Varanasi: In a significant move to ease traffic congestion and improve tourist amenities, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation has fast-tracked the construction of a mechanised multi-level car parking facility at Assi Ghat. The four-storey parking structure, to be built at an estimated cost of ₹9.84 crore, is expected to provide major relief from chronic traffic jams in the busy ghat area.
Alongside the parking project, the municipal body has also proposed the construction of a modern food plaza at a cost of ₹2.14 crore. The facility aims to offer domestic and international tourists a convenient space to experience Banarasi cuisine within a single, well-organised complex, further strengthening the city’s tourism infrastructure.
Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal on Friday conducted a detailed inspection of Assi Ghat and the Bhadaini area to review the progress of the proposed projects. During the visit, he assessed works planned under the Chief Minister Global City Development Scheme (CM-VNY) and instructed officials to ensure strict adherence to quality standards and timely completion.
Officials informed that the responsibility for constructing the four-level mechanised parking facility has been assigned to CNDS by the state government. Addressing the inspection team, the Municipal Commissioner noted that Assi Ghat witnesses a heavy daily influx of pilgrims, tourists, and local residents, leading to severe parking shortages and traffic bottlenecks. The primary objective of the mechanised parking system is to regulate vehicular pressure and provide a long-term solution to the area’s parking woes.
Nagpal emphasised that strengthening urban infrastructure and enhancing city aesthetics remain top priorities of the municipal corporation. “Varanasi is a global spiritual and cultural destination. It is essential that visitors receive smooth, safe, and modern civic facilities,” he said.
Bhadaini Raw Pumping Station to Be Revamped
During the same inspection tour, the Municipal Commissioner also reviewed the Bhadaini Raw Pumping Station. He directed officials from the Jal Kal department to immediately begin beautification and improvement works at the facility. Stressing the importance of water management infrastructure, Nagpal said such installations must not only be technically sound but also clean, organised, and visually presentable.
Senior officials, including the Chief Civil Engineer, General Manager of Jal Kal, junior engineers from CNDS, and other concerned officers, were present during the inspection. Following the review, clear instructions were issued to complete all projects swiftly and in accordance with prescribed standards, ensuring timely benefits for residents and tourists alike.
