Lucknow: The flood situation in Uttar Pradesh is getting worse, with more than 16,000 people evacuated from vulnerable areas as swollen rivers and heavy rain continue to disrupt normal life across the state. At least three people have died in rain related incidents, while rescue and relief teams are working in several districts.
Officials said 16,784 people have been evacuated so far, including 3,042 people rescued on Wednesday. Flooding is currently affecting 23 districts, while 35 districts have reported some impact from the rising water levels.
The administration has deployed 1,499 boats and motorboats for rescue operations and set up 1,311 flood shelters. More than 1,000 medical teams have also been sent to affected areas to provide treatment and prevent the spread of water borne diseases.
Among the areas facing serious problems is Ballia, where rising levels of the Ganga and Saryu rivers have affected around 20,500 people. Rescue boats have been deployed and relief supplies, including food and medicines, are being distributed.
In Chitrakoot, around 150 people were rescued from Chaura village after floodwater from the Mandakini river entered the area. Rescue teams used motorboats to move residents to safer locations, while food and medical assistance were provided.
The situation in Pilibhit is also being closely monitored. The Sharda, Deoha and Khakra rivers are rising, with a large volume of water released into the Sharda from Banbasa. Flooding has affected roads and bridges, with the submerged Khakra bridge cutting off around 18 villages. Schools for Classes 1 to 8 have been closed in the affected area.
In Lakhimpur Kheri, authorities are keeping a close watch on river erosion and have started shifting families from areas at risk. The Sharda river at Palia was reported to be 35 cm above the danger mark, although officials said the level was steady.
The floods have also affected livestock, with 36,287 animals reported affected. Relief teams have distributed thousands of food and ration packets, along with medicines, chlorine tablets and ORS packets.
With river levels still being monitored, authorities have asked people living in low lying and flood prone areas to stay alert and move to safer locations if instructed.
The coming days will be crucial as officials continue to monitor the rivers and weather conditions across Uttar Pradesh.
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