Varanasi, August 16: The water level of the Ganga in Varanasi is rising rapidly, prompting the district administration to suspend all boat operations until further notice.

The river was recorded at 64.70 metres on Sunday and was rising at an estimated rate of around 6 cm per hour. In view of the situation, the Varanasi Police Administration issued an advisory suspending boat services with immediate effect as a precautionary measure.

The order, issued by the Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Dashashwamedh Area, Kashi Zone, said the river's water level and conditions were being continuously monitored. Boat operations will resume only after a separate order is issued once conditions improve.

Boat operators and other concerned persons have been directed to follow instructions issued by the Water Police and strictly adhere to safety measures.

Meanwhile, the NDRF and Water Police are closely monitoring the situation. The administration said passenger safety remains its top priority and appealed to all concerned to comply with the advisory.