Temples were flooded as the Ganges River overflowed in India following relentless heavy rain.

The water level of the river in Varanasi surpassed the danger mark of 71.3 metres on Sunday, August 3, submerging all 84 ghats - the riverside steps used for bathing and religious rituals - and flooding more than 24 neighbourhoods and over 32 villages in the district.

Reports said the flooding has displaced around 6,583 people. Local authorities have set up 20 relief camps to support flood-stricken residents.

Footage shows large sculptures installed at Namo Ghat, symbolising the traditional Namaste greeting, also being inundated.

All schools in Varanasi, across all boards and up to Class 12, will remain closed on Tuesday and Wednesday due to the ongoing flood-like situation in the city.

Uttar Pradesh Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna visited the affected areas in Varanasi on Monday.

He said: 'I have inspected the flood-affected areas. I also spoke to the people. The people expressed contentment that the relief material was received in an adequate amount. It is a natural disaster and everybody should cooperate.'

The India Meteorological Department said isolated heavy downpours are likely to continue across Uttar Pradesh until Wednesday.