KOSHI: In the face of relentless rainfall leading to a rapid surge in water levels, the Saptakoshi barrage has taken the precautionary measure of opening all 56 sluices to avert potential disaster.

The swift rise in the river’s water level has triggered concerns among residents residing in Udayapur, Saptari, and Sunsari districts.

The decision to activate the sluices was prompted by a recorded water flow of 462,000 cusecs.

According to DSP Rajkumar Rai, the spokesperson for the District Police Office Sunsari, the decision to open all 56 barrage gates was taken in response to the elevated water flow, marked by the activation of red warning lights indicating imminent danger.

Humkala Pandey, the Chief District Officer, highlighted that the current flood in the Saptakoshi marks the most severe since 1989 when a water flow of 472 thousand cusecs was recorded.

Local authorities have strongly advised residents of adjacent settlements to exercise caution in light of the situation.