With the death toll as a result of floods on the rise in Assam, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, it is time that the plan to interlink rivers is revived. Grim stories in the media — “Bihar toll touches 119; over 4 lakh evacuated”, August 19; “Flood situation grim in Bihar”, August 20, and “88 more die in Assam, Bihar, U.P. flood-hit areas”, August 21 — highlight the death and devastation. Some international organisations have come up with more details. There has been no move to interlink rivers which will drastically reduce the loss of precious lives, livestock and property. The needs of the affected people must be met with priority. Long-term projects must be thought of.
Manzar Imam,
Purnea, Bihar
