Varanasi, July 17 – The holy city of Varanasi is battling rising waters as the Ganga River surged alarmingly this week, submerging all 84 of its iconic ghats and pushing locals and officials into high alert mode. The dramatic increase in water levels comes after relentless monsoon rains in the region, triggering both logistical disruptions and emotional concern among pilgrims and residents.
Water Levels Spike Overnight
Within just 24 hours, the Ganga rose by more than a meter, breaching key thresholds and flooding low-lying areas. Boats have been grounded, access to the riverfront blocked, and routine Aarti ceremonies shifted further inland. Several temples along the ghats are now partially underwater.
The Central Water Commission has marked the water level in Varanasi at over 69 meters, close to the danger level of 70.26 meters.
City Officials Scramble with Relief Efforts
District Magistrate S. Rajalingam toured flood-prone areas and activated emergency protocols. “NDRF and SDRF teams are on alert. Water pumps are in place. Surveillance through drones and CCTV has been increased,” he said. Relief camps and evacuation plans are being prepared as a precaution for vulnerable zones.
The administration has also advised residents to stay away from the riverbanks and announced a halt to all river-based tourism activities until further notice.
Faith Meets Floods
With the month of Sawan underway, Varanasi usually witnesses a surge in religious tourism. However, the flooding has thrown plans into disarray. On the first Monday of Sawan, thousands queued at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple but had to tread carefully through waterlogged lanes.
Pilgrims arriving from across India found the ghats inaccessible and rituals either cancelled or relocated. “It’s painful to see the Ganga like this, but nature always takes her course,” said Madhavi Jha, a devotee from Patna.
Impact Beyond Varanasi
The Ganga’s rise isn’t confined to Kashi. Water levels are spiking in Ballia, Ghazipur, Mirzapur, and Prayagraj, with several of these districts setting up flood control posts and relief shelters. In Ballia, the river has already crossed the danger level.
Experts warn that if rains continue, the situation may worsen in the coming days, affecting transport, agriculture, and local livelihoods across eastern Uttar Pradesh.
The Ganga, a lifeline and spiritual symbol for millions, is once again a reminder of nature’s power. While the authorities act swiftly, Varanasi watches anxiously—praying the river calms before the damage becomes deeper.