Patna, July 28
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s scheduled visit to Sameli block in Katihar District was cancelled on Monday due to adverse weather conditions in Patna.
The Chief Minister was expected to unveil a statue of renowned litterateur Anuppal Mandal and address a public gathering, apart from laying the foundation stone of projects of more than Rs 500 crore, but persistent heavy rain in Patna grounded his flight.
This is the second postponement of the same programme, the first being on July 26 this year, also due to weather disruptions.
Speaking on the cancellation, Katihar District Magistrate Manesh Kumar Meena said, “Due to heavy rains in Patna and bad weather conditions, the Chief Minister’s helicopter could not take off. The event at Sameli had to be cancelled despite all arrangements being in place.â€
Barari MLA Vijay Singh echoed the disappointment due to cancellation of the chief minister's program.
“The Chief Minister was coming to unveil the statue of great litterateur Anuppal Mandal and to address the public. But once again, the weather has let us down. The ATC has not allowed his chopper to take off from Patna.â€
The district and block administration had made comprehensive preparations for the CM’s arrival, including arrangements for security, stage set-up, crowd control, and public address logistics.
Thousands of people, especially from nearby rural areas, had started gathering at the venue, only to return disappointed once the cancellation was announced.
According to administrative sources, efforts are already underway to reschedule the visit at the earliest suitable date.
The Chief Minister is keen to connect with the people of Katihar, especially to highlight development initiatives and promote education and literature in the region.
The legacy of Anuppal Mandal, whose statue was to be unveiled, holds cultural significance in the region.
Locals hope the postponed programme will be executed soon, bringing both recognition to the late litterateur and a much-anticipated public address by the Chief Minister.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Safety first! No point risking lives in bad weather. But the government should improve infrastructure so important programs aren't cancelled due to rain. Monsoon happens every year in Bihar - we need better planning. ðŸ™
Anuppal Mandal was a gem of Bihar's literary world. It's sad his statue unveiling got postponed twice. Hope the CM visits soon to honor his legacy properly. Meanwhile, the district administration should display the statue temporarily for public viewing.
As someone working in disaster management, I appreciate the caution taken. Helicopter accidents during bad weather are too common in India. The ₹500cr projects can wait a few more days - lives cannot be replaced. Good decision by ATC.
The real issue is why Bihar still depends on helicopter travel for CM's visits? Other states have better road networks. Maybe the ₹500cr should first go into improving connectivity rather than new projects. Just saying! 🤔
Respect to the thousands who gathered despite the rain! Shows how much people value development initiatives. Hope the rescheduled date is announced soon and weather gods cooperate next time. Jai Bihar!
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