Varanasi Gears Up for Festivals with Massive Ganga Ghats Cleanup

Cleaning efforts at Varanasi's Ganga ghats are in full swing to prepare for upcoming festivals including Navratri, Dussehra, and Diwali. Local citizens and NGOs are participating. In tandem, the 'Clean Ganga' mission approved new projects worth Rs 73 crore, including a Smart Laboratory for Clean Rivers in Varanasi.

In anticipation of increased footfall during the upcoming festivals of Navratri and Dussehra, the cleaning of Ganga ghats in Varanasi is in full swing. 'We are cleaning the ghats for the festivals of Chatth, Navratri, and Diwali. The cleaning work starts at 8 am and continues till 6 pm,' said Adarsh Yadav, a member of the ghat cleanliness team.

The Ganga River's water level has receded, leaving behind a substantial layer of mud on the ghats. This mud removal is crucial for festivals like Deepawali, Dussehra, and Dev Deepawali. NGOs and local citizens have joined forces to ensure the ghats are ready for the influx of visitors expected during the festive season.

In a parallel effort, the national 'Clean Ganga' mission has greenlit five projects worth Rs 73 crore for Uttar Pradesh as of September 1. Among these projects is the establishment of a Smart Laboratory for Clean Rivers (SLCR) in Varanasi. This initiative aims to utilize global expertise and sustainable practices to enhance the Ganga's ecosystem and rejuvenate smaller rivers across India.

(With inputs from agencies.)