Patna: The water resources department (WRD) on Friday intensified round-the-clock monitoring of key embankments, including the Saran embankment, following a rise in the Gandak river’s water level that has heightened flood concerns in districts along the river, an official communiqué said.All field officials have been directed to remain on alert and take immediate preventive measures if flood-like conditions emerge.The alert comes in the wake of a flood in Nepal on August 26, reportedly triggered by a glacial lake outburst in Tibet. The resulting surge is now flowing into the Gandak river system, raising the possibility of flooding in West Champaran, Gopalganj, Saran and Muzaffarpur districts, the state govt said.To safeguard embankments in vulnerable areas, the department has stepped up inspections and surveillance. A technical team led by a superintending engineer has been stationed at the Gandak barrage. As a precautionary measure, all 36 gates of the barrage have been opened to facilitate the smooth discharge of floodwaters entering from Nepal.The WRD said the situation is being monitored continuously from its headquarters, with regular instructions being issued to field officials to protect vulnerable stretches of embankments, including the Saran embankment.Officials have been asked to maintain a high level of preparedness to ensure any emergency is tackled promptly and to minimise potential damage to life, property and river infrastructure in the affected districts.
