Harnaut, Nalanda: The Sabnahua River, which had been dry for over a decade in Harnaut block of Nalanda district, has finally received water from the Dhoba River this year. The water flow, originating from the north-east instead of the usual south, is attributed to the increasing water levels of the Ganga River exerting pressure on the Dhoba River. This development brings significant relief to farmers, as the historical and economic importance of the Sabnahua River had been steadily declining due to the lack of water.

Historically, the riverbanks between Nimkol and Sabnahua were a major hub for social, religious, and economic activities. Local legends suggest that ancient sages (Saptarishi) once visited and bathed in the river, leading to the area being named 'Sapt Snan,' which eventually evolved into 'Sabnahua.'

Bindeshwar Das, a resident of Porai, recalls that in the 1970s and 80s, the river was economically and socially prosperous. Algae from the river was transported to sugar mills in Warisaliganj, Nawada, where it was used to purify sugar. The river supported extensive fish production and provided year-round water to thousands of acres of farmland in the vicinity.

Even today, during Chaiti and Kartik Chhath festivals, a large number of devotees gather at the river ghats. Thousands of Chhath devotees bathe in the river and offer prayers to the setting and rising sun. Kaushalya Devi, a 90-year-old resident of Harnaut Bazar, shared that she began observing Chhath at this river to pray for a daughter, and her wish was granted. However, over time, the river's ancient significance has waned, and for about a decade, it has not had a regular water supply. During festivals, temporary dams are built, and water is pumped in to prepare the ghats.

Rasbihari Pandey, a Sabnahua resident, stated that the absence of river water has caused groundwater levels in open borewells to drop continuously for several years, diminishing the river's relevance. Despite its direct connectivity to four-lane roads, NH, and SH, its commercial value is decreasing due to water scarcity. Farmer Gautam Kumar noted that the lack of water in the Muhane River is impacting the groundwater levels of 18 panchayats in Harnaut and Chandi blocks. Social worker Chandra Uday Kumar explained that the Muhane River is a lifeline for Nalanda, receiving water from the Udera Sthan Barrage in Gaya. However, the river's inlet at the barrage has been closed for years, preventing adequate water flow. Several organizations and social workers are actively working to restore water to the river, and letters have been sent to former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and current Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary regarding this issue.