The water level of the Ganga River continues to rise in Varanasi due to ongoing monsoon rains, creating a flood-like situation across several low-lying areas, including the Namo Ghat.
Visuals from the ghat showed the river approaching danger levels, prompting heightened alert among authorities. In light of the situation, all schools in Varanasi, across all boards and up to Class 12, have been ordered shut for two days — August 5 and 6.
“In view of the rain and flood situation in Varanasi district, and following the directions of the District Magistrate, all schools from pre-primary to Class 12 across all boards will remain closed on August 5 and 6,” the District School Superintendent said in an official statement. Heads of institutions have been directed to strictly comply.
Uttar Pradesh Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna visited flood-affected areas on Monday and met with residents. He said the public expressed satisfaction with the relief efforts. “It is a natural disaster, and everyone must cooperate,” he told reporters.
Due to the rising river levels since Saturday and persistent heavy rainfall, several areas in Varanasi were inundated. Authorities have banned all boat operations on the Ganga as a precaution.
Residents were seen wading through knee-deep water, and heavy waterlogging led to traffic congestion in several parts of the city.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has deployed an 11-member ministerial team to oversee relief efforts across 12 affected districts. He has directed district-level officials — including DMs, SPs, and CMOs — to remain on the ground and ensure 24-hour monitoring.
In a government release issued on Saturday, the Chief Minister also emphasized the need for transparency and swift action and warned that negligence in relief operations would not be tolerated. He further instructed ministers to visit their assigned districts, inspect relief camps, and engage directly with affected families.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), isolated heavy rainfall is likely in Uttar Pradesh between August 3 and 6. The CM has also called for proactive measures to counter misinformation and maintain public confidence during the crisis.
-ANI