50 houses washed away by Gandak river in West Champaran

Bagaha, Jun 16 (UNI) More than 50 houses were washed away after the embankment of Gandak river near Bahelia village was eroded in West Champaran district today.

Sub-divisional officer of Bagaha Enamul Haq told UNI that the Gandak became turbulent following release of more than 1.40 lakh cusec water from Balmiki Nagar barrage after level of water increased following heavy rains in its catchment areas during the last two days.

The strong current in the river began eroding its embankment washing out nearby 50 villages, he added.

'' In view of the gravity of the situation, local administration had launched major operation to evacuate the Bahelia village and shift the locals to nearby safer places'', Mr Haq said adding a team of engineers was camping at the spot to monitor the situation.

UNI XC-KKS KK RL KP2058