VARANASI, May 4 -- The once-lost Matuka river has made a remarkable comeback and is now set to flow again through expansive farmlands before merging into the Varuna river in Varanasi-serving as one of its key tributaries.

The 27.14-kilometre-long river, which originates from Bhadohi district and had disappeared years ago due to encroachments and neglect, is being revived through efforts led by the Varanasi district administration and local gram panchayats.

"Flanked by agricultural fields, the Matuka is a vital source of irrigation in the Sewapuri area (of Varanasi). With the river's revival, farmers have resumed using its water to irrigate their crops. Around 5,000 farmers from 26 villages are expected to benefit by it," said chief deve...