Gaya: Rising water levels in the Dardha, Morhar, Falgu and Baldaiya rivers disrupted traffic and inundated low-lying areas in South Bihar, including Jehanaabad, on Tuesday, while a major rail mishap was averted on the Gaya-Koderma section after rain-triggered debris fell on the tracks.In Gaya, a major rail mishap was averted late Monday night after a portion of a hill collapsed on the railway track in the Gurpa-Gujhandi valley on the Gaya-Koderma section following heavy rain. The driver of a goods train spotted rocks and debris on the track and applied emergency brakes, preventing a collision.Some trains scheduled to pass through the section were stopped at different stations as a safety measure. They were allowed to proceed after the debris was cleared and safety checks were completed.In Jehanabad, rising water levels in the Dardha, Morhar, Falgu and Baldaiya rivers caused concern in several low-lying areas and settlements along the riverbanks. The Dardha was flowing over the Jafarganj-Shyamnagar bridge, a key link between the eastern and western parts of Jehanabad town, disrupting traffic on the route. Commuters were forced to take alternative roads, while movement on the Jehanabad-Kurtha road was also affected.Low-lying areas, including Jafarganj, Horilganj and Ambedkar Nagar, were inundated. Water entered makeshift houses in slum areas and homes located close to the river, prompting affected families to shift essential belongings to safer places.The footbridge near Old Police Station Road was also submerged, affecting local movement. In Shakurabad, the Morhar started flowing over a bridge, following which movement on the Jehanabad-Kurtha road was stopped.Jehanabad administration is monitoring the Falgu and Baldaiya rivers as well. Officials said water levels had risen in low-lying areas along the Falgu, causing concern among residents of nearby villages and settlements. District magistrate Tshering Y Bhutiya said people living near rivers and in low-lying areas had been advised to remain alert.“There has been an increase in the water level of the Punpun due to a rise in the Ganga. The situation is being monitored closely. Barricades have been placed at vulnerable points and people are being alerted through public announcements not to go near the rivers,” she said.Bhutiya said there was no immediate forecast of a further rise in water level due to heavy rain in Jharkhand. “The situation may continue for around two days, after which the water is expected to recede. It cannot be termed a flood as of now as no rescue or relief operation is required. Officials are maintaining round-the-clock vigil on river levels and low-lying areas,” she said.
