Varanasi, August 20: The rising water level of the Ganga has put Varanasi authorities on alert, prompting District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar to review flood preparedness and relief arrangements on Thursday.
The river was flowing at around 68 metres and rising by nearly 0.5 centimetres every hour, according to officials. The warning level in Varanasi is 70.262 metres, while the danger level stands at 71.262 metres and the high-flood mark at 73.901 metres.
During a meeting with officials, the District Magistrate directed departments to identify vulnerable and flood-prone areas and complete preparations in advance. Flood posts have been asked to remain operational, while boats, rescue equipment and emergency teams are being kept ready for possible evacuations.
Authorities have also been instructed to ensure that relief camps are equipped with food, drinking water, lighting and medical facilities. Police personnel will maintain security at relief centres, while teams from the health, municipal and revenue departments will work in shifts at designated flood checkpoints.
Officials have been asked to closely monitor embankments and other vulnerable locations and immediately report any emergency to senior authorities and the control room. Rescue and relief agencies, including the NDRF and Water Police, are involved in preparedness efforts.
The administration is also making arrangements for livestock in vulnerable areas, including adequate supplies of fodder and straw. Veterinary teams have been directed to conduct vaccination drives to prevent disease outbreaks during a possible flood situation.
The rising Ganga has already affected several low-lying areas of Varanasi. Earlier this week, flood-like conditions were reported near parts of the city, with water entering homes along the Varuna River and affecting normal activity around the ghats.
Google’s Flood Hub is also forecasting a possible 15–40 cm rise in the Ganges around Varanasi by the following day, while noting that its flood estimates are approximate and should be checked against official information.
With the river continuing to rise, the district administration has stressed the need for coordination between departments and timely communication with residents. People living in low-lying and vulnerable areas are being advised to remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities.
Officials said there should be no negligence in dealing with the situation, with the focus remaining on preventing loss of life, ensuring quick evacuation if required and maintaining essential services during any flooding.
