Bhagalpur embankment collapses, Kosi floods low-lying villages

The flood situation in Bihar’s Bhagalpur district intensified after the Zamindari embankment at Sadopur in Rangra block collapsed on Tuesday morning, allowing water from the Kosi River to rush into low-lying areas. The breach caused water to spread rapidly across nearby villages, leading to large-scale inundation of homes, agricultural land, and roads.

The embankment had been under pressure for several days due to high water levels in the Kosi. According to local accounts, no significant repair or strengthening work was undertaken before the collapse. On Tuesday morning, a sizeable portion of the structure gave way, sending strong currents toward Sadopur and nearby settlements. Initial areas affected include Sadopur, Bania, Bhawanipur, and several smaller hamlets.

Authorities have warned that if the water flow continues at its current speed, Naugachia town could be inundated within hours. National Highway 31, which connects important routes in the region, is also at risk of flooding. This could disrupt both local transportation and long-distance movement of goods and passengers.

Evacuation efforts are underway in affected areas. Residents are moving household items to safer places, while several families have begun shifting to higher ground. Boats have been deployed to assist in rescuing stranded individuals. Women, children, and the elderly are being prioritised for evacuation. Farmers and cattle owners are also relocating livestock as the floodwaters rise in depth and spread further.

Teams from the local administration and the Water Resources Department are present at the breach site. Engineers are assessing the damage, but the swift water current is making immediate repair work difficult. Police personnel, relief workers, and boats are being used to control the situation and prevent loss of life. Officials have stated that all emergency measures are being implemented to contain the water spread and safeguard people in vulnerable areas.