New Delhi:
With the aim of improving the infrastructure in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Lok Sabha constituency of Varanasi and equipping it with all the modern amenities, Urban Development Ministry on Friday took stock of the essential facilities in the heritage city.
A meeting of the officials concerned from the heritage city was held in New Delhi to chalk out an action plan for the development of Varanasi, said UD ministry sources.
The mayor of Varanasi, two MLAs from the city and senior officials of urban local bodies like Varanasi Municipal Corporation, Varanasi Development Authority, Jal Nigam and Town Planning officials attended the meeting which was convened by UD Secretary Shankar Aggarwal.
The objective of the meeting was to take stock of the infrastructure scenario in the city and obtain the views and suggestions of all concerned regarding its development.
At the meeting, the issues of urban mobility in Varanasi and the infrastructural availability in respect of water supply, drainage and sewerage systems were discussed in detail along with the projects which are in progress, sources said.
Mr Aggarwal urged all the agencies concerned to inform the ministry about their overall plans for execution of projects along with the timeframe for the completion of the same.
He also sought the view of the officials on the development of small, new satellite townships close to Varanasi. The participants at the meeting felt the plan would be feasible if proper connectivity was provided with Varanasi.
Mr Aggarwal, meanwhile, made it clear that urban development was the responsibility of state and urban local bodies and the Centre could only provide some financial support and handholding. The central and state governments and all urban agencies concerned need to work together to develop Varanasi as desired by the Prime Minister.
During the discussion, such problems were also highlighted which arise due to a multiplicity of organisations involved in the planning and implementation of the various urban schemes.
Mr Aggarwal also sought the views of the participants as to which agency could be tasked with the execution of the Varanasi Development Plan under the Heritage City Development Scheme. The broad opinion which emerged was that the Varanasi Municipal Corporation would be the most appropriate body for the same.
It was also felt that Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi should be the nodal officer for facilitating better coordination between all the agencies concerned and the Uttar Pradesh government.
The objective behind developing Varanasi was to bring about a rejuvenation of the soul of one of the world's oldest living cities with a focus on conserving its rich cultural heritage while enhancing the quality of living, Mr Aggarwal said.
The city would also be promoted as a global centre of spiritualism, art and handicraft, he said, adding that its development should be geared towards ensuring inclusivity and employment generation.