Varanasi. The continuous rise in the water level of river Ganga in Kashi has created flood situation in the coastal areas. According to the information received from the Central Water Commission, due to continuous rains in the hilly and plain areas, the water level of the river is increasing rapidly. Due to this surge, the temple of Maa Shitala located at the famous Shitala Ghat has been completely submerged. Due to several feet of water logging in the temple premises and the sanctum sanctorum, regular darshan, worship and religious activities have come to a complete standstill. Seeing the seriousness of this submerged situation, Varanasi district administration has come on high alert mode. Besides, relief and rescue operations have been intensified in flood affected areas.
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Ghats lost connection, aarti and cremation taking place on rooftops
Let us tell you that this surge in Ganga has badly affected the traditional life and religious rituals of Kashi. Due to rising water level, land connectivity of all the historical 84 ghats of Varanasi has been completely broken. The world famous daily Ganga Aarti held at the Dashashwamedh Ghat here has been shifted to the rooftop instead of the stairs of the ghat for safety reasons. Also, the main platforms of 'Manikarnika' and 'Harishchandra Ghat' here have been submerged in water. Due to this, now the last rites are being performed on the rooftops built above the ghats and in the nearby high streets. Keeping security in mind, 'Ganga Dwar' of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has been temporarily closed for general devotees and tourists.
Complete ban on boat operation, NDRF ready
As a precaution, the district administration and water police have banned the operation of all types of small and big boats, steamers and cruises in the river Ganga with immediate effect. Besides, teams of NDRF, PAC and local police are continuously patrolling the ghats 24 hours a day. Apart from this, through loudspeakers, local citizens and tourists are being given strict instructions to stay away from deep water and not to go towards the ghats.
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River Varuna reverses flow, water enters colonies
Due to the high water level of Ganga here, reverse flow has started in the tributary Varuna river. Due to this, flood water has entered the residential colonies of low lying areas of Shailputri, Koniya, Saraiya, Nagwa and Assi. On the instructions of the local District Magistrate, flood relief camps have been set up to take the affected families to safe places. In these camps, the victims are being provided medical treatment, pure drinking water and food. Also, the administration has given strict orders to all the concerned officers not to leave the headquarters and to keep an eye on the water level every moment.