Varanasi, Jul 11 (IANS): Heavy rains have led the Ganga to rise by about seven metres here while one of its tributaries has flooded some areas in Varanasi district in Uttar Pradesh, officials said on Monday.

The low lying areas of Alaipur, Chaukaghat, Nakkhighat and Sarainya have been flooded by the Varuna river, which originates near Bhadohi and joins the Ganga in Varanasi, the officials said.

People in these areas have fled to safer places.

The Ganga had submerged some temples along the ghats here but was still flowing three metres below the danger mark.

The administration has taken flood prevention measures and urged people living near the banks of the Ganga to move to safer places.

The Manikarnika Ghat, used for cremations, is on the verge of being swallowed up by the Ganga, a resident told IANS.

Due to inundation on the Dashwasmedh Ghat, temporary arrangements have been made on the roof top of the Ganga Seva Nidhi office for Ganga Aarti, a daily routine.

The administration has banned the plying of small boats and steamers on the Ganga.