Upper Ganga Canal shuts for 18 days for maintenance, raising water supply concerns in Delhi-NCR and western UP. Har Ki Pauri sees reduced flow as repairs continue until November 7-8.
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Ganga shock
Planning to visit Haridwar's famous Har Ki Pauri? You could be in for an unexpected sight! Water levels have dropped sharply after authorities shut the Upper Ganga Canal for 18 days. The annual maintenance closure has left stretches of the canal dry, disappointing pilgrims who travelled to witness the sacred waters. Officials say normal water flow is expected to resume around midnight between November 7 and 8, just ahead of Diwali.
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Water warning
Could an 18-day canal shutdown affect your daily water supply? Residents of Delhi-NCR may face shortages as the Upper Ganga Canal remains closed for maintenance. The canal stretches from Haridwar towards Kanpur and plays an important role in water supply and irrigation. Farmers in western Uttar Pradesh could also feel the impact, raising concerns over how communities will manage until water flow resumes.
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Aarti lifeline
Will Har Ki Pauri's famous Ganga Aarti continue despite the canal closure? Yes, but with significantly reduced water flow! Officials from the Uttar Pradesh Irrigation Department say approximately 200 cusecs of water will remain available at the sacred ghat for the evening aarti. While the surrounding canal stretches may appear unusually dry, this arrangement is intended to keep the religious ceremony going.
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Hidden damage
Why would authorities shut down such an important canal for nearly three weeks? Officials say the annual closure is necessary to uncover hidden cracks, damage and other structural problems that cannot be properly inspected while water is flowing. Engineers will clean and repair the canal network, which runs towards Kanpur. The maintenance is intended to prevent bigger problems and keep the system operating smoothly throughout the coming year.
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Kumbh countdown
The canal shutdown isn't just about routine repairs! With Haridwar preparing for the upcoming Ardh Kumbh Mela, authorities are using the 18-day closure to accelerate permanent and temporary infrastructure projects. Multiple departments are working to complete improvements before the major religious gathering. The big question now is whether the repairs and preparations will be completed before water is scheduled to return on November 7-8.