Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a scheduled visit to Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency, on July 17. During this visit, he will lay the foundation stones for various projects worth approximately Rs 30 billion. In preparation for the visit, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently held a review meeting with senior officials to discuss the progress of development projects. One of the key highlights of the visit will be the laying of the foundation stone for the restoration and redevelopment of Manikarnika Ghat.

The state government spokesperson emphasised the government's dedicated focus on modernising and improving accessibility to the crematorium at Manikarnika Ghat, which is considered an iconic site in the country. The redevelopment work at the ghat will be funded through the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund. In addition to the ghat, the beautification of Manikarnika Kund, Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, and other surrounding areas is also planned. Manikarnika Ghat holds significance for people from Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Purvanchal who come to perform the last rites of their loved ones.

To achieve this, the Yogi government has proposed a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the ghat and the nearby heritage buildings and temples. According to a spokesperson, the buildings from Manikarnika Ghat to Tarakeshwar Temple will be developed in the Nagara architectural style, featuring three stories up to Tarakeshwar Mahadev Temple. This development will extend from Tarakeshwar Mahadev to Dattatreya Paduka, covering a distance of 300 to 400 meters.

As part of the redevelopment and restoration project, an official from the planning and designing company estimated the cost to be Rs 175.6 million. Additionally, the government plans to construct a dedicated plaza for wood sellers, which will include storage facilities. They also aim to build a ramp for water transport to facilitate the transportation of wood to the ghat. Furthermore, public toilets, drinking water facilities, and other necessary amenities will be provided for the convenience of the public.