Heavy rainfall in Nepal’s catchment and Terai regions has led to a significant increase in water levels in several rivers in north Bihar, resulting in flooding in low-lying areas of West Champaran, Sitamarhi, and East Champaran.
Authorities are on high alert as the Gandak, Bagmati, and Dudhaura rivers are swelling, with nearly 2.32 lakh cusecs of water released from the Valmikinagar Gandak Barrage exacerbating the situation. This has caused rapid flooding in the Piprasi and Madhubani blocks of the Bagaha subdivision, affecting areas like Sisai and Chiurahi panchayats where over 300 houses are submerged.
Floodwaters have entered residential areas, disrupting normal life and causing damage to household belongings. As water levels rose abruptly, families evacuated their homes, seeking refuge in safer locations such as schools and elevated areas along the Dhanha–Ratwal main road.
The riverine (Diara) region is completely submerged, severing transportation links. Villagers, caught off guard, were unable to rescue essential items before their homes were flooded. They have criticized the delayed response of administrative officials and are demanding immediate relief assistance including food, water, medicines, and temporary shelters.
Madhubani Block Circle Officer Nandlal Ram refuted the allegations, stating that officials were dispatched promptly upon receiving flood reports. Relief efforts are underway, with officials assessing the situation and providing necessary aid to affected families. The Bagmati River in Sitamarhi and Sheohar districts is also experiencing a rise in water levels, posing a flood risk due to continuous rainfall in Nepal.
