U’khand: 100 people have a narrow escape as Ganga level rises

More than a 100 people who were attending a religious discourse had a narrow escape when the water level rose suddenly in the Ganga River in the temple town of Rishikesh.

According to the police, the water level increased after Tehri Dam released water, a routine exercise that is done after informing officials concerned. CD Anthwal, circle officer Rishikesh told HT that the people attending the religious discourse were rescued with the help personnel of the Jal Police (water police).

According to sources, disciples of Gopal Mani had organised a religious discourse at Triveni Ghat island. His disciples reached the spot after crossing a canal like stream in the main Ganga river that flows a few metres away. Police said the organisers were not informed whether water was being released from the Tehri Dam.

“It seems there was lack of communication. Police received information from a few of those attending the religious discourse. Teams were immediately rushed to the spot with life jackets. The operation was completed in some time,” the circle officer told HT over phone.

He said an accident could have occurred. Meanwhile the Tehri Dam authorities said that they had informed Tehri district administration but seems the information was not shared further.

Tehri Dam, which is some 80 km from Rishikesh releases water at intervals but as a precautionary measure, the people concerned at different spots are informed in advance.