The Ganga river has surged past its highest flood level at Patna’s Gandhi Ghat, triggering alarms across Bihar as more than 1.9 million people grapple with rising waters. Officials warn that downstream districts could face even greater threats in the coming days.

Key facts

  • Over 19.57 lakh people affected across 11 districts
  • Ganga crossed Highest Flood Level at Gandhi Ghat, Patna
  • 10 NDRF and 27 SDRF teams deployed for rescue operations
  • 110 community kitchens serving food to nearly 2 lakh people

Rising Waters, Rising Concerns

Water levels at Hathidah and other gauge stations may soon break previous records, keeping disaster response teams on edge. The State Water Resources Department has called for heightened vigilance in riparian areas including Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Bhagalpur, and Katihar.

“In view of the surge in water levels moving downstream from Gandhi Ghat, officials and field staff have been instructed to remain alert and continuously monitor the levels,” said a department official.

Relief in Motion

Amid the crisis, relief operations are scaling up. Community kitchens have already served food to 1.98 lakh people, while polythene sheets and dry ration packets are being distributed to displaced families. More than 1,300 boats are navigating waterlogged areas, ferrying residents to safety.

Political Appeals and Ongoing Challenges

Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav has urged the central government to declare the floods a national disaster, requesting ₹5,000 crore in special assistance and Air Force support for rescue operations. He emphasized the severe damage to public infrastructure and criticized the state’s response capacity.

With rainfall forecasts predicting further downpours, the situation remains fluid. Rivers including the Gandak, Kosi, and Son are flowing above danger levels, testing the resilience of Bihar’s flood management systems.