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Varanasi's Manikarnika Ghat Gets Modern Upgrade, DM Warns Against Fake News

Varanasi's historic Manikarnika Ghat is undergoing a comprehensive development project to address challenges of space, cleanliness, and public convenience. The project includes constructing new cremation platforms, a tall chimney for ash disposal, and better facilities for rituals. District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar clarified that no temples or cultural artworks are being damaged, despite viral misinformation. The administration warned against AI-generated fake videos and pledged action against those spreading rumors to disturb the ghat's sanctity.

Key Points: Manikarnika Ghat Development: Varanasi DM Cautions on Misinformation

  • New cremation platforms being built
  • Tall chimney for ash disposal
  • Improved facilities for mundan ritual
  • Misinformation via AI videos targeted
  • Cultural structures to be protected
3 min read

'Manikarnika Ghat' development underway; Varanasi DM warns against misinformation on social media

Varanasi DM clarifies no temples harmed in Manikarnika Ghat redevelopment, warns against AI-generated fake videos on social media. New facilities underway.

"Strict action will be taken against those attempting to mislead people and disturb the sanctity of the ghat. - Satyendra Kumar"

Varanasi, Jan 14

Varanasi's historic Manikarnika Ghat is undergoing extensive development work aimed at improving cremation management and public convenience. Amid the ongoing project, the district administration has clarified that no temples or cultural structures are being harmed and has cautioned the public against misinformation being spread through viral photos and AI-generated videos on social media.

Varanasi District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar said strict action will be taken against those attempting to mislead people and disturb the sanctity of the ghat.

'Manikarnika Ghat', famously known as the great cremation ground of Varanasi, witnesses the cremation of lakhs of bodies every year. Due to the large number of cremations, the ghat faces several challenges, including a shortage of space, cleanliness, and maintaining proper arrangements. Keeping these issues in mind, a comprehensive development project is being implemented at the ghat to streamline and improve the overall system.

DM Satyendra Kumar said that under the project, new and well-organised platforms are being constructed for cremations, which will provide greater convenience to devotees and bereaved families.

While speaking to the media, the District Magistrate said that after cremation, the remaining ashes often spread to nearby houses and surrounding areas, causing inconvenience to residents. To provide a permanent solution to this problem, a tall chimney is being constructed at the ghat to ensure proper disposal of ashes. In addition, arrangements are being made to store the wood used in cremations in a systematic manner to prevent disorder and unhygienic conditions. People coming for the mundan (head-shaving) ritual had also been facing several difficulties, and improved facilities are now being developed for them as well.

He further stated that the project has been continuously underway for the past year. Under it, new construction work is being carried out in the kutcha (unpaved) areas of the ghat, while the pucca (permanent) portions are being restored and strengthened. The objective is to preserve the traditional identity of the ghat while developing facilities in line with modern requirements, ensuring that devotees do not face any inconvenience.

Meanwhile, the District Magistrate also clarified the situation regarding certain photos and videos going viral on social media. He said that the images being circulated are related to various artworks created on the ghats and stairways. Some people are spreading misinformation by using AI to create misleading videos related to temples and idols.

He clarified that all artworks and sculptures present at the ghat are fully under the protection of the Department of Culture and will be restored. The temples built at Manikarnika Ghat will remain safe and intact as before.

The District Magistrate also said that those spreading rumours on social media are being identified and kept under constant surveillance. If required, strict action will be taken against such elements in accordance with the law. The administration's clear objective is to ensure that the sanctity of Manikarnika Ghat, its cultural heritage, and the faith of devotees are not harmed under any circumstances.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While development is good, I hope they are extremely careful. This is not just any site, it's a sacred space with centuries of tradition. The promise to protect the temples and artworks is reassuring. 🙏
R
Rohit P
The chimney for ash disposal is a brilliant idea! My relative lives near the ghat and has always complained about ashes settling everywhere. This development shows practical thinking while respecting sentiments.
A
Aman W
Social media is a menace sometimes. People create AI videos for cheap popularity without thinking about the panic it causes. Strict action against rumour-mongers is the need of the hour.
N
Nisha Z
Improving facilities for 'mundan' is a thoughtful touch. Families come from far away for these rituals. If the basic amenities are better, it reduces their stress during a difficult time. Good planning.
D
David E
Visiting Varanasi was a profound experience. The ghats are incredible but the crowding and logistical issues are real. This balanced approach of preserving heritage while adding modern facilities seems sensible.
K
Karthik V
I appreciate the administration's clarity, but they must ensure transparency throughout the project. Share regular updates with photos so people have trust and misinformation finds no space. The intent is good, execution must be flawless.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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