Varanasi, Sep 3: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reviewed the worsening flood situation in Varanasi and asked the local administration to ensure that relief and rescue efforts reach affected people quickly as the Ganga continues to rise.
PM Modi spoke with Varanasi Mayor Ashok Tiwari and District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar to understand the situation on the ground and take an update on the steps being taken by the administration.
Officials briefed the Prime Minister on the areas affected by rising water levels, ongoing rescue operations and arrangements being made for people who may need to move to safer locations. He stressed the need for prompt action and directed officials to ensure that residents face minimum inconvenience during the situation.
The Prime Minister also reviewed arrangements at relief camps and asked the administration to ensure that people staying there receive essential facilities without delay. Officials have also been instructed to remain prepared to arrange additional food, medicines and other relief material if required.
The administration has been asked to keep a close watch on the river and respond immediately to any further rise in the water level. The emphasis is on ensuring public safety while maintaining uninterrupted relief operations.
The Ganga crossed its warning level in Varanasi on Wednesday. According to the Central Water Commission, the river was flowing at 70.29 metres, above the warning mark of 70.26 metres.
The increase in water levels has raised concerns in low-lying parts of the city and areas close to the ghats. The danger level for the Ganga at Varanasi is 71.26 metres, while the highest flood level is recorded at 73.90 metres.
As a precaution, the district administration has temporarily stopped boat operations on the Ganga. Residents, devotees and visitors have also been advised to stay away from the ghats and avoid areas where strong currents or rising water could create a safety risk.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the river closely and assess the situation across vulnerable areas. Relief teams and local officials remain on alert so that assistance can be provided quickly if conditions deteriorate.
The administration’s immediate priority is to protect residents, maintain essential services and ensure that people affected by the rising water receive timely support.