Boatmen Protest at Rajghat Over Proposed

Varanasi: Traditional boatmen operating at Rajghat staged a protest on Thursday after they were reportedly informed about plans to remove their boats to make way for proposed electric and hydrogen-powered jetties. The move has raised serious concerns among local boat operators, who fear the decision may threaten their livelihood.

According to the protesting boatmen, they were asked to vacate the space currently used for traditional boat operations as part of a modernisation initiative aimed at introducing eco-friendly water transport facilities on the Ganga. While the project is being seen as a step towards sustainable tourism and cleaner transport, boatmen allege that their interests have not been adequately considered.

Raising slogans and gathering near the ghat area, the protesters demanded that the administration hold discussions with representatives of the boatmen community before implementing any such decision. They said thousands of families in Varanasi depend directly or indirectly on traditional boat services for their income.

“We are not against development, but it should not come at the cost of our survival,” said one of the boat operators, adding that alternative arrangements or designated areas must be provided before displacing existing boats.

Boatmen also expressed apprehension that the introduction of modern jetties could gradually reduce demand for traditional boats, impacting the cultural and historical identity of river tourism in the city.

Officials, however, have maintained that development projects are being planned with a long-term vision for Varanasi’s riverfront and tourism infrastructure. Sources indicated that efforts may be made to balance traditional practices with modern facilities.

The situation remains tense, with boatmen urging authorities to reconsider the decision and initiate dialogue to find an inclusive solution.