Flood alert in Varanasi as Ganga overflows;ghats submerged

The Ganga river in Varanasi has overflowed significantly following incessant rainfall over the past few days, prompting the district administration to issue a flood alert. All the iconic ghats of the holy city are submerged, and riverside temples are waterlogged as water levels continue to rise, according to officials.Boating activities have been suspended as a precautionary measure. Authorities have advised residents and tourists to stay away from the ghats amid the worsening situation.

VIDEO | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Ganga River is in full spate submerging all the ghats. Boating has been suspended, and the administration has asked locals and tourists to stay away from the ghats amid rising water level.#VaranasiNews #GangaRiver

(Full video available on PTI… pic.twitter.com/rnl9aQ1oOQ

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 17, 2025

The famous Namo Ghat has almost submerged  in Varanasi 

#WATCH | Varanasi, UP: Namo Ghat is seen flooded as the water level of the Ganga River rises, following continuous rainfall in the region. pic.twitter.com/TDAfL6nigX

— ANI (@ANI) July 17, 2025

The impact of the rising Ganga is being felt beyond Varanasi. In Prayagraj also, heavy rains has affected daily life, but during the holy month of Sawan, people enjoyed the weather at the river ghats In Sambhal district, the river is currently flowing at 177.60 metres, creating flood-like conditions in low-lying areas and nearby villages. Speaking on preparedness, Sambhal District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya said the administration has set up 16 flood control posts and identified 13 shelter homes for affected residents.In Prayagraj, the Ganga’s surging waters have entered the premises of the Bade Hanuman Mandir, while several houses in low-lying areas have also been inundated.
Earlier this month, heavy rainfall had triggered similar conditions in Varanasi, submerging ghats such as Manikarnika and inundating nearby temples. Ram Ghat in Prayagraj was also reported to be under water during that period.With rainfall continuing across parts of Uttar Pradesh, officials are closely monitoring the situation and have urged people to remain vigilant.