Bhagalpur, Bihar, is experiencing a severe flood crisis as the Ganges River continues to swell, inundating both rural and urban areas. Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University (TMBU) is heavily affected, with its campus and key buildings submerged. The Professor Colony, located near the university, is completely flooded, stranding professors, teachers, and their families. Homes are flooded, disrupting daily routines. The PG Women’s Hostel had to be evacuated, and while the university administration provided initial relief, some faculty members in the Professor Colony are now essentially ‘water prisoners,’ with no safe exit or shelter.
Many families are evacuating their homes using carts and other temporary means, carrying their belongings and children to safer areas. People are also using carts to travel to college and departments. The colony residents are also concerned about the presence of dangerous animals. There are reports of venomous snakes like Russell’s vipers, which are likely to be more active in the floodwaters. There is also increasing risk of diseases. Contaminated water, unsanitary conditions, and mosquitoes are spreading infections and waterborne illnesses. The disruption of the drinking water supply is worsening the situation, leading residents to seek help from the authorities. While rescue efforts have commenced, the rising water levels continue to worsen conditions.
The ground report reveals that the flood situation is dire, with professors and their families struggling to protect themselves and their possessions. This disaster is no longer confined to rural areas, impacting the city’s higher education institutions and their staff. The Ganges River is currently flowing 40 cm above the danger mark in Bhagalpur, leading to flooding in urban areas. Professor Sanjay Kumar shared about the hardships faced by the residents. Professor Ambika Kumar from the Chemistry Department reported being trapped with his ailing mother, elevating their essential belongings to protect them. Women are worried about the spread of diseases from the contaminated water, and children are fearful of dangerous creatures. Cooking has become difficult. People are being forced to flee using carts as the situation continues to deteriorate.