India is making a massive military response to the eastern state of Bihar to help with flood relief and rescue operations.
The government announced on Wednesday that it has sent 37 army columns, 11 helicopters, and hundreds of boats to the region. It says the helicopters will drop food and provide logistical support for rescues and evacuations. Relief organizations say millions of people in India have been displaced by massive flooding that began two weeks ago. The Kosi River burst its banks in neighboring Nepal, causing river water to spill into India.
Aid officials warn that flood victims, crowded into relief camps, are facing an increasing risk of disease, such as cholera and diarrhea. Along with the threat of disease, authorities say riots carried out by hungry, villagers have broken out in many areas.
Paramashish Ghosh Roy has the details about flood situation in West Bengal.
