Ganges Canal closure disrupts pilgrims at Haridwar's sacred ghats

The Ganges Canal closure began on the evening of Dussehra in Haridwar, initiating an 18-day shutdown of one of North India's most significant waterways. The suspension will remain in effect until the stroke of midnight on November 7, when the canal is scheduled to reopen.

Authorities have deployed the closure period for essential maintenance and upkeep work on the canal infrastructure. Concurrently, construction activities linked to the Kumbh Mela 2027 preparations will also be undertaken during this window.

The temporary halt in water flow has resulted in significantly depleted water levels across multiple bathing ghats in Haridwar, including the prominent Har ki Pauri. The reduced flow has created considerable disappointment among pilgrims who gathered during the festival season to perform ritual ablutions in the sacred river.

The 18-day maintenance window is part of the canal's regular operational schedule. Authorities have assured stakeholders that the planned infrastructure work will enhance the facility's capacity and safety ahead of the upcoming Kumbh gathering, one of the world's largest religious congregations.

Devotees affected by the reduced water availability have expressed concerns about performing their religious observances during this period, though officials maintain the temporary inconvenience is necessary for long-term maintenance and event preparation.