Patna: Stranded people left with no option except being house arrest

Heavy rains in Bihar continued for the third consecutive day on Sunday, throwing normal life out of gear. The unexpected 'heavy to extremely heavy rain' has so far claimed the lives of over 17 people - mostly drowned, across the state, officials of disaster management department said here. The Met Office has predicted more rain in the next 24 hours and the state government has issued a 'red alert'.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, emerging from a video conference with district magistrates, told reporters, "We are making all possible efforts. I would appeal to the people of the state to have patience and courage. Torrential rain have followed a prolonged dry spell which vindicates our governments resolve to combat climate change through environmental preservation."