Economic Survey 2025-26 | 2,547 people died in disasters in Bihar in 2024-25, most due to drowning

Patna: A total of 2,547 people lost their lives in various disasters in Bihar in 2024-25, according to the state Economic Survey tabled in the state assembly recently.

The figure stood at 2,140 in 2023-24, said the survey.

Drowning accounted for the highest number of fatalities at 2,039, it said.

Lightning strikes claimed 305 lives in 2024-25, compared to 242 deaths in the previous year. While 29 people were injured due to lightning during the period, the number of injuries stood at 35 in 2023–24, it added.

Fire-related incidents caused 143 deaths in 2024-25, 25 more than the previous year. Heatwave conditions also took a heavier toll, claiming 34 lives during the year, compared to 12 deaths in 2023-24.

The survey said the state's physiographic characteristics, shaped by its location, river systems, terrain and climatic conditions, make it highly susceptible to a wide range of hazards.

"Nearly all districts face risks from major disasters such as floods, earthquakes, cyclones, droughts and fires, with some regions experiencing multiple hazards simultaneously, reflecting the state's true multi-hazard profile," the survey noted.

The extent of disaster-related losses depends on the type and magnitude of events as well as the vulnerability of the population, it said, adding that flooding and thunderstorms frequently affect the south-central and south-eastern parts of the state.

More than 90 people were killed in lightning strikes and thunderstorms in April last year, causing extensive damage to crops and houses. Nalanda district recorded the highest number of fatalities at 23 during that month.

Disaster Management Department Secretary Chandrashekhar Singh told PTI that prevention, mitigation, preparedness and response were crucial for an effective disaster management framework.

"Given Bihar's exposure to floods, droughts, thunderstorms, lightning and cyclones, the state government remains committed to disaster management and providing relief to affected families," he said.

The Bihar State Disaster Management Authority (BSDMA) is preparing to launch a statewide awareness campaign to educate people about potential risks such as floods, earthquakes and cyclones, he said.

"We will also roll out this campaign in schools so that students can learn about preparedness and how to deal with such situations," he added.