VARANASI: The rising waters of the Ganga have crossed the warning level in Varanasi, prompting the district administration to suspend boat services and intensify surveillance in flood-affected areas, officials said on Wednesday.
According to the Central Water Commission, the Ganga was flowing at 70.29 metres in the district, slightly above the warning mark of 70.26 metres. The danger level has been set at 71.26 metres, while the highest flood level is 73.90 metres.
With the river continuing to rise, authorities have prohibited all boat operations and appealed to residents and devotees to avoid going towards the ghats or entering areas where strong currents could pose a risk.
The administration is keeping a close watch on the situation amid rising water levels in both the Ganga and Varuna rivers. Officials are also monitoring waterlogged and flood-prone areas along the Varuna.
Flooding has partially affected around 11 localities and wards in the district. Officials said 328 families, comprising 1,388 people, have so far been affected by the overflowing Varuna river.
Authorities have begun preparations to move vulnerable families to safer locations if the situation worsens and have put relief and rescue arrangements in place.
Thirteen relief camps have been established across the district, with 935 people belonging to 219 affected families currently taking shelter there, officials said.
District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar directed officials to maintain round-the-clock alertness and closely monitor vulnerable areas. He also instructed them to ensure the immediate evacuation of residents whenever necessary.
Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal asked police personnel and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to maintain continuous vigil in flood-hit areas and respond swiftly to any emergency, officials said.