UP: Congress protests Varanasi waterlogging amid state-wide floods
Congress leaders in Varanasi protest against the UP government over severe waterlogging and flood-like conditions across the state.
The Congress party launched a fierce demonstration in Varanasi on Tuesday, targeting the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government. The protest was triggered by extreme waterlogging in the holy city following a significant rise in the Ganga River's water levels, a situation that mirrors the growing flood-like conditions across various parts of the state.
Chaos in the streets of Varanasi
As the Ganga swells, the streets of Varanasi have turned into treacherous zones. Speaking to the media during the demonstration, Mayank Chaubey, Vice President of the City Congress Committee, highlighted the daily struggles faced by the local population. He noted that the severe inundation has paralyzed movement, making it nearly impossible for commuters to navigate major intersections.
Chaubey described a scene of uncertainty and danger for residents. "This is a main road, yet there is no space to move; if you look at the approaching vehicles, it is impossible to tell whether they will crash or make it through," he remarked. He added that the situation has disrupted the lives of working professionals and students alike, with many being forced to turn back home because they simply cannot cross flooded junctions.
Allegations of fund misappropriation
The Congress leadership did not mince words regarding the state's administration, questioning the effectiveness of development spending. Chaubey pointed out the irony of grand political claims versus the ground reality.
- The 'Kyoto' and 'Spain' claims: He criticized leaders for promising to transform cities like Varanasi into 'Kyoto' or Gorakhpur into 'Spain,' calling these assertions "merely hot air."
- Missing funds: He questioned the whereabouts of massive sums of money—ranging from hundreds to thousands of crores—alleging that despite these figures being cited, basic amenities like roads, electricity, and water remain inadequate.
Flood threats intensify across Uttar Pradesh
The crisis in Varanasi is part of a larger, more alarming pattern of rising river levels across the state. The flood-like situation is creating significant displacement and economic disruption in several key regions.
Prayagraj: Sangam area submerged
In Prayagraj, the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers has seen water levels surge, submerging the Sangam area. The floodwaters have reportedly reached the vicinity of the Lete Hanuman Ji temple. Local residents, including Sanjay Nishad, reported that the water has been rising steadily for two days, forcing shopkeepers to move their businesses to higher ground and inhabitants to seek safer locations.
Moradabad: Ramganga crosses warning level
The situation is equally critical in Moradabad, where the Ramganga River has breached the warning mark. According to Manveer, staff at the Central Water Commission, the river's level reached 189.81 meters. The data indicates a rapid escalation:
- The water level rose by 15 cm overnight.
- A further increase of 2 to 3 cm was recorded since 5 AM.
- The total rise since yesterday has been approximately 30 cm.
With the water levels continuing to climb, authorities and residents remain on high alert as the threat of further flooding looms over the region.