5 dead in Varanasi as heavy rain triggers waterlogging, electrocutions

Five people were killed in separate rain-related incidents in Varanasi after heavy overnight rain caused waterlogging across the city, officials said Tuesday.

Two people died of electrocution while carrying out decoration work at a house in the Sigra police station area. Police identified them as 45-year-old Salimuddin and his 17-year-old son Anees.

In another incident in Chetganj, 50-year-old Triloki Modanwal suffered an electric shock while switching on a water cooler at a rented premises in Kali Mahal. He was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

A couple was also killed after a house wall collapsed on them at the Manduadih Industrial Estate. Police said the couple, who were from Bihar, were living in the rented accommodation.

Waterlogging disrupts city

Heavy rain since Monday night left several parts of Varanasi waterlogged.

Sir Sunderlal Hospital at Banaras Hindu University was surrounded by water, causing difficulties for patients and their attendants.

The rising water level of the Ganga has also affected activity along the riverfront.

The administration has prohibited boat operations in the river as a precaution. Water has reached the Harishchandra and Manikarnika ghats, forcing cremations to be shifted to higher steps and rooftops.

The rising river also affected the famous Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The ceremony was held on a rooftop instead of the ghat.

Authorities are monitoring the river as the water level continues to rise.
(Inputs from PTI)