Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Fresh breaches in embankments and dams along the Gandak River in Saran, Gopalganj, and Muzaffarpur districts of Bihar have caused widespread flooding in several villages.
Key points
- Breaches occurred in embankments and dams in Saran, Gopalganj, and Muzaffarpur districts.
- The Gandak River is in spate due to heavy rainfall in Nepal and Uttar Pradesh.
- Water levels at Dumaria Ghat, Rewaghat, and Lalganj have remained significantly above the Highest Flood Level (HFL).
- Elevated water level of the Ganga River is exacerbating the situation, creating backflow pressure in the Gandak.
- Critical seepage and piping conditions observed along the Saran embankment require vigilance.
Background & context
Bihar is prone to floods, particularly during the monsoon season, due to its geographical location and the numerous rivers flowing through it, many originating from the Himalayas.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Gandak River is a trans-boundary river flowing through Nepal and India.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Geography (Floods, Natural Disasters), GS Paper 3: Disaster Management
Why in news?
Odisha and Chhattisgarh are reportedly moving closer to a solution for the Mahanadi water distribution issue, with positive discussions held under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil.
Key points
- The resolution process has accelerated following the formation of the BJP government in both Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
- Discussions have involved political leadership, Chief Secretaries, Water Resources Secretaries, and engineers from both states.
- The target is to resolve the issue within three months, with two months already passed since a meeting on July 30, 2026.
- Both state governments have submitted proposals and necessary documents.
- The Central Water Commission is providing technical support.
Background & context
The Mahanadi River is a major river in India, flowing through Chhattisgarh and Odisha. Disputes over water sharing, particularly concerning upstream projects in Chhattisgarh affecting downstream flows in Odisha, have been ongoing.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Mahanadi River originates in the state of Chhattisgarh.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Federalism, Inter-State Relations, GS Paper 3: Water Resources, Disaster Management
Why in news?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has revised guidelines for exempted FASTags for vehicles registered under the Divyangjan category to simplify toll procedures and promote ease of living.
Key points
- FASTags will be issued based on the disability percentage shown on certificates.
- FASTags for 70% to 100% disability will be valid for five years.
- FASTags for 40% to less than 70% disability will be valid for three years.
- Renewal is subject to continued eligibility and compliance with National Highways Fee Rules, 2008.
- The revision aims to make the tolling ecosystem more accessible and user-friendly.
Background & context
FASTag is a RFID tag used for toll collection on national highways in India, enabling automatic deduction of toll charges.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The revision exempts FASTags for eligible beneficiaries based on their disability percentage.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Governance, Social Justice, GS Paper 3: Infrastructure