Varanasi launches free computerised death registration at major cremation Ghats

In a historic move to streamline data collection and assist grieving families, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation has launched a system for the free computerised registration of bodies brought for cremation at the Manikarnika and Harishchandra ghats in the holy city.

On Friday, the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami, Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari formally inaugurated the “Free Death Registration” system by cutting the ribbon at Harishchandra Ghat.

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The free computerised registration system is now operational at both major cremation grounds. It will enable accurate and real-time tracking of the number of bodies brought for cremation at these two prominent ghats in Varanasi.

Inaugurating the service, the Mayor said that the Municipal Corporation’s efforts are not limited to cremation grounds alone. The corporation has also identified 12 major cemeteries for the Muslim and Christian communities in the city. A computerised death registration system will soon be implemented at these cemeteries as well, ensuring that all sections of society benefit from this facility.

He explained that the registration process is completely free of charge. The objective is to obtain accurate data on cremations taking place at the city’s main ghats. Families will only need to provide basic information and will not be required to pay anything. The registration slip will also facilitate the issuance of death certificates.

Until now, there was no accurate government record of the number of bodies arriving at the ghats. To address this gap, the Municipal Corporation has deployed staff in three shifts. These employees will be present at the ghats round the clock and will record basic details such as the name, address, and age of each deceased person.