Patna, Sep 11
The flood situation in Bihar's West Champaran district, particularly in the Bairia block, is alarming due to the rising water levels of the Gandak River and severe soil erosion threatening embankment.
The erosion threatens the embankment near Bettiah, creating a significant flood risk for the surrounding villages. Despite the villagers' repeated complaints, the response from the water resource department appears inadequate.
The officials from the Water Resources Department acknowledged the gravity of the situation and claimed that they had initiated anti-erosion measures with urgency.
“Sandbags are being deployed along the Gandak River to curb soil erosion, with a strong emphasis on protecting the embankment. Our primary objective is to safeguard the embankment, and any officials who ignore villagers' complaints will face action,” said Sanjay Kumar Singh, the Executive Engineer of the Water Resources Department in Bettiah.
The villagers claimed measures taken by the water resource department are not adequate. They have placed sandbags, but are insufficient to prevent erosion. The situation is such that there is a narrow gap between the river and the embankment.
“The villagers are in a panic as the situation is continuously deteriorating, and there is an urgent need for more effective intervention to prevent potential disaster,” said R.C. Singh, a villager of Singhi Gram Panchayat which comes under Bairia block.