VARANASI, India — Heavy overnight rainfall triggered severe waterlogging across the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus in Varanasi on Monday, forcing the cancellation of classes and leaving dozens of vehicles stranded in rising floodwater, according to university officials and local authorities.
The waterlogging began after intense rainfall lashed the city late Sunday night, overwhelming the campus drainage system. By Monday morning, several areas within the university grounds were submerged under knee-to-waist-deep water, disrupting normal academic activities.
BHU authorities announced the suspension of all classes and examinations until further notice, citing safety concerns. “Due to the severe waterlogging situation on campus, all academic activities including classes and practical sessions are canceled until the water recedes,” a university spokesperson said in an official statement.
Videos circulating on social media showed cars and two-wheelers stuck in stagnant water, with students wading through flooded pathways. Some students reported that hostel exits were blocked, making movement difficult.
Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) officials attributed the flooding to inadequate drainage infrastructure and said desilting of drains had been delayed due to ongoing construction work. “We are deploying pumps to drain out the water and have asked the Public Works Department to expedite desilting,” said a VMC official.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an orange alert for Varanasi on Sunday, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall in the region. The city received over 120 mm of rainfall in the 24-hour period ending Monday morning, IMD data showed.
This is not the first time the BHU campus has faced such flooding. In previous years, students and faculty have raised concerns over poor drainage and encroachments affecting water flow during monsoon season.
Analysis: The recurring nature of waterlogging at BHU highlights long-standing urban planning and infrastructure challenges in Varanasi, particularly during the monsoon season. While immediate measures like pump deployment offer short-term relief, experts suggest that structural improvements to the drainage network are necessary to prevent future disruptions.
Sources:
– India Today: https://www.indiatoday.in/india/video/severe-waterlogging-hits-bhu-campus-in-varanasi-vehicles-stuck-classes-canceled-as-water-rises-ytvd-2979835-2026-08-25
Corrections
If you believe this article contains an error, contact Herald Express with the source URL and supporting evidence.
Story synopsis gathered from: India Today – India — source
