The Upper Ganga Canal at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar has been closed from midnight on October 20, bringing the water level down and exposing the riverbed along the ghats. The closure is linked to preparations for the Kumbh and the canal’s annual maintenance programme.
The canal is scheduled to remain shut until November 8. During this period, repair work, cleaning and construction activity at the ghats are being carried out before the religious gathering.
Why the canal has been closed
The shutdown combines routine annual maintenance with preparations for the Kumbh. The work includes repairs to the canal, cleaning operations and construction at the ghats around Har Ki Pauri.
With the water removed, the usually submerged stretch beside the ghats is visible. The exposed riverbed creates a markedly different view of one of Haridwar’s best-known riverside locations.
The sight is uncommon because the riverbed is visible only during the annual canal closure. The current visuals therefore show Har Ki Pauri in a condition that visitors do not normally see when the canal is carrying water.
What happens next
The Upper Ganga Canal is expected to remain closed through November 8 while the listed maintenance and construction work continues. The water channel’s reopening will follow the scheduled closure period.
The development is relevant to people following preparations for the Kumbh in Haridwar, as work is taking place directly around the ghats used by visitors and pilgrims. The available information does not specify any change to the reopening date or provide further details about the individual repair works.
Conclusion
The Upper Ganga Canal at Har Ki Pauri is closed from midnight on October 20 until November 8 for Kumbh preparations and annual maintenance, leaving the riverbed exposed while repairs, cleaning and ghat construction are undertaken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When did the Upper Ganga Canal closure begin?
The canal was closed from midnight on October 20.
Q. When is the canal scheduled to reopen?
The closure is scheduled to continue until November 8.
Q. Why has the canal been closed?
It has been closed for Kumbh preparations and annual maintenance.
Q. What work is being carried out during the closure?
The work includes repairs, cleaning and construction at the ghats.
Q. What has become visible at Har Ki Pauri?
The riverbed along the ghats has been exposed because the canal is not carrying its usual water flow.
Q. Is the exposed riverbed visible every year?
The riverbed is described as a sight seen only once a year during the annual closure.
