Varanasi: Rising Ganga Water Levels Prompt Safety Measures and Boat Operation Restrictions

In light of the rapidly increasing water levels of the Ganga River, the Varanasi police have issued stringent directives to ensure the safety of pilgrims and maintain the sanctity of the revered Dashashwamedh Ghat. The rising waters have necessitated a halt in the operation of small boats and a strict regulation of boat gatherings during the Ganga Aarti, a significant daily ritual attended by numerous devotees and tourists.

Immediate Measures and Safety Directives

Mithilesh Yadav, the in-charge of the River Police Station, led a crucial meeting with local boatmen at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This meeting aimed to address the challenges posed by the rising water levels and to implement immediate safety measures. The key decisions made during this meeting include:

1. Suspension of Small Boats: The operation of manually operated small boats, typically carrying 10-12 passengers, has been suspended until the Ganga’s water levels return to normal.
2. Regulation of Large Boats: Larger boats will be permitted to operate but with a reduced passenger load to ensure safety. Additionally, all passengers must wear life jackets.
3. Restriction on Boat Gatherings: To ensure an unobstructed view of the Ganga Aarti for pilgrims, boats are prohibited from congregating in front of Dashashwamedh Ghat during the ceremony. Boats from other ghats will not be allowed to remain at Dashashwamedh Ghat during the Aarti.

Enhanced Vigilance and Enforcement

The enforcement of these new rules will not solely rely on the police. Union leaders of the boatmen will also monitor the river to ensure compliance with these guidelines. This collaborative effort aims to maintain order and prevent any accidents due to the high water levels.

Furthermore, the police have increased river patrolling to reinforce these measures. Strict action will be taken against any boatmen found violating these orders, ensuring the safety and security of all riverine activities.

Rising Water Levels: Current Status

As of Tuesday morning, the Central Water Commission recorded the water level of the Ganga at 62.34 meters, with an alarming rise of 20 mm per hour. Although the river is still approximately 8 meters below the warning level of 70.262 meters, the significant increase since Sunday has already impacted various activities along the ghats. The rising waters have disrupted the interconnectivity of many ghats and halted cremations at the lower steps of the Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats.

The situation is similarly concerning in nearby areas such as Ghazipur and Ballia, where the Ganga is flowing almost 8 meters and 3 meters below the danger mark, respectively.

Impact on Pilgrimages and Local Life

Varanasi, one of the most sacred cities in India, draws millions of pilgrims each year. The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a central aspect of the spiritual experience in Varanasi. The ritual involves a spectacular display of lamps and chanting, offering a visual and spiritual feast to attendees. However, the rising waters of the Ganga threaten to disrupt these spiritual activities, necessitating strict safety protocols.

The city's residents, particularly those whose livelihoods depend on the river, are significantly affected. Boatmen, who provide essential transportation across the Ganga, face temporary suspension of services, impacting their daily earnings. The suspension of cremations at certain ghats also affects the traditional last rites performed by many families, adding a layer of complexity to the current situation.

The swift action taken by the Varanasi police and the cooperation of the boatmen’s unions exemplify the city’s resilience and commitment to safety amidst natural challenges. As the Ganga’s water levels continue to rise, the enforcement of these new regulations will be crucial in protecting both the local populace and the multitude of pilgrims who flock to this holy city. The situation remains under close watch, with hopes that the Ganga’s levels will soon recede, allowing normalcy to return to the sacred ghats of Varanasi.