In a recent visit to flood-affected areas in Hooghly and South Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee blamed the Damodar Valley Corporation and Jharkhand for the crisis caused by excessive water releases from dams. She stated that lakhs of people are impacted, warning that more flooding could occur as water levels rise. Ten districts have been hit hard, and the Chief Minister is working on providing relief efforts, including flood shelters and supplies. Meanwhile, the opposition criticized her visit as a publicity stunt, accusing her of failing to address flood prevention in the state. The situation arose following heavy rains in the region, leading to unprecedented water discharge from the DVC.
Bengal Floods: A Man-Made Disaster, Says Mamata Banerjee
Kolkata: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is urgently visiting flood-stricken areas in Hooghly and other regions of South Bengal today. This disaster has been significantly worsened due to the release of water from dams in Jharkhand. Mamata has accused the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) of causing this crisis, stating, “The Central government’s DVC and Jharkhand’s Tenughat and Panchet have prioritized their own state by releasing water into Bengal.”
The floods are affecting lakhs of people, with the Chief Minister warning, “Look at the flow and speed of the water. Everything might go underwater soon.” Ten districts, including Howrah, Hooghly, and Midnapore, are currently seeing the impacts of this flooding.
A deep depression over Gangetic West Bengal has triggered heavy rains, leading to substantial water release from Jharkhand’s dams. The DVC released 90,000 cusecs of water on one night and 2.1 lakh cusecs the following day. Mamata has reached out to her counterpart in Jharkhand, seeking action.
District administrations in Bengal are mobilizing to prepare flood shelters with enough drinking water, medicines, and dry food. “Flood-like situations may worsen due to the heavy rains and dam releases,” stated Alapan Bandopadhyay, an advisor to the Chief Minister. Residents of low-lying areas are being advised to evacuate.
Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari criticized Mamata Banerjee’s visit, labeling it a publicity stunt. He claimed she is repeatedly passing the blame to the Central government and DVC for the floods, while neglecting her own responsibilities in preventing such disasters.
The situation remains critical as authorities strive to manage the growing crisis in Bengal.
Tags: Bengal Floods, Mamata Banerjee, Man-Made Disaster, Damodar Valley Corporation, Jharkhand, Natural Disaster, South Bengal Floods, Water Release, Emergency Response
What caused the Bengal floods?
The floods in Bengal were caused by heavy rain and poor management of water resources. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee blamed the DVC for this situation.
Who is responsible for the floods according to Mamata Banerjee?
Mamata Banerjee pointed fingers at the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC), saying their actions contributed to the flooding.
What are the effects of the floods on the people?
The floods have affected many people, damaging homes, crops, and infrastructure. Many families are displaced and in need of help.
What is the government doing about the floods?
The government is working to provide relief to those affected, including food, shelter, and medical assistance, while also investigating the flood causes.
Can something be done to prevent future floods?
Yes, better management of water resources, improved infrastructure, and regular maintenance can help prevent future floods and reduce their impact.
