Varanasi: Kashi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Once solely known for its spiritual aura, the city is fast emerging as a vibrant symbol of development.
On April 11, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for multiple development projects worth ₹3,880 crore in Varanasi. These projects mark yet another milestone in the journey of transforming Kashi into a modern hub, while retaining its rich cultural and spiritual identity.
Massive Push to Infrastructure and Heritage Conservation
From 2014 to March 2025, a total of 580 projects worth ₹48,459 crore were undertaken under the Kashi Development Plan. The goal: improving urban infrastructure, boosting tourism, supporting artisans, and preserving the ancient city’s cultural core.
Some of the landmark moments in Kashi’s development timeline include the launch of the Powerloom Service Centre in 2014, the inauguration of the Deendayal Hastkala Sankul in 2017, the unveiling of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in 2021, and the introduction of India’s first overnight private train—the Maha Kaal Express—in 2020.
Tourism Transformed: From Pilgrimage to Premium Experience
Tourism in Kashi has seen a major facelift. The MV Ganga Vilas, the world’s longest river cruise, was flagged off by PM Modi in January 2023, offering a 51-day luxury journey from Varanasi to Dibrugarh.
The Tent City, launched on the banks opposite the Varanasi ghats, offers luxury riverside accommodation and aims to decongest the city during peak pilgrimage seasons.
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, inaugurated in 2021, connects the temple directly to the Ganga via a broad, well-lit pathway, significantly enhancing pilgrim access and experience.
Monument Illumination & Riverfront Beautification
To enhance Varanasi’s visual appeal, several historic sites like Dhamekh Stupa, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and Dashashwamedh Ghat have been illuminated. These initiatives aim to enrich night-time tourism and promote the city’s historical richness.
Additionally, major riverfront developments such as the redeveloped Namo Ghat, cruise jetties, and viewing decks have made the ghats more accessible, cleaner, and tourist-friendly.
Infrastructure Upgrades on Fast Track
Kashi is witnessing large-scale infrastructure development. The Varanasi-Gorakhpur NH-20 and NH-19 have improved intercity connectivity. Over ₹980 crore has been invested in flyovers, bridges, and an airport underpass.
Smart city projects worth ₹590 crore have improved urban mobility, sewage treatment, and water supply systems. The Goitha Sewage Treatment Plant and an ongoing ₹300 crore STP project under the Namami Gange scheme reflect the city’s commitment to a cleaner Ganga.
Urban Transformation with Sustainability at Heart
Under the Varanasi Smart City Mission, diesel boats have been converted to CNG at a cost of ₹29.7 crore to curb river pollution. Additionally, ₹345 crore has been allocated under the Jal Jeevan Mission to enhance drinking water supply in rural areas.
The Godowlia Multilevel Parking Facility, built at ₹19.55 crore, has eased traffic congestion and improved parking solutions in the bustling old city areas.
Empowering Artisans and Promoting Handicrafts
Kashi’s artistic legacy—ranging from Banarasi silk sarees to Gulabi Meenakari, stone carvings, and wooden lacquerware—has been given a new lease of life. Many of these crafts have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags.
The Deendayal Hastkala Sankul, inaugurated in 2017, has emerged as a central platform for artisan training, exhibitions, and direct marketing. Built at ₹300 crore over 7.93 acres, it has been a game-changer for traditional artisans.
Health, Education, and Sports on the Rise
Significant strides have been made in education and healthcare. The PARAM Shivay Supercomputing Center at BHU and the Inter-University Teacher Education Center are setting new standards in research and training.
In sports, the redeveloped Sigra Stadium, inaugurated in October 2024 with a budget of ₹180 crore, is envisioned as a world-class facility for nurturing talent.
A City Rooted in Heritage, Ready for the Future
As Prime Minister Modi aptly said, “Kashi stands not only as a symbol of antiquity but also as a beacon of progress.” With a carefully calibrated blend of tradition and transformation, Kashi today is setting an example for how modern India can evolve—by revering its roots while building a bright, inclusive, and future-ready identity.
