Relentless Rain Raises Flood Risk in West Bengal as DVC Releases More Water

Continuous rain across Jharkhand and South Bengal has pushed up water levels in the Damodar basin, with the Damodar Valley Corporation increasing releases from the Maithon and Panchet reservoirs. The rising discharge has raised concerns about flooding in adjoining and lower Damodar areas.

According to the report, Maithon reservoir stood at about 484.25 feet and Panchet at about 414.11 feet. The two reservoirs together were releasing an average of around 50,795 cusecs, while Durgapur Barrage was releasing around 97,000 cusecs on Wednesday morning. Officials indicated that further increases in rainfall could lead to higher releases and a greater flood risk downstream.

Mining-area subsidence triggers panic

In Pandabeswar, subsidence was reported near the Haripur 7 and 9 pit areas, close to a mining residential settlement. A large depression appeared after days of rain, alarming residents who fear a bigger accident if the site is not secured and monitored quickly.

The situation comes as parts of Asansol have already faced waterlogging and traffic disruption. Local residents have also pointed to an earlier subsidence incident at the same location and called for prompt repairs and stronger monitoring.