Torrential rain in the catchments of Nepal and a sudden release of water from Valmikinagar barrage have triggered flash floods in various parts of the district, inundating several villages.

Flash floods refer to the abrupt emergence of a great volume of water, usually caused by heavy rainfall or a man-made factor such as release of huge amount of water from a dam or a barrage.

The water level in the Bagmati has crossed the danger line at Kataunjha causeway in the district. The Gandak, too, poses danger following the rise in its level of water.

According to reports reaching the district headquarters, the Gandak is in full spate following the release of 90,000cusecs of water through the sluice gates of the Valmikinagar barrage.

The water level of the Gandak, Kosi, Budhi Gandak and Bagmati passing through the districts of north Bihar, particularly Muzaffarpur, has risen. Floodwaters of the Bagmati and the Gandak have gushed into Katra, Aurai and Gaighat blocks of the district and submer- ged a large number of houses.

Standing crops of maize and cereals have been washed away by the floodwaters.

According to Central Water Commission, flash floods have affected Abhimanpur, Babhangama, Raghopur, Harni, Benipur, Joki Khurd, Kashmiri tola, Madhuban, Mahuwara, Jivajor and Bharthuva villages under Aurai block and snapped all communication links.

The water level of the Bagmati and the Gandak are expected to rise further in the coming days. The approach roads in Benipur of Aurai block have gone under water.

Bagmati river project executive engineers Lal Jha said: “The Bagmati is rising dangerously in Katra block. However, the river is flowing below the danger mark at Chandoli. The water control board has put the flood-hit blocks on alert and asked the district authorities to make nece- ssary preparations.”

Acting district magistrate Amarnath Mishra said: “Apart from water resources department officials, I have requested the circle officers and the block development officers for necessary arrangements in view of flash floods in Aurai, Katra and Gaighat blocks. Mechanised and country boats are being arranged for flood-hit blocks to rescue villagers caught in the flood.”