Varanasi’s Manikarnika Ghat is undergoing development to enhance cremation management and public convenience. The district administration assures that no harm is being done to temples or cultural structures amidst the ongoing project. District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar warns against misinformation spread through viral photos and AI-generated videos on social media.
‘Manikarnika Ghat’ in Varanasi, known for its cremations, faces challenges like space shortage and cleanliness due to the high number of bodies cremated annually. A development project is being implemented to address these issues and enhance the overall system. New platforms for cremations are being constructed to offer better facilities to devotees and families.
As part of the project, a tall chimney is being built at the ghat to ensure proper disposal of ashes, preventing inconvenience to residents. The project also includes organized wood storage for cremations and improved facilities for rituals like mundan. Construction work is ongoing in both unpaved and permanent areas of the ghat to preserve its traditional identity while meeting modern needs.
The District Magistrate clarifies that viral photos and videos on social media pertain to artworks on the ghats and stairways, not temples or idols. All sculptures and artworks at the ghat are protected by the Department of Culture and will be maintained. The administration is monitoring and identifying those spreading rumors, with plans for strict action if necessary to safeguard the ghat’s sanctity and cultural heritage.
