- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Tue, 16 Sep 2025 12:04 PM (IST)
- Source:Jagran News Network
The rising water level of the Yamuna has left a lasting impact on residents living along its banks, disrupting both livelihoods and traditions. While many families from the Yamuna Bazar area were displaced and forced to live in temporary camps during the floods, efforts are now underway to restore normalcy.
One of the major casualties has been the suspension of the regular Yamuna Aarti at Vasudev Ghat, which has not taken place for nearly a month. Held every Tuesday and Sunday evening, the ritual usually attracts 500-700 devotees on Tuesdays and around 2,000 on Sundays.
According to Delhi Development Authority (DDA) officials, the ghat remains buried under three to four feet of silt, making it unfit for gatherings. “Clearing the silt is proving difficult as feet sink into it, but the work is being expedited. A large part of the main gate has already been cleared, and the ghat will soon be restored to its original state,” an official said.
The parking area near the ghat has been cleaned, but the main platform remains unusable. Bulldozers are being used selectively to avoid damaging the adjoining park. Work on repairing the broken wall at Nigambodh Ghat has yet to begin. Officials estimate it may take another 10–15 days before Vasudev Ghat is fully ready to host devotees again.
Meanwhile, priests and organisers are urging for quicker action.
“It will take time to restore the ghat, but it should be made suitable for the Aarti soon, as devotees are returning disappointed,” said Gopal Jha, priest.
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“The park should be cleaned quickly so that we can perform the Aarti for Mother Yamuna. It has already been a month since the last Aarti,” added Suman Kumar Gupta, social worker and organiser.
Until restoration is complete, devotees and tourists will have to wait to witness the much-loved Aarti on the Yamuna’s banks.