3 rivers swell in Bageshwar after heavy rain, bridge damaged

Bageshwar: Uninterrupted rainfall since Sunday night has caused Saryu, Gomti, and Ramganga rivers to overflow in Bageshwar, significantly damaging infrastructure. The Kapkot area has been particularly affected, and a vital suspension bridge over Ramganga got severely damaged and is tilting precariously.Kunjal Koranga, a block development council member in Lathi, said Ramganga was flowing at full force and added, "The bridge is now hanging to one side, and if the rain continues, it may be completely washed away." This damage has forced authorities to halt all movement across the bridge, cutting off access to schools, colleges, hospitals, and markets. The Public Works Department has been instructed to assess and address the situation promptly.The Saryu and Gomti rivers are also at dangerous levels, with Saryu Ghat completely submerged. Babita Rastogi, who lives near the ghat, said this is the first time this season the river has risen so high. "Thankfully, water hasn't entered our homes," she added. Jal police have been deployed to warn residents and keep them away from riverbanks.Following the downpour, 16 roads in Bageshwar were blocked by debris on Monday, with efforts under way to clear them. District disaster management officer, Shikha Suyal, said the crisis has caused damages exceeding Rs 65 crore in the district.