In photos: Flash floods in Bihar kill 10, leave millions stranded
Sudden and incessant rains have lead to flash floods in Seemanchal, a region of Bihar bordering Nepal. The major rivers in the region – Kosi, Mahananda, Gandak, Bagmati and Ganga have been flowing above the danger mark since the last two days. According to the authorities, some of the worst affected regions include Kishanganj, Araria, Purnea, Katihar, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Madhepura, Saharsa, Supaul, and East and West Champaran.
Life in regions such as Kishanganj, Katihar, Jogbani and Araria has come to a complete halt. Railway stations in these districts have been inundated with water, leaving 18 trains cancelled and scores of passengers stranded.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has sought help from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. Additionally, he has called in the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with the Indian army and air force to carry out relief and rescue efforts in the state.
As of now, nearly 10 people, including women and children, have reportedly lost their lives. Nearly two million have been affected by the current situation. Nonetheless, rescue operations are underway and authorities are trying to relocate people from low-lying areas to interim shelters.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the situation is expected to remain grim as the weather is likely to remain the same for the next 24 hours.
#Bihar: 12 districts effected by floods, 10 NDRF teams deployed, six more teams to join. Yesterday's #visuals from Supaul. pic.twitter.com/GUpBud1C0w
— ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2017
A view of the flooded Narkatiya Ganj Station in West Champarn in Bihar. (PTI)Villagers wade through flood waters in Kishanganj district in Bihar. (PTI)Villagers move to safer place from flood-hit Vaispara in Araria district of Bihar. (PTI)#Bihar Teams of National Disaster Response Force arrive in Patna, to leave for flood-affected areas pic.twitter.com/Mw0piZvd9F
— ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2017