Saptakoshi river levels rising; residents urged to stay alert

 

With continuous rainfall across the country, the water level of the Saptakoshi River is expected to rise, prompting the Sunsari administration to alert nearby residents to remain cautious.

On Saturday, a team comprising Chief District Officer Dharmendra Kumar Mishra, Superintendent of Police Keshav Kumar Thebe, the Armed Police chief, representatives from the Nepali Army, and members of the District Disaster Management Committee conducted an on-site inspection from the Saptakoshi Barrage to Chatara Bridge.

After the inspection, SP Thebe stated that while the river’s current flow is normal and there is no immediate risk, continuous monitoring is being maintained. He emphasized that, based on past experiences, sudden floods cannot be ruled out, and residents living close to the river should stay vigilant.

“The flow of the Koshi River is currently normal, but ongoing rainfall could cause the water level to rise,” SP Thebe said. “Residents in areas such as Chatara, Chakraghatti, Prakashpur, Madhuwan, and Bhantabari have been advised to exercise extra caution, especially at night.”

According to Inspector Divas Kunwar of Mahendranagar Police Station, a special team of 25 police personnel has been placed on standby to mitigate potential risks in areas surrounding the Saptakoshi. Local ward offices, Red Cross teams, and community development committees have also been informed to remain alert.

Chief District Officer Mishra urged residents living in flood-prone areas to move to safer locations if necessary, stay vigilant at night, and immediately report any unusual activity or rising water levels to nearby police or local authorities.

The Sunsari District Disaster Management Committee confirmed that it is regularly monitoring the Koshi River and rainfall in coordination with the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. The administration has also kept security personnel, boats, ambulances, and relief materials ready for emergency response.