Varanasi: In a significant push towards urban development and economic revitalisation, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation has approved the construction of the ambitious “Namo Banaras Kendra,” a modern commercial hub to be developed at the Cantonment area of the city.
The proposal was cleared unanimously during an executive meeting chaired by Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari. The project will come up on 0.82 hectares of prime land at the Malgodam site and is estimated to cost ₹145.36 crore.
Designed as a G+6 multi-storey commercial complex, the project will have a built-up area of over 48,000 square metres and will house 844 modern shops of varying sizes, ranging from 155 to 655 square feet. The centre aims to provide a structured and upgraded marketplace for traditional weavers, traders, and businesses, particularly benefiting the famed Banarasi saree industry and local व्यापारिक समुदाय.
Officials said the project will follow a hybrid financing model, with approximately ₹100 crore expected to be mobilised through trader participation, while the remaining ₹45.36 crore will be funded through savings from State Finance Commission grants.
The initiative is being seen as a major step towards transforming Varanasi into a modern commercial destination while preserving its traditional economic base. Civic authorities noted that optimal utilisation of vacant urban land will not only boost municipal revenue but also enhance the city’s infrastructure and identity.
Digital Push for Healthcare Facilities
In line with the Smart City vision, the municipal body also approved expansion of free Wi-Fi services across key medical institutions. After successful implementation at major ghats, including Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat, the next phase will extend connectivity to prominent healthcare centres such as the Trauma Centre, Banaras Hindu University Hospital, and cancer treatment facilities. This move is expected to benefit thousands of patients and attendants visiting from across the region.
Encroachment Control and Civic Measures Strengthened
To tackle encroachment and improve traffic management, the executive committee approved strengthening of the enforcement wing. Nineteen additional personnel will be recruited through outsourcing, increasing the total strength from 21 to 40. The number of support workers will also be raised to ensure better on-ground coordination across all city zones.
Other key administrative decisions included renewal of the lease for a petrol pump at Maidagin with a revised monthly rent of ₹55,000, and approval of a simplified licensing system for homestays and paying guest accommodations with an annual fee of ₹1,500.
Auction of Old Vehicles and Faster Project Execution
The committee also approved the auction of 83 non-functional municipal vehicles, while keeping 31 relatively newer vehicles—procured through CSR funding—on hold pending further review.
Mayor Tiwari expressed strong dissatisfaction over delays in execution of civic projects such as road construction, sewer lines, and water pipelines. The committee has now mandated that contracts must be finalised within one week of tender issuance to ensure timely commencement of work. Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal emphasised strict adherence to quality standards, warning of accountability in case of lapses.
Land Approved for Power Substations
In another important development, the corporation cleared land allocation for new electricity substations in Salarpur and Pahadiya areas under relevant provisions of the municipal act. The proposal, backed by local councillors, aims to address long-standing issues of low voltage and power cuts in residential areas.
Once operational, these substations are expected to significantly improve electricity supply in Salarpur, Shivpur, Pahadiya, and surrounding localities, offering relief to thousands of residents.
Meeting Adjourned Amid Disruptions
The meeting was later adjourned following disruptions caused by repeated movement of officials in and out of the hall without permission, which drew the mayor’s ire. As a result, discussions on several public interest issues scheduled under statutory provisions could not be completed.
Senior officials, councillors, and members of the executive committee were present during the meeting, which marked a major step in shaping Varanasi’s urban and economic roadmap.
