Flood Crisis in Prayagraj: Over 50 Neighborhoods Affected, Thousands Seek Shelter Amid Rising Ganga-Yamuna Waters

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: The flood crisis in Prayagraj has deeply impacted the city, with the water levels of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers remaining about one meter above the danger mark–despite receding by half a meter in the last 24 hours. The city faces the brunt of this natural disaster, with around 50 localities suffering from the aftermath of the ongoing floods.

Mass Displacement and Relief Efforts According to state authorities, roughly 2,220 families have been forced to take refuge in about 24 active relief camps across urban Prayagraj. With resources stretched thin, these camps attempt to provide shelter, but complainants say that pets and farm animals have often been left behind or stranded on rooftops.

One of the main relief centers at YMCA is hosting 1,050 people, where the district administration claims to have made every effort to ensure comfort. However, on-ground reality tells a different story, with problems such as inadequate bathing spaces, poor drainage from bathing areas, and insufficient toilets—just one or two catering for hundreds. Many families report that the sleeping arrangements are congested and often lack fans for ventilation.

Impact on Education and Daily Life All schools from primary to intermediate levels have been closed under district orders, further emphasizing the scale of disruption. While the administration estimates around 10,000 people are directly affected, locals claim the true number is between 2 and 2.5 million, spanning both urban and rural regions.

Voices from the Camps Flood-affected residents expressed ongoing concerns about food quality and quantity, with some reporting that meals are not enough to satisfy large families and are supplied sporadically or late. Water from tankers is often considered unfit for drinking, forcing people to rely on relatives, while many have left household belongings behind in inundated homes.

Some residents recall better facilities during previous flood events, particularly the timely availability of food and cleaner conditions. Others stated that arrangements in relief camps have improved after several days, with cleaner toilets and somewhat better management, though overall comfort remains lacking due to crowding and heat.

Volunteer and Organizational Support Non-governmental organizations and corporate volunteers, such as the team from Prayagraj Power Junction (PPJCL), have distributed over 1,000 packets containing basic essentials like water, biscuits, bread, and cake, along with sanitary items like hand sanitizers, to help refugees maintain hygiene.

Administration Under Pressure Despite the efforts of administrative authorities, NGOs, and volunteers, the sheer scale of the crisis—described as “a drop in the ocean”—means many still struggle. High-ranking officials have been appointed as nodal and zonal officers, yet survivors say more must be done. The lingering threat of infectious diseases looms as soon as people return to water-logged and unhygienic neighborhoods.

Looking Forward As relief efforts continue, much remains to be addressed in both immediate aid and long-term rehabilitation. The people of Prayagraj, enduring adversity with patience and hope, look towards the administration and society for sustainable solutions and support.