Businesses on JP Ganga Path still grapple with lingering floodwater

Even as the Ganga’s flow eases, the commercial stretch known as JP Ganga Path (Marine Drive) in Patna remains a waterlogged battlefield for shop owners. The river’s stage dropped to 52.12 meters at the Maner gauge, but the level is still 12 cm above the 52‑meter danger mark, keeping floodwaters trapped along the boulevard.

Hundreds of stalls and small businesses along the road report that water has seeped up to 500 metres inland, leaving more than five hundred shops drenched. Traders describe the arduous process of moving stock, furniture, and even vehicles to higher ground to avoid further loss.

Officials from the flood control department note a 16 cm reduction in the river’s height over the last 24 hours, yet the proximity to the danger line means that any sudden rise could quickly reverse the modest gains.

Nearby ghats—Digha and Gandhi—record similar levels, with Digha Ghat matching the 52.12‑meter reading and Gandhi Ghat staying at 49.28 meters, still above its safety benchmark.

The Patna Municipal Corporation has not published detailed relief measures for the affected merchants, leaving many to fend for themselves. Outside the immediate flood zone, areas like Danapur still hold water, but the overall downward trend in the Ganga is aiding the clearing process.

In surrounding localities, Bakhteyarpur reports normalcy, while Mokama saw a slight increase in water levels that authorities claim is under control. Continuous monitoring of the Son and Punpun rivers shows Son at 52.80 meters—well under its 55.52‑meter danger level—and Punpun at 49.10 meters, safely below its 50.60‑meter threshold.