The Ganga River in Haridwar has crossed the warning level of 293 metres, prompting authorities to issue a high alert and step up monitoring and preparedness measures along the riverbanks. The continuous increase in the water level is a direct result of heavy rainfall in the upper reaches of the Himalayas and the regular discharge of water from the Tehri Dam. While the situation is currently under control, the rising water level poses a significant risk to low-lying areas and settlements along the river, as well as to the ongoing pilgrimage and tourism activities in the city. The district administration and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been placed on high alert and are continuously monitoring the situation.
The rising water level is a cause for concern for residents in areas such as Kankhal and the surrounding low-lying residential areas. Authorities have begun making announcements through loudspeakers, urging people to avoid the riverbanks and move to safer areas. The administration has also advised pilgrims and tourists to be cautious and to refrain from performing rituals or taking baths in the swollen river. The situation is particularly critical as a large number of devotees visit the holy city of Haridwar daily. The timely and effective dissemination of information is crucial to preventing any loss of life or property.
In addition to the Ganga, the water levels of several other major rivers in Uttarakhand, including the Yamuna, are also on the rise due to the ongoing monsoon. The regular discharge of water from the Tehri Dam is a necessary measure to maintain safety at the dam itself, but it adds to the flow of the Ganga downstream. The Central Water Commission and the district administration are working in close coordination to manage the water flow and to ensure that a timely warning is issued if the water level rises further. The SDRF has deployed teams with rescue boats and equipment at various points along the river, ready to respond to any emergency.
The continuous monsoon rainfall has led to a number of landslides and road closures across the state, adding to the challenges faced by authorities. The rising river levels are a grim reminder of the need for effective disaster management and infrastructure resilience in the state. The administration is working with all stakeholders, including the police, fire services, and local community leaders, to ensure a coordinated response to the evolving situation.
