The floodwaters entering Bihar from Nepal are raising concerns that go well beyond waterlogging and displacement. The safety of fish being carried into the state by the floodwaters has become a particular concern, with the Bihar government advising people not to catch, sell or consume such fish until the flood situation improves.
The warning comes after flash floods in Nepal caused water from the Trishuli River to flow into Bihar through the Gandak and Kosi rivers. Several northern districts have witnessed rising water levels, while unfamiliar fish species have reportedly been spotted in flood-affected areas. There have also been reports of people falling ill after eating some of these fish.
Officials have therefore asked residents to avoid catching, buying, selling or consuming fish taken from floodwaters as a precaution. The advisory is expected to remain in place until the affected water bodies return to normal and the flood situation stabilises.
The broader public health threat posed by floods is well established. Floods can result in loss of life and displacement while damaging homes, infrastructure and essential services. They can also increase the risk of contamination and disease outbreaks. The World Health Organization has said that more than 2 billion people were affected by floods worldwide between 1998 and 2017.
The latest concern in Bihar has emerged after unfamiliar fish were reportedly found in areas affected by water flowing in from Nepal. While officials have focused on fish safety, experts and authorities also face a wider challenge because floodwater can contain sewage, animal waste, agricultural contaminants and other pollutants.
When such contaminated water comes into contact with food, drinking-water sources or cooking areas, it can create additional health risks. For residents in flood-affected areas, avoiding potentially contaminated food and water remains an important precaution until conditions improve.
