Bihar flood crisis: 50 lakh affected, 576 gram panchayats inundated
More than 50 lakh people have been affected by floods across 15 districts of Bihar, with 576 gram panchayats inundated as several rivers continue to flow above danger levels, officials said on Wednesday.
According to the state Disaster Management Department, around 50.49 lakh people have been impacted by the flooding in Patna, Bhojpur, Saran, Vaishali, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Buxar, Samastipur, Munger, Katihar, Lakhisarai, Khagaria, Purnea, Madhepura and Arwal districts.
The Kosi river remains above the danger mark at Baltara and Kursela, while the Ganga has crossed the danger level at Kahalgaon.
Authorities are operating six relief camps, where 7,714 displaced people are being provided shelter, food and medical assistance. Three community kitchens are also functioning and have served around 1.96 crore meals to flood-affected residents so far.
Relief and rescue operations involve 27 State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams and eight National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, with 391 boats deployed across affected areas.
Bihar has received 661.9 mm of rainfall since June 1. Despite the ongoing flood situation, the state has recorded rainfall that is 29 percent below normal, according to the weather office.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast light to moderate rainfall at many places in Bihar, with heavy rain likely at some locations between September 23 and 26.
