Varanasi: After coming below the warning level of 70.26 meters, water level of Ganga continued receding with the pace of 1 centimetre per hour on Sunday.It could not, however, bring major respite in the flood-hit areas, especially along its flooded tributary Varuna. Chandauli administration issued warning about opening of overflowing dams.By reaching close to the danger level of 71.26 metres, flood water had entered the localities in 16 wards in city areas and in 24 villages. A total of 4,048 people, including children and women from 877 families, were compelled either to shift to safe places or reach flood relief camps. Crop on 132 hectares land was also affected by flood.As per the Central Water Commission’s report, water level of Ganga receded to 69.76 metres against the warning level of 70.26 metres and was receding at the pace of 1 centimetre per hour.“Despite Ganga adopting receding trend, all arrangements for relief, including shelter homes and camps, distribution of food, milk and other essential articles among affected people will continue till they start returning home,” said district magistrate Satyendra Kumar, mentioning that departments concerned were directed to complete preparations for post flood situation as well.Although the water level of Ganga was receding, it left localities along its tributary Varuna marooned and kept people away from houses and streets that were still submerged.Almost all steps and even upper platforms are still inundated and the struggle to take bodies for cremation at Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats continues. Ganga Aartis are also being performed on the terrace of houses at Dashaswamedh and other ghats.
