Alerted Bihar government about rain: Met scientist; toll at 73

Patna: The government of Bihar had been alerted about heavy rainfall in advance, said on Thursday Anand Shankar, a scientist at the Meteorological Department in Patna.

"The first indication of heavy rainfall was received on September 19. We properly informed the state government and other stakeholders in this regard," Anand told ANI.

"From September 26 onwards, we started sending press releases to the state government and informed all government offices. We were in constant touch with the officials so that they are alert," he added.

"The districts of North Bihar are continuing to receive heavy rainfall and mainly the districts near the Ganga river may receive rainfall because the moisture supply in these areas is more," said Shankar.

The death toll soared to 73 on Thursday.