Severe Flooding in Prayagraj: Thousands Forced to Relocate as Ganga River Overflows After 12 Years

Prayagraj is facing one of its worst floods in over a decade, as heavy rainfall has led to the Ganga River overflowing into residential neighborhoods. Dramatic visuals show houses with water up to the ground floor, with windows and doors unable to hold back the forceful current. Residents are now living on the upper floors, as the lower levels are completely submerged.

The flooding is believed to be the worst since 2013. “After nearly 12 years, the water has entered the ground floor with such force that all the doors and windows could not hold it back,” explained one local resident. As a result, people have shifted their daily lives to rooftops and upper floors, cooking and sleeping in cramped spaces to escape the water below. Streets once bustling with cars and pedestrians are now navigated only by boats.

The Sangam area is particularly affected, with most homes experiencing similar calamities. Traditional livelihoods have been lost, as businesses relying on bathing ghats have shut down and cremation grounds are underwater. Many families can no longer perform last rites at the main ghats, as access to these areas has been cut off by flooding.

Locals recount that continuous rainfall, including heavy inflows from neighboring Madhya Pradesh, has caused both the Ganga and Yamuna rivers to overflow. Water has entered entire colonies, forcing some houses to collapse and compelling families to shift entirely to upper floors or rooftops.

With food, water, and household goods stranded or ruined on lower floors, residents cook and live exclusively on higher ground. “Since the water came two days ago, everything downstairs is underwater and useless. We’ve had to bring all our belongings upstairs,” said one resident.

The government has responded by activating a crisis management protocol. The Chief Minister recently announced the formation of “Team-11” to coordinate relief efforts, and a video conference with officials is scheduled to address the crisis. The district administration reports that about 18 relief camps have been set up, now sheltering 5,000–6,000 people forced from their homes. Additionally, 84 police posts, including those staffed by female officers, have been established to ensure the safety and support of evacuees.

Officials assure residents that relief and rescue operations are being conducted with full commitment, and efforts are ongoing to keep everyone safe and provide essential aid during this critical time.

The situation remains challenging across Prayagraj, with thousands of families hoping for water levels to recede and life to return to normal.

For more updates and stories from affected regions, stay tuned.