VARANASI, Oct. 5 -- In preparation for Dev Deepawali on November 5, an extensive cleaning operation is underway on the ghats of Varanasi. At least 70 diesel pumping sets have been deployed to remove tons of silt deposited on the ghats and their staircases after the monsoon floods.

According to a Varanasi Nagar Nigam (VNN) official, with the water level of the Ganga now receding, the pace of silt removal has been accelerated to ensure the ghats are completely clean ahead of the festival.

Silt removal contractor Vikram Kumar said the work is progressing rapidly. Around 10 pumps have been deployed at Assi Ghat, while 20 diesel engine pumping sets are in operation at Namo Ghat. Similar efforts are underway at other ghats across the city. He...