Kashi Changes into ‘Brand Banaras’ thru Smart City Projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a smart city has brought about a remarkable transformation in Kashi (Varanasi). The city, known for its rich heritage, has undergone a complete makeover as part of the Smart City project. With a focus on modernising basic facilities and incorporating advanced technology, Kashi is emerging as a symbol of progress. Since 2018, a total of 51 projects worth INR 1,017.69 crore have been successfully completed, while three ongoing projects worth INR 329 crore are expected to be finished by March 2024, well ahead of the parliamentary elections.

Today, the city is gaining recognition as Brand Banaras, showcasing its mart and innovative transformation. The city is embracing modernity while preserving its original form. Since 2018, projects worth INR 1,017.69 crore, covering 51 initiatives, have been completed.
Under the Varanasi Smart City initiative, a plan of around INR 1,017.69 crore was approved in 2018, leading to significant changes across various areas of the city. Furthermore, three projects worth approximately INR 329 crore are currently in progress and anticipated to be completed by March 2024.

These projects include construction of the International Convention Center ‘Rudraksh,’ Namo Ghat with modern facilities, advanced parking lots to address traffic issues, enhanced surveillance system, Integrated Command and Control Centre, widespread third eye surveillance, school rejuvenation, street and pond revitaliSation, park renovation, open gyms, ghats adorned with facade lighting and informative signage, live telecast of the aarti at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, charging stations for electric buses, etc.
A remarkable 2,294.91 km of wires have been successfully buried underground in Varanasi under the IPDS scheme. The removal of hanging wires has enhanced the beauty of ancient Kashi, with the streets and buildings now restored to their former glory. The cost of burying the haphazard wires across various areas amounted to approximately INR 650 crore.