Flood Risk Increases in Asansol and Howrah Due to Heavy Rain

Continuous heavy rainfall and the release of large volumes of water from Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) reservoirs have caused significant waterlogging and flood concerns across Asansol, Burnpur, and rural Howrah. The rising water levels in the Damodar river have affected normal life in several blocks including Udaynarayanpur and Amta-2. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation as water flows downstream from the dams.

Impact of Rainfall and Dam Water Discharge

Asansol and surrounding areas faced severe waterlogging following persistent rainfall between August 16 and August 17. Reports indicate that water entered several homes in the Railpar area, while street flooding disrupted daily transportation across Burnpur. According to official data, Maithon Dam released approximately 29,000 cusecs of water, and Durgapur Barrage discharged about 1.15 lakh cusecs, significantly increasing the pressure on riverbanks.

Status in Howrah Rural Areas

Residents in Udaynarayanpur and Amta-2 blocks of rural Howrah are concerned about the rising water levels. Following an additional release of 38,000 cusecs of water, officials are tracking the flow of this water mass through the region. Despite these concerns, the irrigation department states that current embankments have been strengthened and the river's capacity to hold water has improved compared to previous years.

Government Monitoring and Safety Measures

District administration, police, and irrigation department teams are conducting continuous surveillance along the banks of the Damodar river. Engineers have been deployed to sensitive areas like Bakpota and Dihibhursut to manage potential risks. Residents living in low-lying villages near the river have been advised by the authorities to stay alert and move to safer locations if necessary.