Varanasi Floods: Manikarnika Ghat Closed Amid Rising Water

Varanasi, a city in eastern Uttar Pradesh, is experiencing severe flooding due to rising water levels in the Ganga River. The Manikarnika Ghat, a prominent cremation ground, has been closed as the flood situation worsens. Families are being forced to perform last rites on the rooftops of houses as the traditional cremation ghats are inaccessible.

The floodwaters have submerged the cremation area at Manikarnika Ghat, and parts of Harishchandra Ghat have also been affected. The closure of Manikarnika Ghat has added to the distress of families already struggling to move through the flooded areas. The continuing rains have pushed the Ganga and other rivers in eastern Uttar Pradesh towards dangerous levels.

In Varanasi, the rising river has flooded low-lying settlements and narrow lanes along the ghats. The situation is particularly difficult in the vicinity of the ghats, where water has entered lanes and reached residential areas. At several places, people are being forced to wade through water to reach their homes.

The flood situation has also affected neighbouring districts, with 13 districts facing flood-like conditions and more than 84,000 people affected. In Prayagraj, intermittent rain over the past four days has worsened the situation in several localities. Water has entered homes in Daraganj, Kareli, and Salori, with reports of water reaching around three feet in some houses.

More than 2,000 students have reportedly left hostels because of the waterlogging, while over 7,000 families are staying with relatives. The Allahabad High Court has directed Prayagraj District Magistrate Manish Verma to ensure that water is drained from urban areas within 24 to 48 hours.

The flood threat has also spread to other religious towns, including Chitrakoot, Ayodhya, and Gonda. With more rain forecast, authorities are keeping a close watch on the rivers and low-lying areas. The situation in Varanasi and surrounding areas is being closely monitored, and efforts are being made to provide relief to those affected.

The floods in Varanasi have highlighted the need for effective flood management and mitigation measures in the city. The closure of Manikarnika Ghat and the displacement of families have caused significant distress, and it is essential that the authorities take prompt action to address the situation.

In conclusion, the floods in Varanasi have caused widespread disruption and distress, and it is crucial that the authorities take immediate action to provide relief to those affected. The situation is being closely monitored, and efforts are being made to mitigate the effects of the floods.

The impact of the floods on the people of Varanasi and surrounding areas will be significant, and it is essential that the authorities provide adequate support and relief to those affected. The situation is a reminder of the importance of effective flood management and mitigation measures in the city.