Flood-like situation in north Bihar

Samastipur, Jul 21: More than 25 villages in two blocks of this north Bihar district were inundated on Monday, July 21 affecting over 25,000 people following incessant rain, while several major rivers continued to remain in spate threatening embankments.

Official sources said as a result of continuous downpour for the past few days most of the major rivers in the district had started flowing above the danger mark causing flash flood in more than 25 villages under Singhia and Bithan blocks. Among the affected villages were Bagarhatta, Kirhar, Hardia, Mahara, Mirpur, Kundaldah and Bari Panchayat. The flash flood also rendered a large number of people homeless, and they were forced to take shelter in the nearby school buildings.

Standing crops worth several lakhs of rupees were also damaged.

However, the district administration immediately swung into action and provided dry food, drinking water and some emergency medicines to those affected. A number of boats were also pressed into service to rescue marooned villagers.

Moreoveor, round-the-clock vigil was being maintained to ensure that there was no breach in any embankment.

Even as the sky remained overcast, intermittent rain continued throughout the state, including in the capital city, where most of the low-lying areas remained waterlogged for more than a week now causing severe inconveniences to the people.

Meanwhile, Patna which has already experienced a record 300 mm rainfall since July 14, might receive more showers in the coming days, the local weather forecast said.

UNI