Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 14 (ANI): A massive resconstruction drive is ongoing at the historic Manikarnika Ghat, the holiest cremation ground in Varanasi, the city of Baba Vishwanath, Lord Shiva. This drive, related to the proposed corridor construction from Manikarnika Ghat to Scindia Ghat is an effort to transform the narrow lanes and historic ghats of Kashi and has now reached its next phase.

The administration's focus is entirely on rejuvenating the sacred Manikarnika Ghat. Demolition work using heavy machinery has been intensified to develop the Manikarnika pilgrimage site into a grand corridor.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid the foundation stone for the project on July 7, 2023 during his visit to Varanasi. The project is being devloped at a cost of Rs 17.56 crore.

Following the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision is to give this gateway to salvation a new look.

The new Manikarnika Ghat will include VIP seating on the roof. In addition, special attention will be paid to the provision of ramps, viewing areas, seating arrangements, and other basic amenities. A wood plaza will also be constructed at Manikarnika Ghat, where mourners can procure wood for cremation related ceremonies.

The design of the new Manikarnika Ghat has been created keeping the high flood level in mind. Even during floods, the cremation grounds will not be submerged, and mourners will not face any difficulties. During the construction of Manikarnika Ghat, the heritage sites around the ghat will also be renovated.

This includes the restoration of the Chakra Pushkarani Kund, the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, the Tarkeshwar Temple, and the Dattatreya Paduka. CCTV cameras will also be installed throughout the area.

There was some resistance to the bulldozers as rapid demolition work got underway to develop the Manikarnika Mahashmashan pilgrimage site.

The administration's master plan is to streamline and widen the area from Manikarnika Ghat to Scindia Ghat. This includes better facilities for pilgrims, easier access and strengthening connectivity to Scindia Ghat. Some of the local residents of Kashi and priests argue that the ancient character of Kashi lies in its narrow lanes and old structures, which they say is now being changed in the name of modernity.

Varanasi ADM (City) Alok Verma however clarified saying that the people living along the ghat are not opposing the project and that all development work was happening in front of them.

It is worth noting that Manikarnika Ghat, the great cremation ground of Kashi, holds immense religious significance. According to religious beliefs, after death in Kashi, Lord Shiva himself whispers the Taraka Mantra into the ear of the deceased, granting them salvation. This is the only cremation ground in the world that operates 24 hours a day. This is why it is called the Mahashmashan (Great Cremation Ground). ANI)