Gonda: Rising water levels in the Ghaghara River have heightened flood concerns across Gonda district, prompting the administration to intensify monitoring and preparedness measures. As of 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, the river’s water level was recorded just 17 centimetres below the danger mark, raising fears of possible flooding in several low-lying and riverbank villages.
District authorities have stepped up surveillance in the Karnailganj and Tarabganj tehsils, where officials are closely monitoring the evolving situation. Sub-Divisional Magistrates and other administrative officers have been conducting regular visits to vulnerable riverside villages, advising residents to remain alert and be prepared to move to safer locations if required.
The administration has activated all 28 flood monitoring posts across the district, placing them on high alert. Round-the-clock monitoring of the river is underway to ensure timely response in case of further rise in water levels.
According to officials, more than a dozen villages in Karnailganj and Tarabganj are vulnerable to flooding if the river continues to swell. In addition to the flood threat, the Ghaghara is causing rapid erosion of agricultural land and temporary structures along its banks. The Nawabganj area has reported the most severe riverbank erosion, increasing concerns among local residents.
The sharp rise in the river’s water level has been attributed to the release of large volumes of water from upstream barrages. By 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, a total discharge of 273,798 cusecs had been recorded, including 123,073 cusecs from the Girija Barrage, 146,172 cusecs from the Sharda Barrage, and 4,553 cusecs from the Saryu Barrage.
Jay Singh, Executive Engineer of the Flood Control Division, said the increase in water discharge from Nepal has led to the rapid rise in the Ghaghara’s water level. He warned that the river could move even closer to the danger mark by evening, prompting the department to remain on high alert.
He added that continuous advisories are being issued to residents of vulnerable riverbank areas. Officials have also confirmed that all embankments remain safe, while ongoing strengthening and maintenance works have been directed to be completed on priority to enhance flood protection.
The district administration has assured residents that relief and emergency response teams remain on standby, with all concerned departments working in coordination to respond swiftly to any deterioration in the flood situation.
