Varanasi, August 8: The rising water level of the Ganges has caused significant disruptions in Varanasi, affecting the movement of pilgrims and tourists across various ghats. In response to the situation, security measures have been heightened.
Pandit Vivekanand Pandey shared, “The increasing water level of the Ganges is creating numerous challenges for us. Previously, when the water level was lower, we could perform Rudrabhishek and other rituals in the temples. Now, due to the rising water, conducting Rudrabhishek has become difficult. As it is the month of Sawan, devotees are facing issues as access between the ghats is hindered, and we might have to perform rituals on smaller Shiva lingams along the way.”
He noted that the water level is rising so rapidly that we have to move our checkpoints higher every hour. In just one day, the water has risen by 20-25 feet. Boat operators are also facing difficulties, with operations gradually coming to a halt. Meanwhile, services on the opposite bank have completely ceased.
Currently, the Ganges is in full flood. In Farrukhabad, flooding has created crises in several villages. The government is distributing relief materials to affected individuals. One resident, Tausif, mentioned that roads have also submerged. Another person stated that entire villages are underwater, and it remains uncertain how much more the water will rise. There is significant erosion occurring in nearby areas, and it takes about five kilometers of walking to reach any vehicles.
District Magistrate Ankur Lathar reported that the Ganges water level is above the warning point, increasing the flood risk for 33 villages. In one village, water has already entered, and 300 residents have been relocated to a refugee camp, which has also made provisions for animals.
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