Nepal floods put India's Bihar, UP on alert over possible river surge

Authorities in India's Bihar and Uttar Pradesh stepped up vigilance today (26 August) as flood-hit Nepal raised concerns over a possible surge in rivers flowing downstream into the two states.

Bihar's Disaster Management Department warned that a flood wave of up to three metres could enter the Gandak River, and asked authorities in districts along the river to remain on high alert.

Districts bordering Nepal have been directed to complete rescue and relief preparations and closely monitor the situation, according to a statement issued by the department today.

Special vigilance has been ordered in Bihar's West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Saran, Muzaffarpur and Vaishali, as well as other vulnerable districts including Sitamarhi and Sheohar.

Officials have been asked to monitor water levels in the Gandak and other rivers, along with embankments, low-lying areas, bridges and other vulnerable locations, and to alert local communities in time if the situation worsens.

Authorities are also making arrangements to deploy a National Disaster Response Force team in Bettiah, the statement added.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed concern over the situation and directed the administrations of Maharajganj and Kushinagar districts to take necessary measures to deal with any potential emergency.

Maharajganj shares a border with Nepal, while Kushinagar lies adjacent to the district.

The alerts came after flash floods hit two central districts of Nepal, causing extensive damage to settlements and affecting hydropower projects.

The situation in Nepal has raised concerns about possible downstream impacts in neighbouring parts of India, particularly along rivers originating in or flowing through Nepal.