Receding Waters of Ganga and Yamuna Leave Behind Flood Aftermath

The water levels of Ganga and Yamuna have started to recede but left settlements inundated with dirt, sludge, and algae. Villagers face challenges with mobility, food, and slow clean-up operations following heavy rains that caused major flooding and crop damage.

The water levels of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers commenced a gradual decrease on Wednesday, yet the settlements remain inundated. Floodwaters have left behind significant amounts of dirt, swamps, and algae.

"Major flooding occurred due to heavy rains. Although the water is now receding, residents have faced severe challenges this year," reported one villager. Another resident highlighted the remaining dirt and sludge, which has rendered the paths impassable.

"We are confronting numerous problems. The dirt accumulation is substantial, impairing our ability to move. We lack food supplies, and the cleanup operations are progressing at a snail's pace," the villager added. Earlier in the week, incessant rains in the hilly regions caused an abrupt rise in river levels, submerging the Moradabad railway station underpass and flooding nearby villages including Bhagatpur, Bhojpur, and Munda Pandey.

The railway station underpass was submerged, restricting access and causing significant waterlogging on the roads, thereby impeding commuter movement.

In the lower areas of Prayagraj, residents were forced to evacuate as floodwaters entered their homes. Severely affected areas include Baghada, Salori, and Rajapur. Similarly, Ayodhya's Saryu river surpassed the danger mark due to continuous rains in the hilly regions.

On Saturday, farmers faced substantial crop damage, with reports indicating that 60 per cent of sugarcane and 70 per cent of paddy crops were adversely affected by the weather conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)