Heavy rainfall caused havoc in the Potka block area of the East Singhbhum district. Due to the heavy downpour, flood-like conditions arose in several villages of Potka. The water level of the Gudra River rose above the danger mark, affecting the Love Kush English School hostel in Pandarshuli village, which is located near the river. As 162 children were sleeping in the hostel at night, water started entering the building. All the children climbed onto the roof to save their lives as the water level rose rapidly and remained there in fear for five hours.
Upon receiving the information, people from Pandarshuli and neighboring villages reached the spot at night. The villagers immediately informed the administration. BDO Arun Kumar Munda, CO Nikita Bala, Kowali police station in-charge Dhananjay Paswan, and other administrative officials joined the rescue and relief operations early Sunday. With the help of villagers and the administration, all the children were safely evacuated with the help of ropes and shifted to a higher place, averting a major accident. During the night-long rescue operation, an atmosphere of fear and concern prevailed among the children’s families and villagers.
Meanwhile, the water level of the Gudra River increased significantly, and water started flowing over several important bridges, completely disrupting the movement in the area. Flood conditions also arose in Nidhidipa village due to the rain. Water entered many houses in the village, many goats were swept away, and a car was also swept away in the strong current of water. Similarly, the river water also flooded the Khadaband Primary School and entered the school premises. The villagers are frightened by this natural disaster. The administration said that the relief work is continuing and all those affected will be accommodated in safe places until the water level returns to normal.