Karnataka - Mysore   

A deluge of problems at Paschima Vahini

— PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM

Tale of woe: The ghats at Paschima Vahini near Srirangapatna.

MYSORE: The Paschima Vahini, near Srirangapatna, presents a picture of neglect. The ghats and the steps leading to them are on the verge of collapse.

Thousands of people come to the place to immerse the ashes of the dead. A priest, who has been officiating ceremonies here for several decades, said that any development here was last witnessed during the time of the Maharajas.

In summer, the water level is low and the banks are strewn with garbage. The water stinks as garbage is thrown into the river. During rainy season, people take risk to immerse the ashes of the dead in the absence of chains and meshes as at the bathing ghats. According to the local priests, there is a need to clean the banks and undertake dredging operations to ensure that there is enough flow of water during summer while ensuring that garbage is regularly cleared.

The bathing ghats need to be strengthened and the flooring has to be relaid the steps are in urgent need of repairs. Local people have suggested that chains be fixed along the banks to facilitate people to take a dip in the river without the fear of being washed away, especially during rainy season.

Located in sylvan settings, the area is historic and there are a few structures belonging to the period of the Maharajas. It was here that the then Chief Minister Chengalaraya Reddy took the lead in the ceremonies associated with the immersion of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes on February 12, 1948. A stone plaque records the event for posterity but it is now covered with weeds.

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