Ganga River Swells in Varanasi: Over 40 Ghats Submerged, Boat Operations Halted

Rising Ganga Threatens Varanasi, Over 40 Ghats Submerged

Varanasi | August 17, 2026: The water level of the Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi has risen sharply, submerging more than 40 ghats in the city. Consequently, the local administration has imposed an immediate ban on all types of boat operations in the river.

The surging Ganga has completely inundated the steps of several major ghats, including the famed Manikarnika Ghat, significantly impacting daily life and religious activities. The river's water level is reportedly rising at a rate of approximately 6 centimeters per hour. This rapid increase in water levels over the past 24 hours has become a cause for concern.

Impact on Religious and Daily Life

The rising waters of the Ganga are having a direct effect on the city's prominent religious sites. At Manikarnika Ghat, the site for cremation rituals, the submerged steps have increased the pressure on arrangements. Should the water level rise further, the administration may need to focus on emergency preparations.

The renowned Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a significant part of Varanasi's cultural identity, has also been affected. With the Ganga waters reaching the lower steps of the Aarti venue, the ceremony is being conducted on safer upper steps or another designated secure location to ensure the safety of devotees while continuing the religious tradition.

Managing crowds of devotees and tourists, who gather in large numbers daily to witness the Ganga Aarti, remains a major challenge. The administration has made special arrangements to prevent people from going too close to the river. Additionally, the access route to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple's Ganga gate has been affected by the rising water levels.

Boat Operations Suspended for Safety

In view of the rising water levels and strong currents, the administration has implemented a complete ban on the operation of all boats, large and small, to prevent any potential accidents. This decision prioritizes the safety of tourists and local residents.

Boat journeys on the Ganga are a major tourist attraction in Varanasi, and this ban will directly affect the tourist experience as well as the livelihoods of local boatmen. The administration has issued clear directives for strict adherence to this prohibition.

Disaster Management Preparedness

Given the gravity of the situation, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Water Police have been placed on high alert. Relief and rescue teams have been instructed to remain ready to handle potential emergencies.

Administration teams are continuously patrolling the ghats and sensitive areas around the river, closely monitoring any changes in the water level. This rise in water is also a cause for concern for residents living near the ghats. If the water level continues to rise at this pace, there is a risk of flooding in low-lying areas.

The administration is increasing surveillance in sensitive areas and making preliminary arrangements for the evacuation of people to safer locations if needed. Factors such as heavy rainfall in upstream areas and increased river flow may be significant reasons behind the rising Ganga water levels. The rate of increase in the water level over the coming hours will determine the future course of the situation.

The administration is appealing to citizens to follow all safety instructions and maintain a safe distance from the river banks and submerged areas.