The fertile fields of Bihar, known for their flourishing crops, are tragically transformed into wastelands laden with heaps of sand when the annual floods of the Kosi River strike. This recurring natural disaster leaves the people of Bihar feeling helpless as they struggle to cope with the river's destructive force. The Kosi River, a source of both blessing and curse for the region, can bring joy to farmers when it flows peacefully, only to suddenly unleash its ferocious form, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

The Kosi River, often referred to as the lifeline

The significance of the Kosi River is mentioned in the Vedas and Puranas. Many writers, including Phanishwar Nath Renu, have extensively written about the Kosi. The land in the areas of Bihar through which the Kosi flows is highly fertile, and crops flourish there. This is why the Kosi is also known as the lifeline of Mithila and the cradle of Mithila's culture. However, as much as this river brings joy, its destructive form can also cause great pain.

When Kosi assumes a furious form

When the Kosi River assumes a furious form, it destroys everything. Thousands of people become homeless, and dunes are formed in the fields, making it difficult to farm there. Due to its destructive nature, Kosi is also known as the 'Sorrow of Bihar'. The river has caused significant uncertainty in a large state area, leaving people in constant doubt.

The dam has broken 8 times

When the Kosi River assumes a furious form, it destroys everything. Hundreds of thousands of people become homeless, and sand dunes are formed in the fields, making it difficult to farm there. Due to its destructive nature, Kosi is also known as the 'Sorrow of Bihar'. This river has caused so much uncertainty in a large state area that people always remain in doubt.

Why is the devastation not ending...?

The ongoing challenge of mitigating the devastation caused by the Kosi River in Nepal has persisted despite concerted efforts by the Nepalese and Indian governments since gaining independence. The initial endeavour commenced in 1954, focusing on flood control through the construction of dams, embankments, and river training programs. Subsequently, numerous embankments and barrages were erected to regulate water flow. However, these measures have proven inadequate, prompting scrutiny of their efficacy and the overall relief and rescue operations.

Why is there a bigger danger this time?

The increased level of danger this time is attributed to the release of 6.61 lakh cusecs of water from the Birpur (Nepal) barrage on the Kosi river, marking the highest release in 56 years. This volume is approximately three times more than in 2008 and represents the highest release since the 7.88 lakh cusecs in 1968. Additionally, the release of 5.62 lakh cusecs of water from the Valmikinagar barrage on Gandak is the highest since 2003.

13 districts were badly affected

Thirteen districts, including Buxar, Bhojpur, Saran, Patna, Samastipur, Begusarai, Munger, and Bhagalpur, located along the banks of the Ganga River, are currently experiencing flood-like conditions. Approximately 13.5 lakh people residing in low-lying areas have been affected by the rising water levels caused by heavy rains. Many individuals have been evacuated from these districts and relocated to relief camps.