The flood situation in Bihar has reached alarming levels, affecting millions of people across multiple districts. The calamity has unfolded in two phases since last month, with the Disaster Management Department (DMD) reporting over 45 lakh people impacted in 30 of the state’s 38 districts. North Bihar, known for its vulnerability to flooding due to the Kosi, Gandak, and Ghaghra rivers, is experiencing severe inundation, exacerbated by heavy rainfall in Nepal and significant water discharge from local barrages.
Government Response and Protests
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has initiated financial assistance measures, transferring Rs 307 crore directly to the bank accounts of flood-affected families, providing Rs 7,000 per family. Despite this, discontent among the affected population has been rising, leading to protests in various districts like Muzaffarpur and Saharsa. Flood victims have expressed frustration over inadequate relief efforts, blocking roads and demanding more immediate support.
The government’s claims of adequate relief have been met with skepticism, as many residents have been living under makeshift plastic coverings and have received little to no aid. The protests have led to clashes with police, and reports of stone-pelting and lathi-charges have surfaced, revealing the desperation and challenges faced by the victims.
आज कोशी, गंडक एवं गंगा नदी के बाढ़ प्रभावित क्षेत्रों का हवाई सर्वेक्षण कर जायजा लिया। बाढ़ प्रभावित इलाकों में राहत एवं बचाव कार्य युद्धस्तर पर चलाने का निर्देश दिया। प्रशासन को पूरी तरह मुस्तैद रहने और लगातार मॉनिटरिंग करते रहने को कहा है ताकि लोगों को कोई दिक्कत नहीं हो। साथ… pic.twitter.com/Q88b757QIS
— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) October 1, 2024
आज 1 अणे मार्ग स्थित ‘संकल्प’ से प्रथम चरण की बाढ़ से प्रभावित 13 जिलों के 4.39 लाख परिवारों को डी०बी०टी० (डायरेक्ट बेनिफिट ट्रांसफर) के द्वारा सीधे उनके खाते में 7 हजार रूपये प्रति परिवार की दर से कुल 307 करोड़ रूपये की आनुग्रहिक राहत की राशि का हस्तांतरण किया। शेष बचे बाढ़ से… pic.twitter.com/eqVO33NtHn
— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) October 4, 2024
Impact and Relief Operations
As floodwaters spread to new areas, nearly 1.5 million people are now in dire need of assistance, with many stranded on rooftops and higher ground. Recent reports indicate that breaches in river embankments have worsened the situation, particularly in districts like Purnea, Supaul, and Darbhanga. Authorities have deployed multiple National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams for rescue operations, with approximately 260,000 individuals evacuated and relief camps established to accommodate the displaced.
The government has opened community kitchens and arranged for mobile medical teams to provide necessary health services. However, many flood victims continue to lack essential supplies such as food, water, and medical care.
Political Tensions
The political climate in Bihar has intensified, especially concerning the state’s handling of flood relief efforts. Tejashwi Yadav, Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, has criticized both CM Nitish Kumar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their inadequate response to the flood crisis.
Emergency Incidents
Amid these flood relief operations, an IAF Advanced Light Helicopter made a precautionary landing in a waterlogged area during its mission in the Sitamarhi sector. Fortunately, all personnel onboard, including two pilots, were reported safe and were later taken for precautionary check-ups. This incident underscores the complexities and risks associated with ongoing rescue and relief efforts in the heavily affected regions of Bihar.
Conclusion
As Bihar grapples with one of its worst flood crises, the combined efforts of the state government, local authorities, and various relief agencies are critical. However, the rising discontent among the affected population reflects a significant gap between government promises and on-ground realities. With continued rainfall and rising water levels, the situation remains precarious, necessitating immediate and effective intervention to alleviate the suffering of millions.
