President condoles loss of lives due to floods in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh

President Pranab Mukherjee today expressed his condolences for the loss of lives due to the floods in certain areas of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

In individual messages sent to Shri D.Y. Patil, Governor of Bihar and Shri Ram Naik, Governor of Uttar Pradesh, the President said, "I am saddened to know about the unprecedented floods in certain areas of the State, which have caused loss of lives, injuries and damage to property. I understand rescue and relief operations are currently underway."

"I am sure the state government and other authorities are making all efforts to bring relief to those affected and also providing assistance to the people who have incurred losses," he added.

"Please convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. I pray to the Almighty to give the families who have lost their dear ones, the strength and courage to bear the irreparable loss," he further added.

Over 1500 villages in nine districts of Uttar Pradesh have been severely affected by floods.

So far, the death toll has reportedly reached above 45 and thousands have been rendered homeless.

The water level in the River Rapti has touched 105.47 meters, which is 0.85 meters above the danger mark.

The worst affected district is Bahraich near the Indo-Nepal border. Army helicopters were also dropping off food packets in affected villages.