Bihar is grappling with a severe flood crisis as the Ganga river has surpassed its highest recorded flood level in Patna. The escalating situation has impacted more than 2.2 million people across 12 districts, prompting extensive rescue and relief operations.
Ganga River Reaches Unprecedented Levels in Patna
On Sunday, the Ganga at Gandhi Ghat in Patna was recorded flowing at 50.57 metres at 6 AM, exceeding its previous highest mark of 50.52 metres set on August 21. This unprecedented rise follows heavy rainfall in Bihar and neighboring Jharkhand, pushing several major rivers above danger levels.
Widespread Disruption and Rescue Efforts
The floods have severely disrupted daily life and essential services. East Central Railway has cancelled and diverted multiple trains due to alarming water levels at a bridge connecting Punpun and Parsa Bazar stations on the Patna-Gaya section.
Authorities have mobilized significant resources to address the crisis. A total of 1,429 boats are actively involved in evacuating residents from flooded areas. Twenty-seven teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and ten teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are deployed across the affected regions. To provide immediate aid, 190 community kitchens are operating, offering food and shelter to those displaced.
Affected Districts and Other Rivers Above Danger Mark
The districts most severely affected include Patna, Bhojpur, Saran, Vaishali, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Buxar, Samastipur, Munger, Katihar, Lakhisarai, and Arwal. Officials report that approximately 22.42 lakh individuals have been impacted in these areas.
Beyond the Ganga, several other rivers are also flowing above their danger marks. These include the Gandak at Dumariaghat and Hajipur, the Kosi at Baltara and Kursela, the Budhi Gandak at Khagaria, the Punpun at Sripalpur, the Bagmati at Benibad, and the Ghaghra at Darauli.
Rainfall Forecast and Vigilance
Bihar has received 69.1 mm of rain in September so far, marking a 55 percent increase above normal levels. The Water Resources Department has issued an advisory, warning that the Ganga at Hathidah could also cross its previous highest flood level in the coming days. Consequently, officials have been directed to maintain heightened vigilance in Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Bhagalpur, and Katihar.
Local administrations are tasked with continuously monitoring river levels, inspecting embankments, and identifying vulnerable areas. Residents in flood-prone regions have been advised to avoid rivers and ensure boat operations adhere to safety protocols, preventing overloading.