1m people affected as floods hit new areas

Patna: Floodwaters continued to create havoc in Bihar as they entered new areas on Friday and the situation remained grim affecting about one million people, officials said.

"Floodwaters have entered the districts of Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, Araria, Saran and Bhagalpur. Government agencies are engaged in relief and rescue operations," an official said. About 1 million people in the state have been affected by the floods, which have claimed over 30 lives so far.

The officials said the flood situation was grim in over 900 villages in 12 districts. Major rivers, including the ganges, Punpun, Ghaghra, Burhigandak, Bagmati, Kosi and Mahananda, were flowing above the danger mark at several places.

People took shelter on embankments and roads and protested against inadequate relief materials and government help.

However, state government officials said relief and rescue operations had been going on in full speed for last three days in flood hit districts and hundreds were evacuated to safe places. "The National Disaster Management Force along with army personnel and air force helicopters are already engaged in providing relief," the official said.