Heavy rains have killed more than 100 people in central Uttar Pradesh and Bihar states over the past three days, Indian officials said Monday, as floodwaters submerged major cities, bringing them to a grinding halt.
Officials in Uttar Pradesh said that at least 79 people have died in the state since Friday after it witnessed a heavy spell of retreating monsoon rains, flooding many areas.
In neighboring Bihar, the death toll from the latest bout of rain mounted to 25.
India’s monsoon season, which accounts for almost 75% of the country’s annual rainfall, begins in June and starts to retreat by early September, but heavy to very heavy rainfall has continued across parts of the country this year, triggering floods in many low-lying areas.
Bihar’s capital, Patna, has been the worst-hit area, with waist-deep floodwaters across many streets. Authorities have deployed boats to rescue residents from the submerged areas.
While many have received tents from the government, others, including Ananju Devi, said they have not been given adequate aid.
“We are unable to cook any food. How can we? We are just sitting around and getting by somehow,” Devi said.
The authorities have asked schools to remain closed until Tuesday as a preventive measure.
India’s Meteorological Department said the intensity of rainfall over Bihar was very likely to abate.
