Flood concerns have surged once again as the Central Water Commission (CWC) has identified 20 river sites across India under flood risk.
According to the latest flood bulletin released on Friday, three locations—one in Assam and two in Bihar—are already facing severe flood conditions, triggering emergency measures from state administrations.
The bulletin highlights how incessant monsoon rains have pushed river levels above danger marks in multiple regions.
Track real-time flood updates from the CWC here.
Assam Struggles Against the Deluge
In Assam, the situation has grown particularly serious along the Brahmaputra River.
Officials report that the river has breached danger levels at Neamatighat in Jorhat district, threatening low-lying villages and agricultural fields.
Several embankments in the district are under strain, increasing the risk of breaches that could worsen flooding.
A local government official in Jorhat said:
“We have deployed disaster response teams. Evacuation plans are ready in case the water rises further.”
Already, hundreds of families have shifted to temporary shelters as precautionary measures.
Bihar Grapples with Swelling Rivers
Meanwhile, in Bihar, the CWC bulletin identified two river sites under severe flood conditions.
The Ganga River is flowing above danger levels at Bhagalpur, while the Kosi River is swelling dangerously in Supaul district.
Floodwaters have inundated farmlands, roads, and several villages, forcing authorities to step up rescue and relief efforts.
Local reports indicate that crops on thousands of hectares are under water, adding economic distress to the humanitarian crisis.
A senior engineer from Bihar’s Water Resources Department said:
“Continuous rainfall in the upstream areas of Nepal and Bihar has increased the water levels of major rivers. We are working to prevent breaches in embankments.”
Widespread Impact Across India
Apart from Assam and Bihar, the CWC bulletin has flagged rising river levels in parts of Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Odisha.
While most sites are under watch levels, authorities remain vigilant.
Officials warn that with the monsoon expected to remain active, the flood risk in Assam and Bihar could extend to new areas if rain intensifies.
The CWC continues to issue forecasts and warnings to help states prepare evacuation and relief measures in time.
Vulnerable Communities at Risk
Floods in Assam and Bihar often hit vulnerable populations living near rivers.
In Assam, communities dependent on agriculture and fishing face significant losses when floods destroy crops and homes.
In Bihar, villages in the floodplains of the Ganga and Kosi rivers remain perennially threatened during the monsoon.
A farmer in Bhagalpur, Bihar, lamented:
“We live in fear every year. The flood comes suddenly and takes away everything we have.”
Relief workers stress that repeated floods worsen poverty and health issues in affected districts.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
Both state and central governments have intensified efforts to mitigate the crisis.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed teams in Assam and Bihar for rescue operations.
Temporary shelters, food supplies, and medical aid have been arranged in vulnerable areas.
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) is coordinating with local administrations for evacuations where needed.
Bihar’s Disaster Management Department is also monitoring embankments and river gauges closely.
A Bihar official said:
“Our teams are patrolling embankments round the clock. People in low-lying areas are advised to move to safer locations.”
Need for Long-Term Solutions
Experts urge that while emergency response is critical, India needs a long-term strategy to reduce flood risk.
They recommend better river management, stronger embankments, and community-based early warning systems.
Environmentalists warn that climate change is intensifying rainfall patterns, leading to more frequent and severe floods.
A hydrologist explained:
“Extreme rain events are rising. We must invest in flood forecasting and sustainable water management.”
The Road Ahead
As the monsoon progresses, the risk of flooding in Assam and Bihar remains high.
Officials and citizens alike brace for more rain in the coming days. Communities hope timely intervention can limit damage and save lives.
The situation in Assam and Bihar is a stark reminder of the challenges India faces as climate change and vulnerable infrastructure collide during the monsoon season.
For ongoing updates and safety advisories, visit the CWC website.