New Delhi: Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have been placed on high alert after devastating flash floods in neighbouring Nepal raised concerns over rising water levels in rivers flowing into the two states. Authorities have begun evacuating people from vulnerable areas and stepped up monitoring along riverbanks and embankments.
The immediate concern is the Gandak river system. The Trishuli River, which receives water from the Bhote Koshi system, eventually flows into the Gandak. Heavy rainfall and increased water discharge from upstream areas could therefore push up water levels in parts of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Officials are also monitoring the Ghaghara, Rapti and Kosi rivers for possible rises.
In Bihar, authorities have issued alerts across several northern districts, including West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Muzaffarpur, Saran and Vaishali. Officials have inspected embankments and other vulnerable locations, while residents living close to rivers have been advised to remain alert and move to safer locations if required.
The situation around the Gandak is being closely watched. Bihar's Water Resources Department said the river's discharge peaked at around 1,50,200 cusecs late on Wednesday before declining. However, officials warned that water levels could rise again because of delayed rainfall in Nepal's Devghat region. Embankments are being continuously monitored and officials have so far reported no major damage.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary also left Patna on Thursday for an aerial survey of areas affected by the rising water levels. The survey is expected to provide a ground assessment of the situation and help officials identify locations requiring immediate intervention.
In Uttar Pradesh, authorities in border districts such as Maharajganj and Kushinagar have increased vigilance. Villages close to the Bihar border have reported waterlogging, with local administrations using loudspeakers to warn residents to move belongings and livestock to higher ground.
The Centre is also monitoring the situation. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken with the chief ministers of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh and assured them of central assistance. National Disaster Response Force teams have been kept ready in vulnerable areas for emergency operations.
Although officials say the situation remains under control in several areas, the threat has not passed. With rainfall continuing in parts of Nepal and northern India, authorities are maintaining round-the-clock surveillance and urging residents in low-lying and riverside areas to follow official advisories.
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