The Bihar flood situation has intensified, with more than 40 lakh people affected across 14 districts following heavy rainfall and rising water levels in several major rivers. According to the latest assessment by the Bihar Disaster Management Department, around 41.45 lakh people across 517 gram panchayats and 84 blocks have been affected.
The flood situation has been triggered by persistent rainfall in Bihar as well as heavy rainfall in catchment areas of Nepal. Several rivers, including the Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, Budhi Gandak, Punpun, Bagmati and Ghaghra, are flowing above danger levels at multiple locations.
14 Bihar Districts Affected by Floods
The affected districts include Patna, Bhojpur, Saran, Vaishali, Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Buxar, Samastipur, Munger, Katihar, Lakhisarai, Khagaria, Purnia and Arwal. Floodwaters have disrupted normal life, transportation and access to essential services in several areas.
The Ganga has been a major concern, particularly in Bhagalpur. At Sultanganj, the river reached 36.78 metres on September 9, surpassing its previous highest flood level of 36.75 metres recorded in August 2021. Officials said the trend at the gauge was stable at the time of the latest assessment.
Relief and Rescue Operations Underway
Authorities have stepped up relief and rescue operations across flood-hit areas. The Disaster Management Department reported that 27 SDRF teams and 10 NDRF teams have been deployed to assist with emergency response and evacuation.
The government has also established 15 relief camps, providing accommodation, food, medical care and other essential services to evacuated residents. Around 13,446 people were being accommodated at these camps, according to the latest bulletin.
In addition, hundreds of community kitchens are operating to provide meals to flood-affected residents. Boats are being used extensively for evacuation and transportation in areas where roads have been inundated.
More Rain May Keep Situation Challenging
Bihar recorded rainfall above normal during September, while weather officials forecast additional rainfall in parts of the state. This could keep pressure on already swollen rivers and increase the risk of further flooding in vulnerable areas.
Authorities are continuing to monitor river levels, barrage discharges and embankments while coordinating rescue, food distribution and medical assistance. Residents in flood-prone areas have been advised to follow official instructions and move to safer locations whenever evacuation is ordered.
