Heavy rain in the last few days, after a prolonged drought, has made the situation worse.

'For carrying out rescue operations in the district and its adjoining areas, we have pressed into service a company of PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary) and nearly 80 boats and motorboats,' added Sharma.

The rivers in the affected districts have either crossed the danger mark or are flowing near it.

According to officials, in Shrawasti district, Rapti and Saryu rivers were flowing above the danger mark. The situation was more of less similar for Ghagra river in Sitapur district, Rapti in Sant Kabir Nagar, Gandak in Kushinagar and Rohni in Maharajganj.

With the erratic monsoon, the state is also facing drought in 58 out of its 71 districts.