Uttar Pradesh: Rapti River flows above danger mark in Gorakhpur, 30 villages affected

The Rapti River in Gorakhpur is currently flowing above the danger mark, putting around 30 villages in the district at risk of flooding. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a partly cloudy week for Gorakhpur, with occasional rain and thunderstorms expected due to the heavy rainfall across the state. In response, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials in the affected regions to promptly carry out relief efforts.

CM Adityanath urged officials to visit the impacted areas, ensure effective relief operations, and provide necessary support to those affected. He addressed the families suffering from the disaster, instructing officials to deliver appropriate financial aid to those who lost their animals and homes.

Following heavy rains on September 26, many schoolchildren and farmers have faced challenges due to damages to paddy crops. Last week, the IMD had issued warnings for severe rainfall in Uttar Pradesh.

In Kushinagar district, the water level of the Narayani Gandak River began to drop on Monday, offering some respite to flood-affected villages. Areas such as Salikpur, Vishesharpur, and Mahadeva have seen the floodwaters recede, enabling residents to return home, although many places remain flooded, and recovery efforts are still underway.

Residents in the flood-hit regions shared their relief as water levels declined. Dharamveer Yadav, a flood victim from Mahadeva village, remarked, “People were anxious about their tied animals and small children. The water has drained this morning, and people are starting to return.” He also noted the presence of medical teams checking on the health of the residents.

Dr. Suresh Pataria, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Kushinagar, stated that health teams are actively assisting in the affected villages. “The water levels rose sharply due to recent rains. Our team is visiting these areas, setting up medical camps, and providing treatment to those in need,” Pataria said. He also warned that with decreasing water levels, there is an increased risk of diseases, and his teams are prepared with necessary medications, including anti-snake venom and anti-rabies treatments.