Case of the disappearing water bodies: Survey reveals 8,940 missing in Bihar

What Happened

Bihar's Second Census of Water Bodies shows 8,940 water bodies disappeared since 2018-19. Of 45,793 recorded water bodies then, only 36,856 remain. Ponds decreased from 35,027 to 33,618. Tanks fell from 4,221 to 859. Lakes dropped from 2,693 to 258. Reservoirs reduced from 2,156 to 315. Encroachment by land mafia is a major concern. A 2023 Patna High Court order noted 1,045 pond encroachments. Government officials acknowledge the census findings and promise updated encroachment reports.

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