Varanasi Ghats Get Facelift: Cleanliness Drive Transforms Manikarnika

Varanasi's Municipal Corporation is undertaking a significant campaign to restore order and cleanliness at the sacred Manikarnika Ghat. Following directives from the Mayor and Municipal Commissioner, teams have actively removed wood piles and enforced new rules for shopkeepers, ensuring clear display of names, contact numbers, and wood prices. Storage of wood at the ghat is now limited to three days, a measure designed to prevent fraudulent practices against grieving families.

The corporation's efforts extend to clearing encroachments and debris, notably near the Ramlila Committee, to enhance devotee convenience. A key development is the plan to transform a cleared vacant space into a two-wheeler parking facility, directly addressing traffic congestion issues faced by visitors. This initiative is part of the broader 'Clean Kashi-Beautiful Kashi' campaign.

Furthermore, the Municipal Corporation is phasing out traditional garbage houses, replacing them with modern Portable Compactor Transfer Systems (PCTS). Construction for these systems has begun, with land being secured for their installation. Additionally, illegal encroachments are being cleared at Hadhasarai to create future parking areas, signaling a comprehensive approach to urban management in Varanasi.