Ganga canal closure hits pilgrims at Haridwar ghats

The Upper Ganga Canal from Haridwar to Kanpur has been shut for 20 days for annual desilting and repairs ahead of Kumbh Mela. Water levels at Har Ki Pauri and other ghats have dropped sharply, leaving thousands of pilgrims unable to take holy dips. Full water flow is expected to resume by Dhanteras, officials said.