Kathmandu— The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has issued a weather alert for heavy rainfall in Kanchanpur, specifically in Dodhara Chandani, Bhimdutta, and Bedkot municipalities. The alert comes after continuous rainfall and a rise in the Mahakali River's water level, prompting local authorities to prepare for potential flooding and increased river flow.

Preparedness Measures

Local disaster focal persons have confirmed their preparedness. Sunil Chand, the disaster focal person at Bedkot Municipality, stated, 'We have advised the municipal police and ward chairs to stay alert,' and added, 'We have kept the necessary materials ready.' Amrit Bk, the disaster focal person at Dodhara Chandani Municipality, also confirmed their readiness. The Weather Forecasting Division has issued a notice to concerned authorities to increase river monitoring, inform local governments and communities, and start necessary preparations.

Impact on Cross-Border Movement

The continuous rainfall has led to a significant rise in the Mahakali River's water level, causing the Indian side to stop movement at the Sharada Barrage in Banbas, which connects Nepal and India. According to Jeevan Gurung, the In-charge of the Darchauki Area Police Office, the water flow reached 133,888 cubic meters per second in the Mahakali River as measured at 5:00 pm today. Once the water flow exceeds 100,000 cubic meters per second, the movement of four-wheeler vehicles has been restricted at the Sharada Barrage citing security reasons.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.