low rainfall and soaring mercury have raised the frowns of the local traders at Har-ki-Pauri this season. The pilgrims are finding difficulty in taking holy dips due to the dipping water level.

A few days ahead of Char Dham pilgrimage to begin, low water levels has become a matter of concern for the locals as well as the pilgrims. The officials attribute it to the less inflow from the up-hills due to scanty rains and snowfall.

The main stream of Ganga is not in its normal flow these days. The water is being released from Bhagirathi indu and Bhimgoda barrage through th Ganga canals. But even these canals are  showing poor water flow these days.

Speaking to The Pioneer, member of local traders’ association Sanjeev Chaudhary said, “Char Dham Yatra is round the corner. We, the traders, look for this pilgrimage round the year for good business, but this time the water flow in Ganga is disappointing the pilgrims. The school vacations are beginning but the Ganga has not reached its full flow.”

When asked to comment on the issue, SDO Uttar Pradesh irrigation department, Sushil Yadav said, “The inflow of water in Ganga has been less this year due to less rainfall in 2015. If one observes the water level in Tehri reservoir which captures the rain water it is 24 metres down compared to last year. It is a natural hindrance. One can hardly do anything.”

A pilgrim, Ramakant Pachisia visiting Har Ki Pauri said, “The water is not waist deep at the main sanctum sanctorum. If it rains the flow might turn normal ."