The West Bengal government has issued a flood alert in several districts of South Bengal following the release of a significant volume of water by the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) from its dams. The move comes as a precautionary measure to address concerns about rising water levels in various rivers in the region.
The DVC’s decision to release excess water from its dams downstream triggered the alert. Approximately 1,00,000 cusecs of water were released, leading to a noticeable increase in the water levels of multiple rivers in East and West Burdwan, Birbhum, West Midnapore, Bankura, Hooghly, and Howrah districts. This surge in water levels has raised concerns of potential flooding in these areas.
To ensure preparedness and response to the emerging situation, the West Bengal government has taken several measures:
1. Control Rooms and Relief Materials:
District administrations have been directed to establish control rooms to closely monitor the situation. Relief materials, including essential supplies and resources, are being stockpiled to assist affected communities if flooding occurs.
2. Chief Secretary’s Meeting:
West Bengal Chief Secretary HK Dwivedi held a meeting with district magistrates to discuss the state’s flood preparedness strategy. During the meeting, the chief secretary emphasized the need for readiness, especially in light of the heavy rainfall forecasted until October 5. There is a particular concern about very heavy rainfall on Tuesday, which could exacerbate the flooding risk.
3. Continuous Communication:
Officials have been instructed to maintain regular communication with the DVC authority and counterparts in Jharkhand to coordinate the controlled release of water from dams. This collaborative approach is vital to manage water levels effectively and mitigate the impact of potential flooding.
4. Relief Material Readiness:
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had already convened a meeting with state officials earlier, where she directed them to ensure that all relief materials are readily available. Additionally, a 24×7 control room has been established at the district and subdivision levels to facilitate rapid response and coordination.
The decision to issue a flood alert in these South Bengal districts underscores the proactive approach of the West Bengal government in addressing natural disasters and safeguarding the well-being of its citizens. The unpredictability of weather patterns and the potential consequences of heavy rainfall necessitate vigilant monitoring and readiness.
As the situation continues to evolve, authorities will closely monitor water levels in the affected rivers and make necessary adjustments to manage the release of water from the dams. Efforts are underway to ensure that vulnerable communities are protected and that essential relief assistance is readily available should it be required.
Flood alerts and preparedness measures serve as a reminder of the importance of disaster management and coordination among government agencies to respond effectively to unforeseen challenges. While the immediate focus is on flood preparedness, the state government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its residents remains paramount.
