Flood-like situation in Varanasi: Schools shut for two days as Ganga crosses danger mark

Varanasi's popular Namo Ghat along the Ganga, stands flooded following intense monsoons in the city. (Photo: X)

Continuous monsoon rains have caused the water level of the Ganga River in Varanasi to cross the danger mark, creating a flood-like situation in many low-lying areas, including Namo Ghat.

As the Ganga river crossed danger levels, all schools in Varanasi, across all boards and up to Class 12, have been ordered to remain shut for two days — August 5 and 6.

“In view of the rain and flood situation in Varanasi district, and following the directions of the District Magistrate, all schools from pre-primary to Class 12 across all boards will remain closed on August 5 and 6,” the District School Superintendent was quoted by DD News. Heads of institutions have been directed to strictly comply.

#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/9QlfzHQh6v

— ANI (@ANI) August 5, 2025

Uttar Pradesh Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna visited flood-affected areas on Monday and met with residents. He said the public expressed satisfaction with the relief efforts. “It is a natural disaster, and everyone must cooperate,” he was quoted by DD News as saying.

Due to the rising river levels since Saturday and persistent heavy rainfall, several areas in Varanasi were inundated. Authorities have banned all boat operations on the Ganga as a precaution.

As per the report, residents were seen wading through knee-deep water, and heavy waterlogging led to traffic congestion in several parts of the city.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has deployed an 11-member ministerial team to oversee relief efforts across 12 affected districts. He has directed district-level officials — including DMs, SPs, and CMOs — to remain on the ground and ensure 24-hour monitoring.

In a government release issued on Saturday, the Chief Minister also emphasized the need for transparency and swift action and warned that negligence in relief operations would not be tolerated, the report added. He further instructed ministers to visit their assigned districts, inspect relief camps, and engage directly with affected families.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), isolated heavy rainfall is likely in Uttar Pradesh between August 3 and 6. The CM has also called for proactive measures to counter misinformation and maintain public confidence during the crisis, the report added.