Rising Ganga Water Level Disrupts Varanasi Ghats, Small Boats Banned

The water level of the Ganga River in Varanasi is rapidly rising, disconnecting ghats and prompting a ban on small boats. The increase in water level is attribute to continuous water release from Kanpur Barrage in Uttar Pradesh.

Also Read: We Are Responsible For Safety And Satisfaction Of All Residents: UP CM

In the last 24 hours, the water level has risen by 65 centimeters, with a current rate of increase of two centimeters per hour. The Central Water Commission records show the water level at 62.42 meters as of Tuesday noon.

As a precautionary measure, the water police have banned small boats and restricted big boats to half capacity. Boatmen have instruction to follow safety guidelines, and negligence will met with strict action. Bathing, horse riding, and camel riding along the Ganga are not allow now.

The rising water level has submerged stairs at several ghats, causing concern among residents and pandits who perform puja on the ghat steps. While officials say a flood-like situation has not arisen, they predict the water level will continue to rise.