Admin on high alert as Ganga and Yamuna continue to swell

Time of India

14 hours ago

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Prayagraj: Water levels in both the Ganga and Yamuna continue to rise in Sangam City on Saturday, sparking flood concerns among residents.
Over the past 24 hours, the water level in the Ganga increased by 74 cm at Phaphamau and by 84 cm at Chhatnag while the Yamuna at Naini saw a significant rise of 1.10m.
On Saturday morning, the water level of the Yamuna at Naini was recorded at 82.63m, an increase of 1.10m in the past 24 hours. By 12pm, it rose further to 82.70m, continuing its upward trajectory, and at 4pm, the water level was recorded at 82.79m (+09 cm).
Similarly, the Ganga at Phaphamau was measured at 82.61m at 8am, an increase of 74 cm from the previous day. By noon, the water level rose to 82.73m, and at 4pm, the water level was 82.84m (+11 cm).
At Chhatnag, the Ganga water level stood at 82.13m in the morning, rising to 82.21m by noon, marking an increase of 84cm over 24 hours. In the evening, the water level at this downstream part of Sangam was recorded at 82.30m (+09 cm).
Danger level for both rivers is 84.734m. These sharp rises in water levels have raised alarm bells for those living in the low-lying areas along the riverbanks, especially in regions like Phaphamau, Chhatnag and Naini.
With the rise of the Yamuna, there is growing concern about a potential backflow, which could aggravate the flood situation, especially with water inundating several low-lying localities including Salori, Chota and Bada Bagahada, parts of Kareli, Ashok Nagar, Ganga Nagar near Rajapur etc.
The road on both sides of the Ganga has been submerged in floodwater for over three days. People living in homes affected by floods moved their belongings to the first floor and stored ration and items of their daily needs.
Although the situation at Buxi Band STP is under control, the authorities are keeping a close watch. The water level at this important STP stood at 82.79m at 4pm.
The increase in water levels caused significant flooding in several areas of Prayagraj, especially in Jhunsi and nearby villages.
By Saturday morning, floodwaters reached Hetapatti Road, and by the evening, the situation worsened, with the administration deploying four small boats to facilitate movement.
Villagers traveling to nearby areas like Garapur, Sahson, Koraon, Meja, Mauaima etc, now face a 10-15 km detour due to the flooding. In addition to road disruptions, the floods submerged hundreds of acres of rice and vegetable crops, causing significant agricultural losses.
In light of the growing flood threat, district authorities submitted a request for Rs 60 lakh in funding to the Relief Commissioner. The district administration, along with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), is closely monitoring the situation.
Authorities are ensuring that all activities are being carefully tracked, and additional measures are being implemented to handle the rising water levels.
"We have completed all preparations for the flood season. As soon as the water levels reach critical levels, relief camps will be activated, and assistance will be provided immediately to those in need. Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents," said district magistrate Ravindra Kumar Mandar.