Varanasi:The water level of the Ganga river has been rising steadily in Varanasi, prompting the administration to suspend boat operations as a precautionary measure, officials said on Thursday. ACP Atul Anjan Tripathi said the water level of the river stood at 68.35 metres on Thursday and was steadily moving towards the danger mark of 71.26 metres.

“Lakhs of devotees are visiting Varanasi during the month of Sawan. Keeping their safety in mind, boat operations have been suspended as a precautionary measure,” Tripathi said.

He said a decision on resuming boat operations would be taken once the water level and the flow of the river return to normal.