Nepal flash floods trigger alert across border districts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar

Flash floods triggered by sudden rainfall and the opening of barrage gates in Nepal have led to a high alert in adjoining districts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand. The deluge has resulted in dozens of deaths and the disappearance of nearly 400 people, including 105 Indians. The flash flood occurred near the border, about 200 km north of the India border, potentially causing water levels in rivers originating from Nepal to rise.

The Trishuli river, which receives much of its flow from the Bhote Koshi river originating from Tibet, is expected to be affected. The Gandak, Ghaghara, and Rapti rivers in Uttar Pradesh, and the Kosi river in Bihar, are also anticipated to be impacted. The Central Water Commission (CWC) advisory prompted the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to advise districts near the India-Nepal border along the Gandak river to remain vigilant and closely monitor the situation.

In Bihar, authorities have ordered the evacuation of residents in five low-lying districts, anticipating significant water inflow from the Valmikinagar barrage. The barrage's discharge has increased to nearly 1.44 lakh cusecs, and authorities anticipate a further rise to three lakh cusecs by the following morning. All 36 gates of the Valmikinagar barrage have been opened in stages, with officials expressing concern over the potential water volume expected in the next five-six hours.