Beneath the Surface: Flooding in Bihar, India

In Bihar, India, where a massive relief effort is taking place in villages forced afloat by August's monsoon floods, CRS aid workers are responding to the crisis beneath the surface. While the headlines fade, the disastrous reality remains untold: Bihar is home to millions of the poorest people on earth. More than half of the children here are malnourished. And for many people, an average workday consists of backbreaking labor on land they don't own for less than 2 dollars in pay.

Through these photos, we hope to share the story of Bihar's people as they confront a crisis that could affect the next generation. As flooding leads to lost harvests and assets, many have already lost their livelihoods and savings. These losses could ultimately lead to migration, exploitation, lack of money for health care, and fewer educational opportunities as children stay home to help their families.

CRS has been supporting programs in Bihar since the early 1970s, and officially opened an office in Bihar's capital of Patna in 2004. We remain committed to assisting the people of Bihar in the immediate aftermath of the floods and on their road to recovery long after the waters recede.