Ganga closure is going to happen once again in Haridwar. This 10-day closure is slated to take place fromMarch 22 to April 2 during which period the Gangnahar (Ganga canal) will be closed. Various works will be expedited during this period. It is pertinent to mention here that there is an annual closure of Gangnahar from Dussehra to Deepawali every year in Haridwar.

During this time the work of maintenance of canals, dams and desilting work in the Ganga is undertaken by the Uttar Pradesh Irrigation department. Apart from occasions like Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh, Ganga closure is not undertaken in general.

This time in view of the Kumbh Mela to be held in Haridwar during 2021, additional Ganga closure is to be undertaken for 10 days to execute various development works.  Gangnahar closure request has been sent to the Uttar Pradesh government on the request of the Kumbh Mela administration for Ganga closure from midnight of March 22 to midnight of April 1.  The works of Namami Gange will also be completed during this closure period. Various other works including pillars on the Ganga, highways, flyovers and bridges on the Ganga will also be dealt with during this period.

The Kumbh Mela officer Deepak Rawat said that during this time, the work of the Ganga temple (Mansingh Chhatri) on Har ki Paidi will also be executed.  According to Rawat, during the Ganga closure, work will be expedited on about four under construction bridges.

The sub divisional officer of Gangnahar Headworks UP, Vikrant Saini said that the Kumbh Mela administration has sought Ganga closure for the works related to Kumbh Mela. 

Till now orders have not been received, but it is hoped that due to the importance of Kumbh Mela works, orders will be received soon.