Wed Jul 16 14:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article rewrite:
**Summary:**
The rising Ganges River in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, has submerged all 84 ghats, including the usually high-standing Namo Ghat. The administration has restricted access and photography at Namo Ghat for safety reasons. Rail traffic on the Malviya Bridge is slowed. While the water level is still below the danger mark, it is rising at 4 cm per hour. Boat operations are banned, and cremations are happening on rooftops or in the streets. Authorities are on alert. Tourism is affected, but visitors prioritize safety.
**News Article:**
**Ganges Engulfs Varanasi Ghats, Authorities Issue Safety Restrictions**
**Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh –** The rising waters of the Ganges River have submerged all 84 ghats in Varanasi, dramatically altering the city’s landscape and prompting safety measures from local authorities. The iconic Namo Ghat, one of the highest in the city, has also been impacted, with the water reaching the “Namaste” structures.
“Due to the increasing water levels, access to Namo Ghat has been restricted to ensure public safety,” stated a city official. “Photography and selfie-taking are also prohibited at this time.” Security personnel have been deployed to enforce these restrictions.
The rising river has also impacted infrastructure. Rail traffic on the Rajghat Bridge, also known as the Malviya Bridge, is proceeding at a reduced speed.
While the Ganges’ water level is currently below the danger mark according to the Central Water Commission’s flood report, it is rising at a rate of 4 centimeters per hour. All boat operations on the river have been suspended.
The flooding has forced changes to traditional rituals. With the ghats underwater, the famous Ganga Aarti is now being performed from rooftops. Cremations are taking place on the roofs of buildings at Manikarnika Ghat, and in the narrow streets around Harishchandra Ghat.
Authorities including the Jal Police, NDRF (National Disaster Response Force), and flood control units are on high alert, and flood watch posts have been activated along the ghats.
The submerged ghats have impacted tourism. “Of course, we’re disappointed we can’t see the ghats or take a boat ride,” said one tourist. “But we understand that safety is the priority, and we plan to return when the waters recede.”
First Piper 