Patna: Continuous rainfall in the hilly regions of Nepal has led to a sharp rise in the water level of the Kosi River, prompting authorities in Bihar to remain on high alert.
According to the Kosi Barrage control room, the river’s discharge was recorded at 97,935 cusecs at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, with the water level continuing to rise. As a precautionary measure, 11 gates of the Kosi Barrage have been opened.
A significant increase in water discharge has also been recorded at Barahkshetra in Nepal, one of the major catchment areas of the Kosi basin. At 10:00 a.m., the discharge at Barahkshetra reached 123,000 cusecs, and officials indicated that the water level was still rising.
Experts believe that the discharge could cross 150,000 cusecs during the day if rainfall continues in the upper catchment areas.
Such a rise may increase the risk of flooding in areas located within the Kosi embankments. Officials of the Water Resources Department have activated monitoring mechanisms in vulnerable areas.
Chief Engineer Sanjeev Shailesh of the Birpur Water Resources Department said the rise in water levels is directly linked to rainfall in Nepal. He stated that engineers and field personnel have already been deployed at designated locations.
According to the department, Junior Engineers, Assistant Engineers and other staff members have been instructed to monitor sensitive embankments and vulnerable stretches of the river continuously.
Residents living within the Kosi embankments have expressed concern due to memories of previous flood disasters.
Bihar experiences severe flooding almost every year, particularly in districts located along the Kosi basin, affecting thousands of families and causing extensive damage to crops, homes and infrastructure.
The Meteorological Department has issued weather alerts for several districts of Bihar.
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds of 50–60 kmph are expected in Patna, Gaya, Jehanabad, Nalanda, Nawada, Sheikhpura, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Jamui, Khagaria, Saharsa, Madhepura, Supaul, Araria, Purnea, Kishanganj, Katihar, Bhagalpur and Banka districts.
Residents in these districts have been advised to remain vigilant because of the possibility of intense rainfall and lightning strikes.
Authorities have advised people living near rivers and low-lying areas to remain alert and follow instructions issued by the local administration.
Farmers, fishermen and residents in flood-prone regions have been urged to exercise caution, especially during periods of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
The situation along the Kosi River is being closely monitored, and further action will depend on rainfall patterns in Nepal and the subsequent rise in river discharge levels.
(IANS)
