Over 7 districts likely to be flooded due to Farakka Barrage opening

More than seven districts across the country are at risks of being flooded after India has opened all the gates of Farakka Barrage on Monday, reportedly for worsening flood situation in Bihar and Jharkhand.

Citing the barrage authorities, Indian news outlet News18 confirmed the information on Monday afternoon.

The opening of the gates may cause flooding in Bangladesh's Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, Pabna, Sirajganj, Kushtia, Rajbari, Manikganj, and surrounding districts. In addition, India's Murshidabad in West Bengal is also at risk of flooding.

According to News18, the Farakka Barrage was under pressure due to heavy rainfall in Bihar and Jharkhand, combined with the water released from these regions. The barrage has exceeded its danger level, prompting an increase in daily water discharge. As a result, 11 lakh cusecs of water have been released.

A source from the Farakka Barrage Project mentioned to News18 that due to the significant rainfall in Bihar and Jharkhand, as well as the rising water level in the Farakka Barrage, all gates have been opened to release the incoming water. The water level has already crossed the danger mark, and the barrage has no capacity to hold the excess water, forcing the authorities to release it to prevent potential damage to the barrage itself.