Fluctuating Saptakoshi water levels spark fear among riverside residents
Summary
Fluctuating water levels in the Saptakoshi River have put riverside residents in Barahakshetra and nearby settlements on high alert amid forecasts of heavy rain in eastern Nepal. Local authorities and security agencies have stepped up preparedness as the Koshi Barrage opened multiple gates and water flow crossed 300,000 cusecs at times.
Key Points
- Saptakoshi’s water flow has been fluctuating sharply, triggering fear among residents living along the riverbanks.
- Police and local authorities are making public announcements and holding preparedness meetings to warn settlements in the Koshi area.
- The Koshi Barrage Control Room reported flows as high as 316,795 cusecs and opened 43 sluice gates due to the rising water.
- Residents still remember the 2008 embankment breach and are also worried after the recent Bhotekoshi glacial flood in Rasuwa.
