River in need: Redeveloping the Ganga Ghat
Loading...
Supplementary material
Other Title
Authors
Chauhan, Pankaj
Author ORCID Profiles (clickable)
Degree
Master of Architecture (Professional)
Grantor
Unitec, Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology
Date
2025
Supervisors
Budgett, Jeanette
Foote, Hamish
Foote, Hamish
Type
Masters Thesis
Ngā Upoko Tukutuku (Māori subject headings)
Keyword
Har Ki Pauri (ghat)
Vārānasi (Uttar Pradesh, India : District)
Uttar Pradesh (India)
India
ghats (architecture)
pilgrims and pilgrimages
architecture and culture
sustainable architecture
crematorium architecture
Indian architecture
Vārānasi (Uttar Pradesh, India : District)
Uttar Pradesh (India)
India
ghats (architecture)
pilgrims and pilgrimages
architecture and culture
sustainable architecture
crematorium architecture
Indian architecture
ANZSRC Field of Research Code (2020)
Citation
Chauhan, P. (2025) River in need: Redeveloping the Ganga Ghat (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional)). Unitec, Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology
https://hdl.handle.net/10652/6942
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION
How can redevelopment support the revitalization of the Ghat of Ganga and address the environmental impacts of the current usage patterns?
ABSTRACT
The Ganga River holds immense religious and cultural significance, worshipped as a goddess by 966 million Hindus who believe in its purifying and healing powers. The ritual of scattering ashes in the river symbolizes liberation from the cycle of rebirth. However, the sacred river faces a severe pollution crisis due to the dumping of incompletely cremated bodies, industrial waste, and untreated sewage, making it one of the most polluted rivers in the world. The increasing spatial overload at Har Ki Pauri, a major pilgrimage site, has further intensified pollution levels and disrupted the natural ecology of the riverfront.
This study proposes a sustainable redevelopment plan for Har Ki Pauri ghat, and crematorium to address both spatial congestion and pollution. By redesigning the riverfront with dedicated zones for cremation, rituals, and public spaces, the pressure on the main ghats can be reduced. Establishing modern, eco-friendly crematoria with alternative cremation techniques.
A new approach to the problem through identity is essential, as religious beliefs and cultural practices contribute to the pollution of the Ganga. By redefining the relationship between spirituality and sustainability. The integration of passive recreational landscapes, such as green corridors, cultural hubs, and heritage trails, will further strengthen the city's connection to the river, promoting regional art, heritage conservation, and sustainable tourism.
This study will explore how riverfront development, when guided by identity-based solutions and sustainable design, can reconcile spiritual practices with environmental conservation. By balancing religious significance, urban planning, and ecological restoration, the redevelopment of Har Ki Pauri and adjacent ghats can serve as a model for other sacred riverfronts, ensuring the long-term revival of the Gang and its environment.
Publisher
Permanent link
Link to ePress publication
DOI
Copyright holder
Author
Copyright notice
All rights reserved