VARANASI, July 28, 2013: Despite efforts made by the district administration andVaranasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) to ensure a smooth stay for Kaanvariyas during Shrawan, the pathetic condition of city roads and lanes in Kashi Vishwanath temple area has marred the otherwise bright picture of Shraavan festivities and enthusiasm of Kanwariyas.

The condition of these roads has further worsened after the Friday night downpour. The numbers of Kanvariyas and other devotees is increasing in the city with nearing of the first Monday of Shravan month, when they will offer 'Gangajal' to Lord Shiva at many important shrines of the city, including Kashi Vishwanath. The camps at the Chitranjan Park, Rjatalab, Ashapur have become vibrant with the rush of Kanwariyas who stop here to get some rest and food at regular intervals during their journey. 

Rajendra, a Kanvariya from Ramnagar, has received several cuts in his feet which is not very unusual for Kaanwariyas who walk bare feet. "However, It is very early the injuries as I have just begun my journey but the roads in Varanasi are covered with big boulders and concrete at many places because of which, only in past two days I have received these injuries."

The team of a doctor and a pharmacist to attend to the Kanwariyas in any untoward condition, as promised by the chief medical officer (CMO), was also found missing at Chitranjan Camp. However, the CMO said that the team was present there.

The lanes in the Kashi Vishwanath temple areas are have sunk at several places after the heavy rain on Friday night. City mayor Ramgopal Mohale said he has received several complaints about the damaged parts of lanes in the area. "I have visited the area and have ordered the VMC employees to take prompt actions," he added.

The camps put up by the VMC cleaned regularly by the cleaning staff and a proper hygiene is maintained in and around the camp. However, the cleaning staff complained that devotees staying in the camp should also be careful about hygiene and cleanliness and should not dump waste and polybags in open and use dustbins kept in the camp for that.

Source: The Times of India, DT. July 28, 2013.