High alert has been issued in all flood posts in Haridwar district as the water level of Ganga is rising. Although Ganga is presently flowing nearly 1 metre below the danger mark, the local police have advised the villages living in Pathri area not to go towards the embankments. Announcements are also being made on loudspeakers by Pathri police, cautioning the people about their movements.
For the second consecutive day, the water level of Ganga remained close to the danger mark. On Thursday, the water level was recorded 292.25 metres while the danger level is at 294 metres. The river continues to be in spate following the torrential rains in the hill areas of Uttarakhand. The rain forecast by the metrological department has set the district disaster management team on the alert mode and they said they are prepared for any emergency. Meanwhile, in Gaumukh from where Ganga originates and in parts of Uttarkashi and Chamoli districts, the river has been flowing full spate over the past one week.
The Haridwar district administration had issued alert after heavy shower lashed the hill areas of the State, resulting in the steady rise of the water level of Ganga.
People living in the low-lying villages of laksar, Khanpur, Bishenpur, Katarpur, Shahpur, Bhagmal and Shyampur Kangri areas of the district and flood Chaukis have been directed to be alert. Patrolling by police during the night hours has also been initiated.
Speaking to The Pioneer, SDM Manish Singh said, “We are making regular alert announcements in the low- lying areas near Ganga. However, many people who have encroached upon the embankments of the Ganga canal and who are living in shanties have not moved to safer areas in spite of our repeated warning. A flood like threat hovering over the district, we have asked the flood control rooms to be alert. While the warning level is at 293 metres, the danger mark is at 294.
Things turning grim, our team is prepared for any emergency. We are specially focused on the low-lying villages.”
While expressing concern over the developing situation in swelling Ganga, the district disaster management officer Meera Kaintura said, “We have prepared 200 Apda Mitras who are ready to render services in the hour of need.
A constant vigil is being maintained and we are in constant touch with the officers of Bhimgoda barrage. Besides, we are monitoring the water level of Ganga from hour to hour. Further, we are in contact with the flood posts though bulk SMS and e-mails.”