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Haridwar Ganga Canal closure impacts pilgrims ahead of Kumbh Mela
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News18•21-10-2026, 10:15
Haridwar Ganga Canal closure impacts pilgrims ahead of Kumbh Mela
- •The Upper Ganga Canal from Haridwar to Kanpur has been closed for a 20-day annual shutdown for routine desilting and structural repairs.
- •The temporary closure is part of fast-tracked infrastructure preparations ahead of the upcoming Kumbh Mela.
- •Low water levels at prominent ghats like Har Ki Pauri have left thousands of visiting pilgrims unable to take traditional holy dips.
- •Uttar Pradesh Irrigation Department assured that normal water discharge will be fully restored at the end of the maintenance drive.
- •Despite disappointments, devotees have adjusted their rituals by using small vessels to bathe and remain spiritually fulfilled.
Key Questions Answered
The Upper Ganga Canal has been shut down for a 20-day annual maintenance period to undergo routine desilting, channel repairs, and fast-tracked infrastructure preparations ahead of the upcoming Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh 2027.
The temporary shutdown has caused a sharp drop in water levels at prominent ghats like Har Ki Pauri, making it difficult for pilgrims to take traditional holy dips and prompting them to use small vessels or sit in shallow water for rituals.
Normal water discharge across the canal network is scheduled to be fully restored at the conclusion of the 20-day maintenance drive, with water supply expected to resume around Dhanteras.
