Varanasi’s Landmark Renovation Project Enters Final Phase
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Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, this holy city has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the birth of religions, and the evolution of diverse cultures. However, its urban fabric and iconic landmarks were in dire need of restoration and revitalization. To address this issue, the Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) launched a landmark renovation project in 2016, which is now entering its final phase.
Varanasi’s Landmark Renovation Project Enters Final Phase
Varanasi Landmark Renovation Project
The Varanasi Landmark Renovation Project (VLRP) aims to restore, beautify, and conserve the city’s heritage buildings, public spaces, and tourism infrastructure. The project covers an area of 200 hectares, including the historic core of Varanasi, the ghats (riverfront embankments), the temples, and the markets. The VLRP is being executed by the VDA in collaboration with various government agencies, private firms, NGOs, and local communities.
Varanasi’s Landmark Renovation Project Enters Final Phase
Important Links
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External Link
Varanasi’s Landmark Renovation Project Enters Final Phase
Restoration of several heritage buildings and temples
The first phase of the VLRP focused on the restoration of several heritage buildings and temples, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Manikarnika Ghat, the Dashashwamedh Ghat, and the Gyanvapi Mosque. The VDA spent around 300 crore rupees on this phase, which involved the cleaning, repairing, and painting of the monuments, as well as the installation of lighting and signage systems. The first phase also included the development of a tourism circuit starting from Assi Ghat to Rajghat, which covers around 80 heritage structures and 11 heritage walks.
Varanasi’s Landmark Renovation Project Enters Final Phase
Second Phase of the VLRP targeted
The second phase of the VLRP targeted the improvement of the public spaces, utilities, and services in the city. This phase focused on the renovation of the roads, bridges, drains, and sewerage systems, as well as the installation of waste management facilities, public toilets, and water supply systems. The VDA spent around 500 crore rupees on this phase, which involved the collaboration and participation of the local communities and the civic bodies. The second phase also included the launch of several initiatives to promote Varanasi’s cultural and creative industries, such as the revival of the handloom sector and the promotion of local cuisine and music.
Varanasi’s Landmark Renovation Project Enters Final Phase
Third and Final phase of the VLRP
The third and final phase of the VLRP will enhance the tourism amenities and infrastructure in Varanasi. This phase aims to create a world-class tourism destination that caters to the diverse needs and preferences of the domestic and international visitors. The VDA plans to invest around 1000 crore rupees in this phase, which will cover several initiatives, such as the redevelopment of the Sarnath Archaeological Site, the improvement of the riverfront promenade, the construction of a new airport terminal, and the introduction of modern transportation and communication systems.
Varanasi’s Landmark Renovation Project Enters Final Phase
Tourism Infrastructure Development
The VLRP is an ambitious and complex project that requires the coordination and collaboration of multiple stakeholders. The project has faced several challenges and controversies, such as the displacement of the local vendors and the opposition from some religious groups. However, the VDA has tried to address these issues through consultations, dialogue, and compensation measures. The VLRP has also received international recognition and funding, such as the UNESCO’s approval of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple corridor project and the World Bank’s support for the tourism infrastructure development.
Development and Preservation
The VLRP is a major step towards the sustainable development and preservation of Varanasi’s unique heritage and identity. It showcases the potential and possibilities of public-private partnerships and participatory approaches in urban redevelopment. The success of the VLRP depends on the support and engagement of all the stakeholders, including the government, the citizens, the tourists, and the investors. The VLRP is not just a physical transformation of the city but also a cultural and social renewal that celebrates the diversity and richness of Varanasi’s past and future.
Varanasi’s Landmark Renovation Project Enters Final Phase
