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Bihar Leader of the Opposition (LoP) and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Thursday expressed concern over the flash flood situation in Nepal, calling it a "truly horrific and painful incident," and urged the state government to step up monitoring in view of the potential impact on rivers and water bodies in Bihar.
Speaking to reporters, Yadav said, "A truly horrific and painful incident has occurred. Judging by the videos we saw yesterday of the flood areas showing people fleeing the scene, I feel the Bihar government needs to step up monitoring, and everyone needs to remain vigilant. There is a possibility that this could impact rivers and water bodies in Bihar as well." His remarks come amid growing concern over the flash floods that struck Nepal's Bhotekoshi River, which have killed at least 165 people while hundreds remain missing. According to the Nepal Tourism Board's preliminary data, a total of 579 travellers (466 foreigners and 113 Nepalis) are missing from the affected area, Nepal's disaster management authority informs. The Nepal flash floods led to an atmosphere of fear prevailing in the Uttar Pradesh-Bihar border in Kushinagar district. However, as floodwaters did not enter overnight, villagers breathed a sigh of relief in the morning. However, due to heavy rainwater accumulation along the routes connecting Shivpur, Basantpur, and Marchahwa villages in Kushinagar district and Bihar, small streams and drains overflowed, spilling water across the roads. Villagers were seen wading through the waterlogged roads, holding their footwear in their hands. Furthermore, due to the high water levels, the movement of small vehicles was completely halted, forcing villagers to rely on tractor-trolleys for commuting. Local administrations in nearby areas have issued warnings via loudspeakers, asking residents to move their belongings and livestock to higher ground amid reports of water release from Nepal. On the floods, Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav said, "Whenever water flows from Nepal, Bihar is the first to be affected. Regarding the damage incurred this time, the state government will conduct an assessment to provide compensation. Meanwhile, JDU MP Sanjay Jha says, "The key takeaway here is the need for a joint flood management plan between India and Nepal. We have long advocated for this--whether through constructing high dams in Nepal or adopting other measures--because the issue cannot be viewed in isolation. Water originates in Tibet (China), sweeps through Nepal, and eventually impacts India; therefore, an integrated approach is required... This situation serves as a warning for the future; without integrated planning, we face grave risks. "(ANI)
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