VARANASI: The long-neglected and underused Khidkiya Ghat will transform into a popular ghat from next year as the CNG station for refuelling boats and a giant platform of the multimodal terminal will become operational.
All the 81 ghats from Assi to Rajghat along the Ganga have their spiritual, religious and tourist importance, but the Khidkiya Ghat lay neglected for years despite being adjacent to Rajghat.
Divisional commissioner Deepak Agrawal said the Rs 31 crore redevelopment project of Khidkiyaghat under Smart City will include setting up of a multipurpose giant platform at the ghat for holding cultural events. A water sports centre will also be developed .
A helipad is also being constructed for landing of choppers, he said adding, the Gas Authority of India Limited will start a CNG station and jetty with 40 dispensers at the ghat, which already has a jetty for cruise boats.