DDUGU hosts natl meet to mark 5 years of NEP
Ensure best medical treatment of needy patients: CM Yogi to officials
Demolition in progress amid tight security for widening of four-lane road in Kashi
Ahead of I-Day, Women SHGs helping VMC prepare 2.5L flags
BJP manipulated 2024 LS polls, won Kashi through vote theft: Ajay Rai
Minor boy held for acid attack on girl
Was checking how emergency door works, flyer tells police
Over 18L kids to get deworming medicine in Varanasi today
Har Ghar Tiranga campaign in Varanasi from August 13
Man accused of murder held after encounter in Sonbhadra
Streets flood as heavy rain lashes Delhi-NCR; visuals show traffic chaos, rising Ganga in Varanasi
Monsoon rains have caused the Ganga River in Varanasi to approach the danger mark, submerging ghats, while the Saryu River in Ayodhya is also rising. Continuous rainfall has led to waterlogging in several Uttar Pradesh cities, prompting school closures in Lucknow for students up to Class 8. In Varanasi, rising river levels have inundated residential areas, causing difficulties for residents.
An Akasa Airlines flight from Varanasi to Bengaluru faced a delay when a passenger, Ajay Tiwari, mistakenly opened the emergency exit handle cover. The incident occurred as the flight was preparing for takeoff, prompting its return to the apron for safety checks.
SHG women send rakhi to soldiers
Research, innovation key to boosting farmers income
Gkp DM orders swift measures for erosion-hit Bagha Dewar village
Man accuses wife, her lover of assault; files FIR
Passenger opens emergency exit handle cover, delays flight
Soldier shoots self at PAC camp
Isro inspires youth with space tech event
Expedite work of SahjanwaDohrighat rail line project: DC
Walk to promote bone & joint health
IIT (BHU) hosts Japanese team to strengthen collaboration
2 madrassa teachers booked in UP for assaulting 12-year-old hostel student
Bhadohi: Two teachers at a madrassa in this Uttar Pradesh district have been booked for allegedly brutally assaulting and threatening a 12-year-old student for two consecutive days, police said on Friday. According to the police, the boy, who hails from Jalhoopur village in Varanasis Chaubepur area, was staying in the hostel of Madrassa Imdadul Uloom Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Uttar Pradesh CEO rejects Rahul Gandhis voter list manipulation claims
LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Navdeep Rinwa rejected the claims made by Congress MP and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, that the names of Aditya Srivastava and Vishal Singh appeared in the voters lists of other states as well as in assembly constituencies in Varanasi and Lucknow. Rahul Gandhi, in a press conference on Thursday, had accused the Election Commission of manipulating data, stating that Aditya Srivastava (EPIC No. FPP6437040), son of S.P. Srivastava, and Vishal Singh (EPIC No. INB2722288), son of Mahipal Singh, were listed as voters in multiple constituencies, in violation of electoral rules. He cited voter data published by the Election Commission of India on March 16, 2025, to support his claims. However, a fact-check by CEO Rinwa revealed that the names mentioned were not listed as voters in the constituencies claimed. Gandhi alleged that Aditya Srivastava was listed as a voter in Assembly Constituency 158, Jogeshwari East, Booth No. 197 in Mumbai, and Vishal Singh in Assembly Constituency 174, Mahadevapura, Booth No. 458 in Bengaluru, and that both were also shown as voters in Assembly Constituency 173, Lucknow East, Booth No. 84. The CEOs office, after verifying records, clarified that Aditya Srivastava is still enrolled in Assembly Constituency 174, Mahadevapura (Booth No. 458, Part No. 1265), and Vishal Singh in the same constituency (Booth No. 513, Part No. 926). Their names do not appear in Lucknow East or Varanasi Cantt constituencies as claimed. Adityas name was also absent from Mumbai Suburbans Jogeshwari East Assembly 158. The clarification came amid rising political tension over alleged voter suppression. The CEO stressed that the allegations made during the Congress press conference were factually incorrect and based on a misreading of the electoral rolls. Meanwhile, reacting to Rahul Gandhis press conference and the claims made therein, UP Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya posted on X: It was meant to be an atom bomb but its echo wasnt even as loud as Diwali crackers just smoke and illusion.
Passenger opens plane emergency exit cover on runway while take off at Varanasi airport
LUCKNOW: A curious case of ignorance came to the fore at Varanasi airport on Thursday evening when a passenger opened the emergency exit handle cover on board an Akasa Airlines flight leading it to return to the apron from the runway. The authorities concerned asked all the passengers to leave the plane immediately. The flight, bound for Bengaluru, took off with a delay of one-hour after the completion of security checks. The erring passenger was taken into custody where he admitted to have opened the emergency exit cover by mistake as it was his first flight ever. The incident took place at 7:55 pm when Akasa Airlines flight QP-1491 was ready to depart from Varanasi to Bengaluru. Suddenly a passenger, named Ajay Tiwari, opened the cover of the emergency exit handle. Witnessing it, a crew member informed the pilot immediately. The pilot contacted Air Traffic Control (ATC), and the plane was moved back from the runway to the apron. As the aircraft was stopped, all passengers were deplaned as per security rules. Within no time, the airport security and police arrived for investigation. Meanwhile, passenger Ajay Tiwari was taken into custody by Phulpur police after a complaint from Akasa Airlines Delhi office. Hailing from Lambhua in Sultanpur district, Ajay Tiwari said that he was working at a cement factory as a boom lift operator in Karur, Tamil Nadu. He was flying to Bengaluru and then planned to go to Tamil Nadu. He was travelling by air for the first time. As per police sources, Ajay Tiwari admitted during questioning that he opened the emergency exit cover by mistake. He broke down while grilling and said he only wanted to read how the emergency exit works. Ajay Tiwari was seated at 16A, near the emergency exit. Other passengers told the crew he was acting strangely after boarding. He started touching the emergency gate, which alarmed all the passengers on board. When the cover was opened, there was panic among passengers, crew, and pilots. A crew member quickly replaced the cover and the passenger was taken off the plane. As per the safety experts, the emergency exit handle has a cover to stop it from opening by mistake. If this cover is removed, the handle can stay open, which may cause the emergency exit door to open during landing and it could be very dangerous. The cover is made so it cannot open by accident. It must be pulled open with force. Meanwhile, Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport director Puneet Gupta said that only the airline concerned had full information about the case. The complaint against Ajay Tiwari was made by the airline authorities. A passenger can open the emergency exit only after trying hard enough.
Varanasi self-help group women send rakhis to soldiers via Indian post; over 1 lakh envelopes sold
Women from Varanasi's self-help groups, Son Chiraiya and Gulabo Mata, presented rakhis to the Post Master General to be sent to soldiers via Indian Post. Colonel Vinod Kumar guaranteed safe delivery, boosting soldiers' morale.
IMS BHU hosts bone and joint week walk to promote bone health awareness
Banaras Hindu University's Institute of Medical Sciences observed Bone and Joint Week with a walk led by Prof. SN Sankhwar, emphasizing bone health for the elderly. Prof. Amit Rastogi addressed fall prevention and osteoporosis, aligning with the Indian Orthopaedic Association's theme. Dr. Sanjay Yadav highlighted teamwork in healthcare, concluding with a commitment to proactive health measures.
Varanasi: IIVRs vegetable-based farming model boosts farmers income
The ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research's vegetable-based Integrated Farming System (IFS) model, supported by UPCAR, Lucknow, is significantly improving farmers' livelihoods. Integrating aquatic vegetable production, livestock rearing, and vermicomposting, the model generates substantial annual income, up to 6.5 per 1 invested per acre. UPCAR's Director General suggests replicating the model across Uttar Pradesh through cluster-based training programs.
UP shocker: Soldier shoots himself at PAC camp in Sonbhadra district; probe on
A tragic incident occurred at the PAC camp in Amwar, Sonbhadra district, where Constable Sandeep Singh, 26, fatally shot himself with his service rifle. The incident took place around 4 AM, prompting immediate response from fellow soldiers who rushed him to CHC Duddhi. Unfortunately, doctors pronounced him dead upon arrival. Authorities are investigating the reasons behind this devastating act.
Lucknow: Schools up to Class 8 to remain shut on Friday due to heavy rain and waterlogging
Due to heavy rainfall and waterlogging, all schools in Lucknow district, from pre-primary to Class 8, will remain closed on August 8, 2025. The decision, impacting both urban and rural schools, follows warnings from the India Meteorological Department. Elsewhere in Uttar Pradesh, rising river levels have caused flooding, particularly in Varanasi, where residents are stranded and in need of assistance.
Bhaisahi river in Mau district breathes new life, boosts employment in region
Floodwaters in houses, power cuts trouble Varanasi as Ganga recedes
AI to rescue city burdened by crowds
Women trainees at BHU craft rakhis for soldiers at border
BHU VC urges for united efforts to make univ global academic hub
Another sex racket busted in guest house in Varanasi, 10 detained
BHU vice chancellor holds meeting to discuss development and challenges
Banaras Hindu University's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi, convened a meeting. Directors, deans, and key officials attended the meeting. They discussed research, innovation, student welfare, and university rankings. The VC urged teamwork to advance Mahamana's mission. Participants highlighted initiatives and challenges. The VC emphasized prioritizing challenges and fostering a sense of urgency.
BHU women trainees craft rakhis for soldiers at border; Raksha Sutra made with pride and gratitude
Women at Banaras Hindu University's Integrated Rural Development Centre crafted 'Raksha Sutras' for soldiers on the border, ensuring their wrists aren't bare this Raksha Bandhan. Coordinator Prof. Alok Kumar Pandey lauded the effort of these women, who are training in sewing and embroidery. Instructor Aarti Vishwakarma highlighted the pride the women feel knowing their rakhis will reach the soldiers.
Delhi: Yamuna crosses warning mark after heavy monsoon rainfall
The Yamuna River in Delhi has surpassed the warning level due to persistent monsoon rains, causing concern as river levels rise across northern India. Uttar Pradesh faces flooding in Prayagraj, while the Ganga River in Varanasi nears the danger mark, prompting a ban on boats. Himachal Pradesh reports significant monsoon-related casualties and economic losses.
Supermom gifts 42ltrs breast milk, saves 30 babies
Many areas still flooded even as Ganga snails to recession
PWD engr faces UP min wrath for opening bridge without inauguration
Flood threat in Gorakhpur as Rapti river swells
Gkp man cycles to Annapurna Base Camp, hoists Tricolour at 13,550ft
Madrassa students spotted in KV Dham, let go after probe
Uttar Pradesh minister Sanjay Nishads Ganga at your doorstep remark amid floods draws flak
LUCKNOW: Having a penchant for kicking up rows with his statements, state fisheries minister and NISAHD party chief, Sanjay Nishad, has done it again. With the state in the grip of floods and amid rising levels of rivers Ganga and Yamuna in several parts, Nishads remarks on water from the river Ganga raised eyebrows when he said that the holy river was reaching the doorstep to clean the feet. The remark was seen as insensitive and drew the Opposition's ire on social media. A video of Nishad's visit to the Kanpur Dehat area quickly went viral. In the video, the minister is seen surrounded by a group of people, one of whom is talking about how deep inside the house the water had reached. At this, Nishad said: Ganga Maiya reaches your doorsteps to clean your feet, and this will take you directly to heaven. The remark quickly triggered a response from the Uttar Pradesh unit of the Congress, which shared the clip on X and wrote: The minister himself lives in a posh area of Lucknow; forget Ganga, not even a drain flows by his doorstep. So, does this mean it should be inferred that the minister will go straight... there? However, during his visit, the minister got a retort from the villagers who told him to stay with them in their flooded houses and get the river Gangas blessings. As the video went viral, Nishad reportedly clarified that his remarks were made in a lighter vein. I was on a visit to a flood-hit area of Nishads where, while interacting with them, I said that for seeking salvation, people from faraway places come to take the holy dip in the Ganges and here, Ganga Maiya was right at their doorstep, the minister told media persons. We Nishads worship rivers our source of life and livelihoods. So the remark has its own context, the minister added. Apart from Congress, Samajwadi Party spokesperson Sharvendra Bikram Singh also slammed Nishad for his remarks. He is not aware of the ground reality and the situation in which flood-affected people are living. The state government has failed to provide relief to the people, and its ministers are looking for photo opportunities, he said. Singh added that at a time when people were losing their homes and livelihoods due to floods, such statements showed how disconnected UP ministers were from ground reality. Several parts of Uttar Pradesh, including Lucknow, Kanpur, Prayagraj, and Varanasi, have been in the grip of massive waterlogging and floods triggered by heavy rain, and water has also been entering homes in low-lying areas.
A ladies' club hosted a lively gangster-themed party in a dimly-lit venue, with attendees dressed in black. The event featured engaging games like a treasure hunt organized by Pooja Madhok and others, along with energetic musical performances. Members enjoyed dances and couldn't resist hitting the dance floor when 'Arjan Vailly' played.
U.P. Transport Minister Daya Shankar Singh rebuked a PWD engineer for prematurely inaugurating a bridge in Ballia without informing him. Singh accused the engineer of acting under the influence of a BSP MLA, alleging the unauthorized opening was a deliberate attempt to deny him credit.
Drone Crashes at Varanasi Station Amid Crackdown on Unauthorised Flights
The incident comes at a time when Uttar Pradesh is witnessing heightened surveillance and stricter enforcement of drone regulations
Gangas fury eases in Kashi, Mirzapur; Ghazipur & Ballia still in peril
VMC steps up flood relief measures; QRT deployed in Kashi
Family feud: Man with 2 kids jumps into Ganga
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BLWs staff pledge for cleanliness efforts
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Modis old mantra, newly voiced
Shivanand Pandit On August 2, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Indians to prioritise Indian-made, Swadeshi goods in response to mounting global economic uncertainty and the United States decision to impose a 25 per cent tariff on Indian exports. Speaking in his Varanasi constituency, Modi appealed for a cross-party, grassroots movement to reinforce domestic manufacturing [] The post Modis old mantra, newly voiced appeared first on Northlines .
Spirit Air unveils flight operational plan for Bihar under UDAN scheme
Spirit Air announced its operational plan in Bihar under the UDAN scheme, connecting upcoming airports like Birpur, Saharsa, and Muzaffarpur to Varanasi, Bangalore, and Bihta. Phase II includes international connectivity to Kathmandu and other Nepalese cities.
UP floods: Over 25 ghats submerged; families wait endlessly to cremate bodies of loved ones
LUCKNOW: The flood situation in Uttar Pradesh, especially in the cities like Prayagraj and Varanasi has disrupted the daily life of people, who now rely on boats for commutation. The most painful is that people are facing a lot of difficulty in performing the last rites of the deceased. People have to now wait for 4-5 hours to perform the last rites of their dear ones who left for heavenly abode. At least there is a wait of 4-5 hours for a body to be cremated as all the cremation grounds have submerged and the last rites are now being conducted at the electric crematorium where serpentine queues could be seen, said a source of Prayagraj district administration. The flood situation in Prayagraj is worsening by the day, with both the Ganga and Yamuna rivers flowing above the danger mark. More than 25 ghats of the Ganga-Yamuna have completely submerged including the cremation grounds located at Rasulabad, Daraganj, and Phaphamau. As a result, crowds of mourners with bodies for last rites are gathering at the electric crematorium. Until two days ago, only about five bodies were arriving daily, but now the number has surged to 2530 cremations per day. A similar situation prevails at the Phaphamau Ghat electric crematorium. Under normal circumstances, last rites are performed beneath the Shastri Bridge in Daraganj. However, with the entire ghat submerged, cremations are now taking place on the road near the dam, where families must wait for hours for their turn. Currently, around six to seven pyres burn simultaneously at the site. With such overwhelming demand, many families arriving from Prayagraj and nearby districts for last rites are being turned away from the ghats. Those who make it to the electric crematorium face hours-long waits in queue. Meanwhile, the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj continue to flow above the danger mark, exacerbating the crisis.
Over 25 ghats submerged; families wait endlessly to cremate bodies of loved ones in UP's Prayagraj
LUCKNOW: The flood situation in Uttar Pradesh, especially in the cities like Prayagraj and Varanasi has disrupted the daily life of people, who now rely on boats for commutation. The most painful is that people are facing a lot of difficulty in performing the last rites of the deceased. People have to now wait for 4-5 hours to perform the last rites of their dear ones who left for heavenly abode. At least there is a wait of 4-5 hours for a body to be cremated as all the cremation grounds have submerged and the last rites are now being conducted at the electric crematorium where serpentine queues could be seen, said a source of Prayagraj district administration. The flood situation in Prayagraj is worsening by the day, with both the Ganga and Yamuna rivers flowing above the danger mark. More than 25 ghats of the Ganga-Yamuna have completely submerged including the cremation grounds located at Rasulabad, Daraganj, and Phaphamau. As a result, crowds of mourners with bodies for last rites are gathering at the electric crematorium. Until two days ago, only about five bodies were arriving daily, but now the number has surged to 2530 cremations per day. A similar situation prevails at the Phaphamau Ghat electric crematorium. Under normal circumstances, last rites are performed beneath the Shastri Bridge in Daraganj. However, with the entire ghat submerged, cremations are now taking place on the road near the dam, where families must wait for hours for their turn. Currently, around six to seven pyres burn simultaneously at the site. With such overwhelming demand, many families arriving from Prayagraj and nearby districts for last rites are being turned away from the ghats. Those who make it to the electric crematorium face hours-long waits in queue. Meanwhile, the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Prayagraj continue to flow above the danger mark, exacerbating the crisis.
BJP government in UP fundamentally against education, democratic rights: Akhilesh Yadav
LUCKNOW: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday launched a fierce attack on the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh, accusing it of being fundamentally against education and democratic rights. Addressing the media at the Janeshwar Mishra Park here, Yadav criticised the state government's recent actions targeting the SP's 'PDA Pathshala' campaign, where volunteers have been conducting informal classes in areas where primary schools were recently shut or merged. Calling the BJP he biggest mafia for being against education, Yadav said even the British never filed FIRs for running educational initiatives. The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister also condemned the filing of police cases against PDA Pathshala volunteers and asserted that such classes would continue until the government reopens the shut schools and appoints teachers and principals. This is not going to stop because of police threats, Yadav said. He demanded the complete rollback of the school merger plan and the immediate reopening of closed primary schools. Yadav pointed out that when the Samajwadi Party was in power, it set up new schools and launched innovative education models, including cultural schools in the state capital. He accused the BJP of failing to support or sustain the initiative. Citing the recent roof collapse incident at a school in the chief minister's home district that left students injured, Yadav said the poor condition of schools highlights the government's neglect. The SP leader also targeted the state's Panchayati Raj Department for allegedly issuing a controversial letter that selectively focused on specific castes and communities. He called it unconstitutional and said the party would take the matter to court. If any illegality is committed, action must be taken, but targeting people based on caste or religion is against the Constitution, he added, urging the judiciary to take suo motu notice. The directive referred to by Yadav has already been withdrawn, and the joint director concerned of the department who issued it has been suspended with immediate effect from Monday. Meanwhile, Yadav claimed the BJP has no real achievements to show the public, and it instead resorts to false cases and arrests. He alleged that the BJP was attempting to appropriate the SP's legacy by putting up its own signboards at the entrance of the Janeshwar Mishra Park -- a public space developed under the previous SP government -- and said the current administration had allowed the park to fall into neglect. On the recent political developments, Yadav reiterated his support for the PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) alliance, stating that attempts to suppress it would only strengthen its resolve. He also accused the BJP of trying to divert attention from real issues such as inflation, unemployment, corruption, and flood devastation. Yadav alleged that instead of providing relief, the government was distributing stale food to flood victims in Prayagraj, while many areas lacked clean water, toilets, and medical facilities. Rs 20,000 crore has been spent, but homes remain submerged, he said, pointing to similar situations in Varanasi and Gorakhpur, both cities that received heavy Smart City funding. He accused the BJP leaders of illegally grabbing land in cities like Lucknow, Ayodhya, and Varanasi, including wetlands and ponds, and challenged the media to examine land registry records to expose the extent of the encroachments. Yadav also raised concerns about the alleged tampering with voter rolls under the pretext of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) campaign in poll-bound Bihar. He said the Samajwadi Party had submitted affidavits to the Election Commission about 18,000 missing voters who had voted in 2019 but found their names deleted in 2022. Despite this, he said, no explanation or action had been taken by the commission. Calling the BJP's claims about foreign investments and economic growth hollow, Yadav said the ruling party only pays lip service to swadeshi values while embracing foreign interests in practice. They don't even understand what the economy is, he said, criticising the state and central governments for failing to address the growing economic distress in the country.
Youth arrested for impersonating Railway Police Officer (RPF) SI, intimidating locals in Varanasi
In Varanasi, the Sigra police apprehended Amrit Ranjan, a Bihar resident, for impersonating an RPF SI. Ranjan was found in Nehru Market, dressed in police-like attire and carrying a fake pistol, allegedly intimidating locals.
Flood situation along the Ganga river continues, school in Varanasi shut for two days
Flooding persists in Ganga's northern regions, Varanasi, and Patna, leading to evacuations. The Ganga's floodwaters are shifting eastward towards Kahalgaon in Bhagalpur. Water levels in Buxar, Patna, and Hathidah are above danger levels. Varanasi schools are closed due to flooding. Uttar Pradesh ministers are inspecting affected areas. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has deployed a team to oversee relief operations.
Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, Lakhimpur Kheri, Agra, Auraiya, Chitrakoot, Ballia, Banda, Ghazipur, Mirzapur, Varanasi, Chandauli, Jalaun, Hamirpur, Etawah, and Fatehpur are among other affected districts.
Air India Express flight from Varanasi diverted to Bengaluru due to bad weather in Hyderabad
Corpses in queue at Kashi ghats as swollen Ganga overflows onto streets
Huge influx of devotees on last Shrawan Mon amid flood alert
Youths caught faking bone in veg biryani to skip bill
Womans body found at library construction site
Flesh trade racket in spa centres busted; 14 detained
Minister meets flood victims in Varanasi, assures full govt support
IIT-BHUs mobile app earns global recognition for tech innovation
Major rivers flowing above danger mark in UP as incessant rains claim a dozen lives
LUCKNOW: At least five rivers in Uttar Pradesh are flowing above the danger mark and many others are in spate owing to the incessant heavy rains during the last 50 hours, which have claimed over a dozen lives so far. Continuous rainfall and overflowing rivers have triggered a major flood crisis affecting at least 20 districts, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, Mirzapur, Jhansi, Agra, Kanpur Dehat, and Kanpur Nagar. Rising water levels in the Ganga, Yamuna, and Chambal rivers have inundated hundreds of homes and cut off villages. Relief and rescue teams from the SDRF, NDRF, and PAC have been pressed into service in the worst-hit areas. The monsoon remains active in both eastern and western parts of UP due to a strong monsoon trough. Heavy rainfall has been reported in Lucknow prompting the District Magistrate to declare all schools from Classes 1 to 12 closed on Monday. Similar orders were issued in Sultanpur, where government and private schools up to Class 8 were shut. Eastern Uttar Pradesh recorded 18.4 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours, nearly 146% above the normal level of 7.5 mm. Western UP saw 8.2 mm of rainfall compared to an expected 7.2 mm, 14% above normal. The IMD has issued warnings of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall for over 60 districts. The Met department issued a red alert for very heavy rainfall in Siddharthnagar, Gonda, Balrampur, Shravasti, Bahraich, Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Mathura, Hathras, Agra, Bareilly, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Sambhal, and Badaun. Alerts for heavy rain have also been issued in 40+ additional districts, including Lucknow, Kanpur, Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Ayodhya, Moradabad, and Etawah. Lightning warnings are in effect for nearly the entire state. The flood situation is grim across the state with the Team 11, constituted by UP CM Yogi Adityanath, comprising ministers, on ground zero to oversee the rescue and relief. With the CM personally monitoring the situation, the flood relief and rescue operations intensified across the state. Varanasi, Prayagraj and Kanpur are among the worst-affected divisions. In Varanasi, families have been waiting for hours for their turn to perform the last rites of their near and dear ones at the ghats as rising waters of the swollen Ganga spilled on to the streets on Monday leaving the Manikarnika and Harishchandra ghat cremation grounds completely inundated. While pyres were being laid at the upper platform at Manikarnika Ghat, cremations took place in the streets near Harishchandra ghat. With the majority of the 84 ghats along the Ganga submerged, flood waters had been flowing on roads especially in upstream areas. The fury of the Ganga is not only gripping Kashi but also affecting the lives of thousands in neighbouring Ballia district as well. The fields with ready paddy crops are completely marooned in Ghazipur and Chandauli districts. In Prayagraj, with water levels of Ganga and Yamuna having breached the danger mark by around 50 centimetres at Naini, Phaphamau and Chhatnag, more than 107 wards of the district stood flooded forcing more and more residents to take refuge at makeshift flood relief camps. Over 1747 families, comprising 7500 people, have already moved to 18 relief camps, which are getting crowded by the day. The administration has deployed over 168 boats and one motorboat to rescue and assist flood victims. While the Ganga breached the danger mark in Ballia and Ghazipur, the Yamuna is above the danger mark in several areas, including Auraiya, Jalaun, Hamirpur, and Banda. The Betwa River is also overflowing in Hamirpur. According to Relief Commissioner Bhanu Chandra Goswami, 40 tehsils and 694 villages in 17 districts were in the grip of floods impacting over 1.16 lakh peopleall of whom have received assistance and moved to relief camps. Over 25,000 people and 4,682 cattle have been relocated. However, 11,386 hectares of land lie flooded. Relief is being delivered via 738 active boats, with 4,867 kept on standby. So far, 9,467 food packets and 1.18 lakh lunch packets have been distributed, while 39 langars (community kitchens) continue to serve fresh meals to those hit by rains and flood fury, added Goswami. With senior officials holding ground in sensitive and hypersensitive districts, 14 NDRF teams, 15 SDRF teams, and 48 PAC teams have been deployed across 57 districts to aid affected populations. Goswami said that a total of 924 flood shelters were housing 18,772 displaced individuals, all being attended to by 778 medical teams. Additionally, 1,193 flood posts were monitoring the situation, and 25,586 people were relocated to safer areas. The most-affected districts include Kanpur Nagar, Lakhimpur Kheri, Agra, Auraiya, Chitrakoot, Ballia, Banda, Ghazipur, Mirzapur, Prayagraj, Varanasi, Chandauli, Jalaun, Kanpur Dehat, Hamirpur, Etawah, and Fatehpur. Relief operations are underway at a rapid pace, with NDRF, SDRF, and PAC teams conducting continuous patrolling in affected areas.
IIT (BHU) wins Global Transport Innovation Award for CommuteQ project
IIT (BHU) Varanasi's CommuteQ app, designed to promote eco-friendly urban transport, has won the Urban Transport Challenge 2025. The app uses digital tools and behavioral science to encourage walking, cycling, and public transport use. CommuteQ will receive funding to launch a pilot program in Bengaluru, with plans for expansion to other Indian cities and availability on app stores soon.
Several Areas In Varanasi Flooded As Ganga Overflows Amid Heavy Rain In UP
The chief minister has deployed an 11-member ministerial team to oversee relief operations across 12 affected districts, warning that any negligence will not be tolerated and stressing the need for sensitivity, speed and transparency.
Postgraduate orthopaedic instructional course concludes at IMS BHU
A postgraduate orthopaedic course concluded at IMS BHU Varanasi. The Orthopaedics Department organised it with associations. The course provided clinical exposure to postgraduate students and resident doctors. Experts led discussions on clinical cases. Sessions covered radiology, specimens, and surgical instrumentation. The course included viva preparation, radiological reviews, and thesis guidance. The initiative aimed to strengthen clinical skills for orthopaedic professionals.
Chaos in Varanasi as city gets flooded after heavy rains
Heavy rainfall in Uttar Pradesh has led to flooding in Varanasi, with the Ganga River`s water level rising alarmingly. Boat services have been suspended, roads are waterlogged, and relief operations are underway. CM Yogi Adityanath has deployed ministers to affected districts and urged strict monitoring and swift aid distribution.
Due to persistent heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers, schools in Lucknow are closed, and several areas in Uttar Pradesh, including Ayodhya and Varanasi, are flooded. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has deployed a ministerial team to oversee relief operations in affected districts, ensuring timely aid and monitoring. The IMD forecasts continued heavy rainfall in the region.
Due to severe weather and continuous rainfall, Lucknow schools are closed on Monday. Varanasi faces inundation from the rising Ganga, suspending boat operations and disrupting traffic. CM Yogi Adityanath directs urgent relief efforts across flood-hit Uttar Pradesh, deploying ministerial teams and emphasizing accountability. Prayagraj is also severely affected by waterlogging.
Several areas of Varanasi flooded as Ganga overflows
Varanasi is grappling with severe flooding due to incessant heavy rainfall and the rising Ganga River, prompting a ban on boats. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has deployed a ministerial team to oversee relief operations in affected districts, ensuring timely aid and monitoring. Prayagraj is also facing a similar flood situation due to heavy rainfall and river overflow.
1st-ever green hydrogen ferry all set for Varanasi voyage
KOCHI: The future fuel is here! The first-ever green hydrogen ferry in the country, built by the Cochin Shipyard Ltd, has received the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) approval, paving the way for the deployment of the 50-passenger capacity vessel that boasts of zero pollution, in Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. It has completed the six-month trial runs in Varanasi. The news is significant as the Kochi Water Metro, which currently uses electric-hybrid passenger ferries manufactured by the CSL, has ambitious plans to shift to the zero-emission green hydrogen fuel in future. The shift to green hydrogen vessels is now under active consideration and discussions are progressing with the Cochin Shipyard. While we decided against hydrogen ferries initially due to their huge operating cost and difficulty in sourcing, discussions have now been revived, with ANERT (Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology) extending a subsidy scheme as well, said a source with Kochi Metro Rail Ltd. When the green hydrogen proposal was first made two years ago, the cost of the future fuel, considered a potential replacement for fossil-based ones, was `960/kg. Industry sources said this has now more than halved. Reliance has commissioned a pilot hydrogen refuelling station (HRS) in Jamnagar. The cost of hydrogen comes to Rs 360/kg, a source said. Another positive development is the availability of hydrogen fuel in Kochi, as a green hydrogen plant and fuelling station, the first in south India, is coming up near Kochi airport at Nedumbassery. It is jointly developed by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL). While BPCL is entrusted with the building and operation of the 1,000-kW plant, CIAL contributes land, water and green energy resources. The plant will have a capacity to produce 80 kg of green hydrogen daily. Water, heat by-products With the indigenous vessel receiving IRS clearance, it is set to start operations in the Kashi-Prayagraj section. The ferry, utilising a hydrogen fuel cell powered battery system, runs on Low-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Technology (LT-PEM). By implementing the technology, the only by-products will be water and heat. The vessel can operate at a speed of 6.5 knots. Its operation is silent and, since there are no moving parts, maintenance requirement is low. The use of hydrogen as a fuel source eliminates greenhouse gas emissions, making the vessel a model for green and sustainable maritime transportation, a CSL official said. The vessel has five hydrogen cylinders carrying 40 kg of hydrogen, supporting eight hours of operation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had flagged it off on February 28, 2024. The hydrogen boat has the same design as that of the water metro ferries. We lowered the battery capacity and installed a hydrogen fuel cell to generate electricity, the official added. CSL is also constructing two Sea Shuttle Feeder Container Vessels running on green hydrogen. In zero emission mode, each vessel is expected to achieve around 25,000 tons of CO2 reduction per year. 50-passenger capacity The 50-passenger capacity vessel is set to start operations in the Kashi-Prayagraj section Utilising a hydrogen fuel cell powered battery system, it runs on Low-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Technology (LT-PEM) The vessel has five hydrogen cylinders carrying 40 kg of hydrogen, supporting eight hours of operation
Ganga Crosses Danger Mark In Varanasi; 84 Ghats Submerged, Over 6,500 Displaced Amid Heavy Rain
Continuous heavy rainfall in Varanasi has led to severe flooding, with the Ganga River nearing the danger mark and overflowing into homes.
Insider track | Go easy on Jaishankar
When a fiery MP turns gentle, you know somethings up. Rajya Sabha often hums with intense debates, but occasionally, levity sneaks in and so it did when Jaya Bachchan was playfully warned by her family (read: Big B and kin) to go soft on Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar. Dont grill him too much, she said with a twinkle, bringing chuckles across the Parliament premises. Someone nearby quipped, But who can stop you, Jaya Ji, from asking tough questions? Quick as ever, Jaishankar responded with characteristic wit: Please do ask. I actually enjoy answering them. Its an important and fascinating part of my job. BJPs cloak-and-dagger routine No names, please. We still want a shot! Even seasoned BJP veterans are scratching their heads over one mystery: Whos going to be the next party president? And oh, whos the next Vice President of India? Both questions are wrapped in a fog of secrecy thicker than Delhis winter smog. This time, even the inner circle doesnt know, a senior leader confided. The delay is officially due to organisational polls, but insiders whisper its more about keeping media speculationand political ambitionsin check. In hushed tones, party elders joke: Jiska naam chhapa, uska kaam khatam (If your name gets published, your chances vanish). One Union Minister reportedly pleaded with a reporter, Aaiye, chai pijiye, baat kariye but promiseno headlines with my name. If you write, mera toh khatia kharaab ho jaayega! (Come, lets chat over tea, but if you name me as a contender, Im finished). Welcome to the new rule in Lutyens Delhi: Speak softly, carry no ambitionand avoid journalists like the plague. Plugs out to lock in security The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is taking no chances in the digital age. Starting August 1, all desktop USB ports for mass storage devices across its officesincluding PSUs and statutory bodiesare now officially blocked. Worried about rogue pen drives? So is the ministry. The circular reads: Use NICNET or NIC controller-based internet access. No Wi-Fi cowboys allowed! Well, not in those exact words, but you get the point. Government employees now face a new workplace motto: No USB, no problem unless you forget your NIC password. Har Har Mahadev season in full swing Kanwars, Jyotirlingas, and election vibes? Its the holy month of Sawan, and BJP leadersespecially from Bihar and Uttar Pradeshare taking the spiritual route for an audience with Lord Shiva. Kanwars slung over their shoulders, chants of Har Har Mahadev! echoing, and temple visits to Varanasi, Deoghar, Somnath, and Ujjainthis is faith and, perhaps, a touch of electoral foresight rolled into one. Actor-politician Manoj Tiwari, BJP MP from Northeast Delhi, recently completed the Kanwar Yatra from Bihar to Jharkhand, joining thousands in song and devotion. Jai Shri Ram may be the past chant; now its all about Mahadev. A cheeky non-BJP MP commented, In Bihar, its Har Har Mahadev. Wait till Bengal elections then well hear Jai Maa Kali. Faith or focus group tested slogan? The timing has eyebrows raising in both temple queues and polling booths. Comfort ticketing for VVIPs Indian Railways is going digitalwith a twist. A new e-ticketing portal is being rolled out specifically for current and former Members of Parliamentno more long queues or paperwork. The elite can now book and cancel train tickets from the comfort of their homesor chambers. A senior railway official called it convenience-driven and inclusive. Critics might call it belated. Either way, its a step towards catching up with the digital age. Next up: We dont yet know! UP proposes, Centre disposes Well, it seems all may not be perfectly synced between Lucknow and Delhiat least when it comes to top bureaucratic appointments. Word has it that UP CM Yogi Adityanath was keen on giving his Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh (IAS, 1988 batch) a one-year extension beyond his July 31 retirement. The proposal was duly sent to the Centre (since DoPT calls the shots for IAS extensions), but it didnt quite make the cut. With no green light from Delhi, CM Yogi had to shift to Plan B, settling on SP Goyal (IAS, 1989 batch) instead. Dj vu? Just a bitthis feels eerily similar to the episode in May when the state sought an extension for DGP Prashant Kumar (IPS, 1990 batch). That, too, was politely declined by the MHA. The signals? Lets just say... not exactly in tune!
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