Varanasi, Aug 24: The Ganga water level in Varanasi has started receding at a rate of around 2 cm per hour, bringing relief to residents and the administration, though floodwaters continue to remain stagnant in several low-lying areas and more than 140 people have been displaced.
The river level, which had touched 69.20 metres after rising continuously for nearly 10 days, fell to 68.62 metres on Monday. The Ganga had begun rising on August 14, when the water level was recorded at 63.59 metres.
The steady decline has brought some respite to people living along the riverbanks, but the flood situation remains a concern in several areas.
More than 140 people living along the banks of the Varuna River have been displaced, with over 80 taking shelter in flood relief camps. Others have moved into relatives’ homes or rented accommodation.
Several flood-affected families are still staying on rooftops, facing difficulties in arranging food, drinking water and other essential supplies. Sunday evening’s rain further compounded their problems, leaving many families drenched.
Flooding has also affected rural areas, with water reaching the fields of four villages. Villagers remain worried about damage to crops and difficulties in transportation.
Water levels are also falling in Prayagraj and Mirzapur, raising hopes that the flood pressure in Varanasi will ease gradually if the Ganga continues to recede.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation has intensified sanitation measures in flood-affected areas to prevent health and hygiene problems as the water recedes.
Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal inspected affected areas and directed officials to undertake cleaning, lime spraying, fogging and ensure proper drainage.
He also ordered priority cleaning of the Vaitarni Kund and Dhobi Ghat complex in Konia Ward and directed officials to resolve sanitation and waterlogging-related issues on priority.
The administration has maintained that continued decline in the Ganga’s water level would gradually ease flood pressure in the riverside areas. However, officials remain focused on preventing additional problems caused by stagnant water, dirt and poor sanitation after the floodwaters recede.
