Ganga River Surpasses Record Flood Level in Patna

Bihar is facing a critical flood situation as the Ganga River has crossed its highest recorded flood level in Patna, affecting approximately 10 lakh people across 16 districts. The state government has intensified rescue and relief operations amid rising water levels in major rivers, including the Ganga, Gandak, and Kosi, which are attributed to heavy rainfall in Bihar, neighboring Jharkhand, and Nepal. On Saturday, September 5, 2026, the Ganga River reached 50.53 meters at Gandhi Ghat in Patna, surpassing the previous record of 50.52 meters set in 2016 by one centimeter. Officials from the Water Resources Department noted the river rose by 10 centimeters in just four hours. The water level is forecast to rise further to 50.62 meters by Sunday morning, September 6, raising concerns for low-lying areas along the river and increasing the risk of inundation in nearby settlements. Residents have been advised to exercise caution and adhere to official instructions. The flood emergency extends beyond Patna, with rivers such as the Gandak, Kosi, Burhi Gandak, Punpun, and Ghaghra flowing above danger levels in various locations.