Known to be the Sorrow of
Bihar, Kosi river has once again lived up to the epithet it has acquired over the years. This young river, which frequently changes its course has leashed the fury on the people of Bihar, this time in a never seen devastating manner. Kosi has shifted its course 120 km eastwards and has started flowing in its 300 year old bed which was abandoned due to the westward shift in the course of the river. The Kosi has a history of shifting westward. The westward shift of Kosi has been in phases thus did not cause damage to such an extent. As predicted by the Kosi experts, this eastward shift is sudden and turbulent and has caught people as well as authorities by surprise. The 2 km breach in the embankment of Kosi in Kusaha, Nepal has resulted in this catastrophe. The three districts of Supaul, Araria and Madhepura have been worst affected with more than 25 lakh people being homeless. The death toll has been reported to be 50 which is still expected to rise as this Katrina of India will take time to subside.
Efforts are on full swing to plug the breach in the bank and restore Kosi to its original course. The State government of Bihar and the Center are working hand in hand along with the government of Nepal to handle this crisis.
Last Updated on : October 12, 2016