Yogi Adityanath surveys flood‑hit Varanasi, hands out relief kits and promises swift compensation

On Saturday, Uttar Pradesh’s chief minister Yogi Adityanath flew over the water‑logged streets of Varanasi, taking a close‑up look at the damage left by the relentless rains. After the aerial survey, he stepped onto the ground at a relief camp set up in Vidya Vihar Inter College, Salarpur, where dozens of families were huddled together, waiting for aid.

With a calm but firm voice, the CM asked the victims about their immediate needs, handed out kits containing milk, fruits, grains, cooking oil, biscuits, towels and other essentials, and reassured them that the state government stands firmly with them. He even joined the crowd in chanting “Har Har Mahadev,” a moment that seemed to lift spirits amid the gloom.

Speaking to the gathered crowd, Adityanath reflected on last year’s relief efforts at the same school and highlighted how the backflow of the Varuna River often turns low‑lying neighborhoods into temporary lakes. He noted that, while 40‑45 districts were severely hit during the previous monsoon, his administration has managed to limit severe impact to just 14 districts this time.

“We are moving on a war‑footing,” he said, praising the district officials and party workers for speeding up the distribution of relief materials. He also painted a hopeful picture of Varanasi’s future, mentioning upgrades to the Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the ghats, the railway station, the airport, and the new ring road – all part of a “new look” for the holy city.

The chief minister announced a comprehensive relief package: each affected family will receive a cash grant of ₹4 lakh within 24 hours, and farmers whose crops were submerged will also be compensated. Those whose homes collapsed, or who suffered injuries like snake bites, will be eligible for the same amount. He added that the Prime Minister’s scheme will fund the distribution of 26 essential items per child in disaster camps.

Beyond the immediate aid, Adityanath ordered that once waters recede, teams will sweep the area with sanitizers to curb any outbreak of water‑borne diseases. He also confirmed that 567 families across 16 wards have been identified, with 48 boats already on standby to ferry people to safety. Ayushman cards for medical treatment are being handed out, and the Prime Minister’s/Chief Minister’s Housing Scheme will cater to the homeless.

During the visit, a wreath was laid at the statue of freedom fighter Jaggu Ram Maurya, a symbolic gesture of respect. The CM spent time with children at the camp, checking on their studies and offering words of encouragement.

Several senior officials accompanied the chief minister, including Labour and Employment Minister Anil Rajbhar, Water Power Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, and others from the state’s health, agriculture and development departments. Their presence underscored the coordinated effort to get Varanasi back on its feet.

In a closing note, Adityanath reminded everyone that the support is not just from the state but also from the central government, calling it “the work of a capable MP who became Prime Minister.” He promised that the administration will keep a close watch on the situation and continue to stand with the people of Varanasi through the recovery phase.