New Delhi: The Central Government is closely monitoring the situation arising from flash floods in Nepal, with the possible downstream impact on the Gandak river in India prompting heightened vigilance in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to the Chief Ministers of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh and directed that all necessary precautions be taken in areas along the India-Nepal border that could be affected.
Shah said the devastation caused by the floods in Nepal was deeply tragic and expressed condolences to the families who lost loved ones. He said the Government of India stands with Nepal during the crisis.
Following the alert, local administrations, rescue teams and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been placed on high alert in vulnerable border areas. Bihar and Uttar Pradesh authorities have also initiated evacuation and other support measures for communities living near the border.
According to an advisory from the Central Water Commission (CWC) and media reports, a sudden rise in the water level of the Trishuli river at Furke Khola in Nepal—around 160 km from the Indian border—has been reported. The rise is suspected to be linked to flash-flood or glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) activity near the Nepal-China border.
The floodwaters are expected to move downstream through the Gandak river system, prompting authorities in the adjoining Indian states to maintain close surveillance.
Officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Jal Shakti and Ministry of Defence are coordinating and monitoring developments.
The CWC has reported that water levels in reservoirs on the Nepal side are declining and the situation is currently under control. Authorities have also said there is no need for panic.
Meanwhile, reports of Indian tourists missing in Nepal have emerged. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu has issued emergency helplines for Indians seeking assistance or information regarding those affected by the floods.
