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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh heavy rain alert for 30 districts across Uttar Pradesh, including Prayagraj, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Gorakhpur. As monsoon showers intensify, parts of the state are grappling with waterlogging, rising river levels, and flood-like conditions. Varanasi, in particular, is witnessing a critical situation as the Ganga River breaches the danger mark, submerging ghats and displacing thousands.
Key Highlights from the IMD Alert and Ground Reports
- IMD has issued a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in 30 districts including Prayagraj, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Pratapgarh
- Ganga River in Varanasi has crossed the danger mark of 71.26 metres, triggering flood-like conditions
- Boat operations have been suspended in Varanasi due to rising water levels
- Prayagraj and surrounding areas are experiencing severe waterlogging and river swelling
- Schools in Lucknow and Kanpur have been shut as a precautionary measure
- At least 12 deaths reported across the state due to flooding, lightning, and related incidents
Districts Under Heavy Rain Watch
The IMD has flagged the following districts for moderate to heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours:
- Eastern UP: Prayagraj, Varanasi, Mirzapur, Sonbhadra, Chandauli, Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Sant Kabir Nagar, Azamgarh, Mau, Ballia
- Central UP: Ayodhya, Sultanpur, Barabanki, Rae Bareli, Amethi, Pratapgarh, Sitapur
- Western UP: Kanpur, Unnao, Fatehpur, Jalaun, Hamirpur, Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi, Lalitpur
These regions are expected to witness thunderstorms, lightning, and isolated spells of extremely heavy rainfall. Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid low-lying areas, and follow local administration advisories.
Varanasi: Ghats Submerged, Thousands Displaced
Varanasi is facing one of its worst monsoon impacts in recent years:
- All 84 ghats have been submerged due to the Ganga’s rising levels
- Over 32 villages and 24 urban localities have reported flooding
- Approximately 6,500 residents have been evacuated to safer zones
- Relief camps have been set up by the district administration
- Boat services and religious activities along the riverfront have been suspended
The Central Water Commission reported the Ganga flowing at 69.98 metres on Thursday, inching dangerously close to the 71.26-metre danger mark.
Prayagraj and Ayodhya: Rising Rivers and Urban Flooding
In Prayagraj, the Ganga and Yamuna rivers are both swelling, leading to widespread waterlogging in residential and commercial zones. Ayodhya’s Saryu River has also breached its banks, flooding low-lying areas and disrupting local transport.
- Emergency response teams have been deployed in both cities
- Pumps and sandbags are being used to manage water inflow
- Local authorities have issued advisories against venturing near riverbanks
Impact on Daily Life and Infrastructure
- Schools in Lucknow, Kanpur, and Ayodhya have been closed until further notice
- Road traffic has slowed due to submerged highways and blocked underpasses
- Power outages and mobile network disruptions have been reported in flood-hit zones
- Agricultural fields in eastern UP are at risk of crop damage due to waterlogging
Weather Outlook and Advisory
The IMD forecasts continued rainfall across eastern and central UP for the next two days, with gradual tapering expected by Monday. However, isolated heavy showers may persist in some pockets.
Residents are urged to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel
- Stay away from waterlogged areas and open drains
- Keep emergency supplies and documents safe
- Follow updates from district disaster management authorities
Conclusion
Uttar Pradesh is currently navigating a severe monsoon phase, with multiple districts under alert and thousands affected by flooding. As the Ganga and other rivers swell, the state’s emergency response is in full swing. The next 48 hours will be critical in determining the extent of damage and the pace of recovery.
Source: The Daily Jagran
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