Bihar Flood Crisis Deepens As Ganga Crosses Previous High Flood Level In Patna

Patna: The Bihar government has issued a high alert in downstream districts and nearby regions along the Ganga after the river breached its previous highest flood level at Gandhi Ghat. Authorities have intensified monitoring and preparedness measures due to the elevated water levels and the potential danger to low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Diara lands, which are low-lying riverine pockets, are nearly entirely submerged. Heavy rainfall throughout the state, coupled with strong downstream flow from upstream rivers, has caused several major rivers - including the Kosi, Gandak, Punpun, and Sone - to surge above their respective danger levels. The Gaya-Patna railway section has been disrupted as coaches of the Sikkim Mahananda Express derailed near Arrah Station due to floodwaters, with no reported casualties.

Meanwhile, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has demanded that the Central government declare Bihar's flood situation a national calamity and release an immediate financial assistance of Rs 5,000 crore for the state. He accused the Centre and state government of lacking seriousness in addressing the severe flood situation, requesting that Air Force helicopters be made available for relief and rescue operations.

Tejashwi argued that a large portion of the area along the Ganga has been affected, with diara areas fully submerged and many people stranded on rooftops. He urged for the provision of relief materials and camps for the affected individuals. Tejashwi also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not taking the flood situation in Bihar seriously enough, urging him to visit the state at the earliest, assess the situation, and ensure central assistance for relief operations.