Ganga River Levels Surge, Prompting Flood Concerns in Kanpur

The water level of the Ganga River in Kanpur continues to rise, raising alarms among residents of nearby villages. Floodwaters have devastated crops in several areas, and water has encroached upon fields in three villages. As of Thursday morning, the Ganga was recorded at a level of 26 centimetres below the warning mark in Shuklaganj, while the river’s flow at the Ganga Barrage remained on the rise.

Authorities responded by opening all 30 gates of the Ganga Barrage, releasing a substantial flow of 375,987 cusecs of water downstream. Additionally, the Narora Dam contributed 186,672 cusecs of water towards the Ganga Barrage, while 128,340 cusecs were released from Haridwar. This coordinated effort to manage water levels aims to mitigate potential flooding risks.

In Kanpur, the flooding has already impacted key areas along the riverbank. Steps leading to various ghats have been partially submerged, with the Shri Anandeswar Temple in Parmat facing significant inundation. Officials have erected barricades to limit access, anticipating a large crowd during the upcoming Independence Day and Janmashtami celebrations on August 15 and 16, respectively. A district official stated, “This was done as a large crowd is expected at the ghats for Independence Day and Janmashtami celebrations.”

Residents in the affected villages are on alert as the Ganga continues to rise. The situation remains dynamic, with authorities closely monitoring water levels and implementing safety measures to protect both people and property. As the community prepares for the festivities, the focus will be on ensuring the safety of all attendees.

The response to the rising water levels reflects the ongoing challenges faced by regions along the Ganga, where seasonal flooding is a recurring issue. Local officials continue to emphasize the importance of preparedness and public awareness as they navigate this critical period.