Mumbai, Aug. 27 -- The water level of the Ganga has continued to rise across Bihar, triggering flooding in low-lying areas of the state. The Central Water Commission has reported that river levels have risen above the danger mark at all major ghats in Patna, prompting concern among officials. Local administrations have been placed on alert as the situation evolves.
In view of the worsening situation, the Bihar government has formally urged the West Bengal government to open all the gates of the Farakka Barrage to facilitate the flow of the river and mitigate flooding upstream. Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary spoke by telephone to West Bengal Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari and apprised him of the gravity of the conditions along the Ganga in Bihar. The Bihar administration argued that fuller opening of the barrage gates could help lower water levels at critical points in the state.
West Bengal authorities reportedly indicated that prompt action would be taken to consider the request and to coordinate with downstream and central agencies. The Central Water Commission and state river control units are continuing to monitor inflow and outflow figures as they assess the impact of any adjustment to barrage operations. Officials emphasised the need for close inter-state communication to manage reservoir releases and riverine flows effectively.
District administrations in Bihar have been advised to maintain heightened readiness and to keep communities in vulnerable low-lying pockets informed of developments by official channels. Relief and disaster management agencies remain on standby to respond to any escalation, and river forecasts will guide further operational decisions in the coming days. Authorities have urged residents to follow guidance from local administrations and avoid unnecessary movement in flood affected stretches.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.