The continuous heavy rainfall in Nepal’s Terai region and the increased water release from the Kosi Barrage have led to flooding in Bihar’s Mithilanchal region. The Kosi and Kamala Balan rivers in Darbhanga district are overflowing, resulting in widespread flooding in Kusheshwar Asthan East and Ghanshyampur blocks. As river levels rise, floodwaters have inundated villages, disrupting daily life for thousands of residents.
Four days after water was discharged from the Kosi Barrage, more than 20 villages in Darbhanga have been submerged, with six villages in Kusheshwar Asthan East block completely isolated. Villages like Itahar, Chaukiya, Lakshminiya, Baltharwa, and Basbaria are severely affected, along with Bharain Tola in Sughrain Panchayat. The rising waters have left residents stranded, with 13 boats deployed for transportation and supply distribution.
The flooding has severed road connections between affected villages and block headquarters, causing significant challenges for residents. Normal activities have come to a halt, making it hard for people to access essential services, markets, or medical facilities. Due to submerged roads, boats have become the primary mode of transportation, but villagers have criticized the lack of government-operated boats, leading to reliance on private operators for travel.
The flood crisis has also impacted schools, with Lakshminiya Primary School and Itahar Pokhar Primary School facing disruptions. Water has entered school premises, jeopardizing the safety of students and teachers. Block Education Officer Prince Kumar mentioned that if river levels continue to rise, both schools may need to close as a precautionary measure. In Ghanshyampur block, the Kamala Balan River has been rising steadily over the past week, prompting preparations for relief and rescue operations by the administration.
