Getting salvation in Mokshadayini Kashi is no longer easy. Because, the floods in the Ganges have submerged most of the crematorium platform of the Mahashmanashan Manikarnika Ghat. Actually, the water level of the Ganges in Varanasi has increased considerably. Due to this, most of the crematorium platforms of Manikarnika Ghat have been submerged. Now the funeral of the dead bodies has to be performed on the roof of the ghat. At the same time, small temples built around have also been submerged.
The latest situation is such that the steps of 85 ghats have been submerged in the flood waters. The way to reach these ghats is also broken. According to the local people, the contact of the ghat has now become difficult. There is a problem in taking the dead body to the ghat.
Shyam Singh, who came from Ghazipur, says that the water level of the Ganges is continuously increasing, in such a situation it is our compulsion to cremate on the roof. If the water level increases further then it will also not be possible. Now there is no such facility left.
At the same time, Vishal Tripathi, who came from Chandauli, says that earlier the barshini boats used to run, but now the motor boat has been closed due to floods. The place is less and the crowd is more, so bodies have to be burnt on the roofs above. In the midst of all this, the demand for new ghats is arising.
Shailendra Singh, who came from Kaimur in Bihar, said that the lower platforms have drowned due to the flood and only the option of roof is left to burn the dead bodies. This situation is very uncomfortable for us. This situation is very difficult for the family of the deceased.
Regarding the current situation, Domaraja family member Rajesh Chaudhary said that earlier where 40 bodies could be burnt, but now the capacity has been reduced to 20 bodies. Because, three platforms have been submerged in water. The body is coming less. Some problems are being caused by the ongoing construction and some are due to floods.
According to Kailash Yadav, who sells wood for the crematorium at Manikarnika Ghat, there is not a big difference in wood prices yet, but due to waterlogging, transportation has become difficult and supply from the waterway has also stopped. The trolleys have to bring wood through the narrow streets, which is quite difficult. 400-500 rupees, the mind becomes wood in the flood season 500-600 rupees per mind.
Regarding this odd situation, DM of Varanasi Surendra Kumar said that the district administration is eyeing the Ganges and Varuna river. All preparations have been made to deal with the floods. Orders have been ordered for the deployment of food packets, fodder for animals, NDRF and SDRF. Emergency response will be activated as per the requirement.
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