Bihar floods affect nearly 50 lakh people across 15 districts

Flooding in Bihar has affected nearly 50 lakh people across 15 districts following heavy rainfall. While water levels in some rivers have begun to recede, several major rivers continue to flow above their danger marks.

Key rivers including the Ganga, Kosi, Budhi Gandak, Punpun, Bagmati, and Ghaghara are reported to be above danger levels at various locations. The Ganga was recorded at 36.19 metres at Sultanganj, while the Kosi remains above the danger mark at Baltara and Kursela.

In response, the state administration has deployed 27 State Disaster Response Force teams and 10 National Disaster Response Force teams. Relief efforts include the operation of over 1,200 community kitchens and 13 relief camps, providing food, medical care, and accommodation to more than 12,000 people. Authorities are also utilizing approximately 1,790 boats for evacuation and transportation.

Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary stated that a central team led by Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will visit the state to assess the situation. The government is reportedly seeking long-term solutions through improved water management and river conservation.