Varanasi, August 3 (H.S.): The water level of the Ganga River in Varanasi has surged dangerously, crossing the danger mark of 71.262 metres on Saturday evening. By 8 AM on Sunday, the river had reached 71.56 metres, significantly above the red line. According to the Central Water Commission, the water level is rising at an average rate of 3 centimetres per hour. Over the past 24 hours, the river has risen by 69 centimetres.
With the Ganga in spate, its tributary Varuna has also taken a furious form, resulting in severe waterlogging across low-lying areas of Varanasi. Several neighbourhoods and villages are submerged waist-deep, forcing residents to evacuate and migrate to safer locations.
Cremations Affected at Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats
Floodwater has entered the lanes of the sacred Manikarnika Ghat, reaching the gate of the Satuwa Baba Ashram. Boats are now being used to transport bodies for cremation, and delays of 4 to 5 hours are being reported. At Harishchandra Ghat, cremations are now taking place in the surrounding lanes due to lack of space. Many temples near the ghats are fully submerged.
Ganga Reaches Kashi Vishwanath Dham Gate
Floodwaters have climbed the steps of the Ganga Dwar at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham, prompting deployment of additional security forces. The water police station at Dashashwamedh Ghat is completely submerged. At Assi Ghat, the water has crossed the steps and entered nearby lanes. The regular evening Ganga Aarti is now being conducted in the streets instead of on the ghats.
Floodwaters Enter 26 Villages and 21 Urban Wards
The flood has severely affected 26 villages and 21 urban areas across Varanasi. Notable affected localities include Salarpur, Saraiya, Nakkhi Ghat, Daniyalpur, Koniya, Dhelwaria, Nagwa, Sikaroul, Tapovan, and Domari. In rural areas, farming and daily life have been completely disrupted.
As per government directives, the Varanasi district administration, NDRF, water police, municipal corporation, and health department are all engaged in rescue and relief operations. All departments have been placed on high alert. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are closely monitoring the situation.
The Central Water Commission has expressed concern that this year’s flood may surpass the devastating flood of 1978. Ongoing heavy rainfall in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand, along with the release of water from dams on the Chambal, Betwa, and Ken rivers, has further worsened the situation.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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