Fury-filled Ganges River overflows Varanasi Waterfronts, prompting alerts throughout Uttar Pradesh
In several districts of Uttar Pradesh, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Sambhal, a flood crisis is unfolding as the Ganga River surges to alarming levels due to monsoon rains in northern India.
The Central Water Commission's Middle Ganga Division has reported these developments, with the river level in Varanasi now above the danger mark. In just 24 hours, the water level in Varanasi rose by 0.7 meters.
The situation in Varanasi is particularly dire, with all 84 ghats completely submerged. The sacred Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most significant cremation sites in Hinduism, is entirely under water. Earlier this month, flooding at the ghats and water entering temple premises occurred due to continuous heavy downpours.
Prayagraj is also experiencing flooding, with water entering the Bade Hanuman Mandir. Several houses in the city's lower regions have also been inundated.
The situation in Sambhal is critical, with the Ganga River at a level of 177.60 meters, impacting 36 villages potentially at risk of flooding. In response, the district administration has set up 16 flood control posts and identified 13 shelter homes for flood-affected areas. The tender process for flood relief kits has been completed, and the administration remains on high alert.
Across Uttar Pradesh, there is a heightened state of alertness due to the rising water levels. Authorities are taking measures to manage the flood situation, including establishing control posts and providing shelter to affected residents. To manage the rising waters, authorities have opened 18 gates of the Matatila Dam in Lalitpur.
Indian news agencies are reporting on the situation, highlighting the disruption to daily religious rituals and riverside activities in Varanasi. The flood alerts have been issued in these districts, urging residents to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities.
As the floodwaters continue to rise, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents and managing the impact on infrastructure and religious sites. The situation is being closely monitored, and preparations are in place to mitigate the impact of the rising water levels.
Scientists are closely monitoring the environmental-science aspects of the flooding in Uttar Pradesh, particularly the impact on the Ganga River and its surrounding ecosystem. Weather patterns and monsoon rains are key factors being analyzed as part of this study.
In light of the flood crisis, there is a growing need for environmental-science research to understand the long-term effects of such phenomena on the region's biodiversity and water resources.
