparations have been intensified.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also forecast moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds across several districts over the coming days. Authorities have warned that continued rainfall could further raise river levels, increasing the risk of waterlogging and flood-like conditions in low-lying areas.
Rainfall in Nepal Directly Affects Bihar's Rivers
Experts say that most of Bihar's major rivers originate in the hilly regions of Nepal. Consequently, heavy rainfall in Nepal has a direct impact on river levels in Bihar.
Continuous rainfall in Nepal's catchment areas is sending large volumes of water downstream into Bihar, leading to a steady rise in the water levels of rivers such as the Kosi, Bagmati, Kamla Balan, and Gandak.
Water Level Rising in the Kamla Balan River
The Kamla Balan River, which flows through Darbhanga, Madhubani, and nearby districts, has witnessed a significant increase in its water level.
Residents living along the riverbanks have become increasingly concerned. In several locations, the river has approached embankments, while low-lying areas have already started experiencing waterlogging.
Local authorities have appealed to residents to remain vigilant and follow official safety advisories.
Bagmati River Also in Spate
The Bagmati River, which is crucial for districts such as Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Muzaffarpur, and Samastipur, is also witnessing a continuous rise in water level.
The Water Resources Department is closely monitoring the river. Officials have warned that if rainfall continues in Nepal, the Bagmati could approach or cross danger levels in some locations.
Residents living near the river have already been advised to remain alert.
Increased Flow in the Kosi River
The Kosi River, often referred to as the "Sorrow of Bihar" because of its history of devastating floods, is also carrying a significantly higher volume of water.
The increased inflow from Nepal has put pressure on the Kosi Barrage, prompting authorities to operate its gates as required to safely release excess water and maintain safe water levels.
District administrations in Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, Purnia, and Katihar are maintaining close surveillance over the situation.
Ganga River Water Level Also Rising
The impact of continuous rainfall is also visible in the Ganga River, where water levels have been steadily increasing.
Districts including Patna, Bhagalpur, Buxar, Mokama, Munger, and Begusarai have reported a gradual rise in the river's level. Although the river remains below the danger mark at many locations, authorities have intensified monitoring as the water level continues to increase.
Experts warn that if inflow from upstream areas continues to rise, the Ganga's water level may increase more rapidly.
Flood Risk Increases Across Several Districts
The possibility of flooding has increased in several districts of North Bihar, including Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, Araria, Purnia, Kishanganj, Katihar, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Sheohar, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, and East Champaran.
District administrations are closely monitoring riverside villages, and vulnerable areas have been identified for emergency response if required.
IMD Issues Weather Alert
The India Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds in several districts over the next few days.
The department has advised residents to remain indoors during severe weather, avoid open fields and standing under trees, and strictly follow lightning safety advisories.
Farmers Concerned About Crop Damage
While the rainfall is expected to benefit paddy cultivation initially, excessive rainfall and the possibility of floods have raised concerns among farmers.
If water remains stagnant in agricultural fields for a prolonged period, paddy, maize, vegetables, and other Kharif crops could suffer extensive damage. The Agriculture Department has advised farmers to plan their agricultural activities according to weather forecasts.
Administration Strengthens Preparedness
In view of the potential flood situation, the Bihar government has directed district administrations to remain fully prepared.
Rescue teams have been kept on standby, while the availability of boats, food supplies, medicines, drinking water, and other essential materials has been ensured. Authorities have also started identifying locations for relief camps in flood-prone areas.
Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
The administration has appealed to people living near riverbanks to avoid unnecessary movement around rivers and keep children away from waterlogged and flooded areas.
Residents have also been advised to rely only on official information issued by the administration and immediately inform local authorities or the Disaster Management Department in case of any emergency.
Continuous monsoon rainfall in Bihar and Nepal has caused the Kamla Balan, Bagmati, Kosi, and Ganga rivers to rise significantly, increasing the risk of flooding across several districts of the state. With the weather department forecasting more rainfall and thunderstorms, authorities have intensified monitoring and emergency preparedness measures. The coming days will be crucial, and residents have been urged to remain alert, follow official advisories, and avoid rumors while prioritizing their safety.
