Several ghats in Varanasi are submerged as the water level of the Ganga continues to rise due to heavy rainfall in the region.

According to the Central Water Commission, the Ganga’s water level is increasing at a rate of four centimeters per hour and is expected to continue rising in the coming days. The release of water from upstream dams has contributed to the swelling of the river.

The rising waters have severed connectivity between the ghats along the Ganga, and temples situated on the riverbanks have been inundated. The iconic Ganga Aarti has been shifted to rooftops.

Local transportation, particularly the operation of small boats, has been suspended due to strong currents, affecting both tourism and daily commutes. Members of the Majhi community, who traditionally live along the riverbanks, have been evacuated to safer locations as a precautionary measure.

In Prayagraj, the situation is equally concerning, with surrounding ghats submerged due to rising water levels in both the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.

“The water level started rising rapidly around 5:30-6:00 AM… This whole area is submerged, including the Ganga Aarti area,” said Swapnil Nishad, a local resident.

(With ANI input)