Varanasi to Get Rs 2,200 Crore Boost as PM Modi Unveils Key Projects
The ancient city of Varanasi is on the cusp of a significant transformation, with a capital expenditure of over ₹2,200 crore earmarked for a diverse portfolio of development initiatives. These projects are strategically designed to balance the city’s profound cultural legacy with the imperatives of modern, sustainable, and equitable urban growth. From eco-friendly infrastructure to vital social services, the investment aims to enhance the quality of life for all residents while setting a new benchmark for green urbanisation in India.
A substantial portion of this investment is dedicated to strengthening the city’s core infrastructure. Projects such as the widening of the Varanasi-Bhadohi road and the construction of new railway overbridges are crucial for mitigating traffic congestion and reducing the city’s carbon footprint from vehicular emissions. A major focus on power infrastructure, including an investment of over ₹880 crore for a Smart Distribution Project and the undergrounding of electrical systems, signifies a long-term commitment to reliable and resilient power supply, a cornerstone of any smart, sustainable metropolis.
Beyond physical infrastructure, the developmental blueprint has a strong environmental and social equity focus. The inauguration of an Urban Miyawaki Forest at Kanchanpur and the beautification of numerous parks are tangible steps towards creating zero net carbon, green public spaces that serve as the city’s lungs. Additionally, the purification and maintenance of sacred water bodies, including several historic kunds, reflects a deep-seated commitment to ecological preservation and public health. This approach aligns the city’s spiritual identity with a modern environmental conscience.
The projects also address critical social and human capital development. The inauguration of advanced medical equipment, including robotic surgery and CT scan facilities at leading cancer centres, promises to revolutionise healthcare access for all, making it more gender-equitable. Investments in upgrading school buildings and the establishment of a new district library signal a robust push for educational advancement. These initiatives, coupled with the distribution of assistive aids to citizens with disabilities and the elderly, underscore a vision for a city that is not only smart and green but also compassionate and inclusive.
