(Feature Image: Boatmen protesting against Ganga water taxi project in Kashi. Source: Live VNS News, 06 July 2023)

The Boatmen Association of Varanasi has opposed the government move to introduce taxi service for tourists and pilgrims to travel along Ganga Ghats as it will hit the livelihoods of some 5000 families. The government did not think it even necessary to consult the boatmen or their association and take them into confidence. Even when the concerned boatmen tried to meet the officials, no proper information was shared with them. The commercialisation of the river transport and profiteering from it for a few at the cost of thousands of poor boatmen will neither be desirable nor sustainable. The least the administration should have done is to discuss the proposal with the boatmen and suggested via media to upgrade some of the boats gradually, ensuring that the livelihoods of thousands is not affected.

Continue reading “DRP NB 100723: Varanasi Boatmen oppose Ganga Taxi Service” →