FLOOD THREAT LOOMS OVER DIYARA REGION

FLOOD THREAT LOOMS OVER DIYARA REGION

19-AUG-ENG 1

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

BUXAR------------------------------The water level of the Ganga in Buxar is rising rapidly due to incessant torrential rain in the upper catchment areas and the swelling of tributary rivers. On Monday, a rise of 62 centimeters was recorded in the river's water level within a span of just eight hours. The pace at which the water is rising has heightened concerns among residents of the *Diyara* (riverine) and low-lying areas, with villagers now fearing imminent floods.

According to data from the Central Water Commission (CWC), the Ganga's water level in Buxar was recorded at 55.44 meters at 8:00 AM on Monday. Subsequently, the water level rose at a rate of approximately 8 centimeters per hour, reaching 55.76 meters by 12:00 PM. By 4:00 PM, it had risen to 56.06 meters. By evening, the water level was increasing at a rate of about 7 centimeters per hour.

Currently, the Ganga's water level remains below the warning level of 59.32 meters and the danger mark of 60.32 meters. Nevertheless, the rapid rise in water levels has alarmed the people of the *Diyara* region. With rain continuing in the upper catchment areas, further increases in the Ganga's water level are anticipated.

The impact of the rising water level is already visible in the low-lying areas and the *Diyara* region of Buxar. Floodwaters have reached agricultural fields in several locations, threatening hundreds of acres of standing crops, including maize and other *Kharif* crops. Villagers express concern that if the water level continues to rise at this pace, it could enter homes in the low-lying areas.

The continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas and the swelling of tributaries are directly affecting the Ganga's water level. The steady rise in the river's water is increasing difficulties for the villagers in the *Diyara* region. The administration and relevant departments are closely monitoring the water level.