Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 3 reviewed the flood situation in Varanasi after the water level of the Ganga crossed the warning mark amid continuous rainfall in the region. Modi, who represents Varanasi in the Lok Sabha, spoke with District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar and sought a detailed update on the situation.
During the telephone conversation, the Prime Minister asked the district administration about the current water level of the Ganga and the arrangements being made for people affected by flooding. He also sought information about the facilities available at relief camps and the measures being taken to protect residents in vulnerable areas.
Modi directed the district administration to carry out relief work on a priority basis and ensure that people affected by the flooding receive necessary assistance. He also instructed officials to make immediate arrangements for additional relief material wherever required.
The review came as the Ganga continued to remain above its warning level in Varanasi. According to data reported from the Central Water Commission, the river was recorded at 70.29 metres, compared with the warning level of 70.26 metres. The danger level in Varanasi is 71.26 metres, while the highest flood level is 73.90 metres.
The rise in the Ganga's water level has increased concerns in areas located close to the river and in low lying parts of the city. The Varuna river has also contributed to flooding and waterlogging in several locations. Authorities have therefore increased surveillance and are monitoring areas that could be affected by further rises in water levels.
As part of the precautionary measures, the district administration suspended boat operations on the Ganga. Residents, devotees and visitors have been advised to avoid approaching the ghats or entering areas where strong currents could pose a risk. The suspension of boat services is intended to reduce the possibility of accidents as the river continues to remain swollen.
The flood situation has affected several localities in Varanasi. Recent reports said around 11 localities and wards had experienced partial flooding. The Varuna river flooding affected hundreds of families, while authorities prepared to move residents to safer locations whenever necessary.
Relief camps have also been established to accommodate people displaced or affected by the flooding. According to district administration figures reported on September 2, 13 relief camps were operating, with 935 people from 219 affected families staying at the camps. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that people staying in these facilities receive essential services and assistance.
District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar has directed officials to remain alert and maintain continuous surveillance in affected areas. The administration has also been instructed to arrange immediate evacuation whenever required. Police and disaster response teams have been asked to maintain vigilance and respond quickly if the situation worsens.
The Prime Minister's review focused on both the rising river level and the humanitarian response. Relief camps and evacuation arrangements are important parts of the administration's preparations as authorities assess the impact of the continuing rainfall and rising water levels.
The situation is being monitored closely because the Ganga has not yet reached the danger level, but its level remains above the warning mark. The difference between the reported water level and the danger mark means authorities continue to have to monitor the river closely for any further increase.
The administration is also keeping watch on the Varuna river and areas affected by waterlogging. Flooding in these areas can disrupt transportation and daily activities even when the main river has not crossed the danger level.
The suspension of boat operations is among the immediate safety measures adopted by officials. Such restrictions are intended to protect boat operators, residents and visitors from strong currents and unpredictable river conditions.
The relief response also includes preparing additional supplies and making arrangements for residents who may need to move to safer locations. Officials have been asked to ensure that necessary facilities are available at relief camps and that additional resources can be provided quickly if the number of affected people increases.
For Varanasi, the rising Ganga is also significant because many areas of the city are closely connected to the river and its ghats. Any further increase in the water level could affect additional low lying locations and public activity near the river.
The district administration is therefore continuing its monitoring operations while coordinating relief and rescue preparations. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to follow safety instructions and avoid entering flooded areas or locations with strong water currents.
Prime Minister Modi's intervention comes in his capacity as the Lok Sabha representative for Varanasi as well as the Prime Minister. His discussion with the district magistrate focused on understanding the ground situation and ensuring that the administration remains prepared to respond to the changing flood conditions.
The immediate priority remains the safety of residents and the provision of essential assistance to affected families. Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the Ganga and Varuna rivers, assess vulnerable areas and move people to safer locations if necessary.
With rainfall continuing and river levels remaining elevated, the situation could change depending on further rainfall and upstream water conditions. The district administration has therefore maintained a heightened level of preparedness.
For now, the Ganga remains above the warning mark but below the reported danger level in Varanasi. Boat operations have been suspended, relief camps are functioning and officials are monitoring flood affected areas. The administration has also been directed to ensure that relief materials and essential facilities reach people without delay.