Lucknow: The swollen Gomti continued to affect several parts of the city, with floodwater disrupting cremation services, cutting off access to the riverfront, affecting traffic, and inundating religious and sports facilities.




The impact has now spread beyond low-lying areas, with water reaching locations along the river in and around Gomti Nagar Extension , Hazratganj and other parts of the city.



Last rites disrupted at Gulala Ghat and Bhaisakund




At Gulala Ghat, water has entered the cremation area and the approach road has remained submerged for several days, making it difficult for families to bring bodies for last rites. Access to Baikunth Dham has also been affected as floodwater reached low-lying areas near the river.




LMC chief engineer (RR) Manoj Prabhat said cremations at Gulala Ghat had been suspended after water entered the facility. At Bhaisakund Dham , however, last rites are continuing on a platform that remains above the floodwater level. The electric crematorium there is also operational.



Riverfront access cut off




The swollen river has reached the steps of Gomti Riverfront , where the water level was earlier around two feet below the steps. With the water continuing to rise, all access routes to the riverfront have been closed.



Ekana-Palassio route affected




Traffic movement slowed on the Ekana Stadium-Palassio route on Wednesday evening after floodwater inundated parts of the stretch. Traffic police were deployed to regulate vehicular movement and advised commuters to drive cautiously and avoid stopping on the affected road.



Khatu Shyam temple suspends darshan




In Nishatganj, floodwater entered the premises of Khatu Shyam temple, forcing the suspension of darshan. The temple administration placed a photograph of Shyam Baba near the entrance for devotees. Several visitors who had travelled to the temple had to return without offering prayers.



Chandrika Devi temple closed




In Bakshi Ka Talab, floodwater reached Maa Chandrika Devi Temple , with devotees having to wade through waist-deep water to access the shrine. The temple was closed for three days from Tuesday. Priests, however, continued daily shringar, puja and aarti inside the temple. A decision on Amavasya and Sharadiya Navratri programmes will be taken later.



Cricket stadium flooded




Floodwater also entered SAGE Cricket Stadium, inundating the playing field and forcing the temporary closure of the cricket academy. Practice sessions have been suspended and no matches will be held for the next few days. Three pumping sets have been installed to drain out the water, while officials assess the extent of damage to the playing surface.