In a relentless downpour that has disrupted normal life, North Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh have been battered by extremely heavy rainfall over the past 48 hours. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the region, warning of further intense showers in the coming days. The torrential rains have triggered widespread flooding, submerged farmlands, and forced thousands to evacuate their homes.
Unprecedented Rainfall
According to IMD officials, several districts in North Bihar, including Araria, Kishanganj, Purnia, and Katihar, have recorded over 300 mm of rainfall in the last two days. Similarly, eastern Uttar Pradesh districts like Bahraich, Gonda, and Siddharthnagar have also experienced rainfall exceeding 250 mm. The monsoon trough, combined with a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, has been cited as the primary cause of this extreme weather event.
Flood Situation Worsens
The heavy rains have caused rivers such as the Gandak, Burhi Gandak, and Kosi to swell alarmingly, breaching their embankments in multiple locations. In Bihar, the floodwaters have inundated over 100 villages, displacing thousands of families. Rescue operations are underway, with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams deployed to assist stranded residents.
In Uttar Pradesh, the Ghaghra and Rapti rivers are flowing above the danger mark, submerging low-lying areas in several districts. Reports indicate that over 50 villages have been cut off from the mainland, with residents relying on boats for transportation.
Humanitarian Crisis Unfolds
The flooding has led to a growing humanitarian crisis, with many families losing their homes, livestock, and crops. Relief camps have been set up in safer areas, but the sheer scale of the disaster has overwhelmed local authorities. “We are doing our best to provide food, water, and medical aid, but the situation is dire,” said a district official in Purnia.
The agricultural sector has taken a massive hit, with standing crops of paddy, maize, and vegetables destroyed across thousands of hectares. Farmers, already reeling from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, are now staring at another year of losses.
Infrastructure Damage
The incessant rains have also caused significant damage to infrastructure. Roads and bridges have been washed away, disrupting connectivity in the affected regions. In Bihar, the collapse of a key bridge over the Kosi River has further complicated rescue and relief efforts. Power outages have been reported in several areas, adding to the challenges faced by residents.
Health Concerns
With floodwaters stagnating in many areas, health officials have warned of the risk of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and dengue. Hospitals and health centers in the region are on high alert, and medical teams are being mobilized to prevent an outbreak.
Government Response
Both the Bihar and Uttar Pradesh governments have assured full support to the affected populations. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has directed officials to expedite relief operations and ensure the safety of residents. His Uttar Pradesh counterpart, Yogi Adityanath, has announced compensation for those who have lost their homes or livelihoods.
The central government has also stepped in, with Home Minister Amit Shah assuring assistance to the state governments. “The Centre is closely monitoring the situation and will provide all necessary aid,” he said in a statement.
Weather Outlook
The IMD has predicted that the heavy rainfall is likely to continue for the next 48 hours, with isolated areas expected to receive extremely heavy showers. Residents have been advised to stay indoors and avoid venturing into flooded areas.
A Call for Preparedness
As climate change intensifies, such extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common in India. Experts have called for better disaster preparedness, including improved flood forecasting, stronger embankments, and community awareness programs.
For now, the people of North Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh brace themselves for more rain, hoping for respite as they grapple with the devastating aftermath of this relentless monsoon.
Stay tuned to NextMinuteNews for the latest updates on this developing story.
