Varanasi Master Plan 2031 PDF Map
The Varanasi Master Plan 2031 is a crucial step toward transforming India’s spiritual capital into a well-planned, sustainable, and modern city. By preserving its ancient heritage while integrating modern infrastructure, Varanasi aims to become a global city that seamlessly blends tradition and progress.
Highlights of Varanasi Master Plan 2031
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Residential Development | Expansion of planned residential zones to accommodate the increasing population. Development of affordable housing projects for low and middle-income groups. Modernization of existing urban settlements to improve living conditions. |
| Commercial & Economic Growth | Strengthening business districts and promoting commercial hubs. Encouragement of local handicrafts, including the world-famous Banarasi silk industry. Development of modern shopping complexes, wholesale markets, and retail centers. |
| Road & Transport Connectivity | Expansion of major highways, roads, and expressways to decongest traffic. Strengthening public transport infrastructure, including bus terminals and metro services. Improved connectivity between Varanasi and nearby cities via rail and road networks. |
| Heritage & Cultural Preservation | Protection and restoration of historical monuments, temples, and ghats. Strict zoning regulations around protected heritage sites to prevent encroachments. Maintenance and beautification of Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Ganga Ghats, and historic lanes. |
| Environmental Sustainability | Conservation of Ganga and Varuna rivers through pollution control and waste management. Expansion of green spaces, parks, and eco-sensitive zones. Implementation of rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge projects. |
| Infrastructure & Public Amenities | Upgrading sewage treatment plants and solid waste management systems. Establishment of hospitals, schools, community centers, and recreational parks. Enhanced drainage systems to prevent waterlogging during monsoons. |
Varanasi Urban Planning
The first Master Plan of Varanasi was drafted in 1948, followed by the Varanasi Master Plan 1991, which was approved on October 1, 1973. In 1974, the Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) was established to oversee planned development across the region, covering 793 sq km, including Varanasi city, Mughalsarai, and 608 villages.
Later, the Varanasi Master Plan 2011 was implemented to regulate urban growth, but due to changing demands and land-use modifications, an upgraded Varanasi Master Plan 2031 was initiated in 2009 to cater to the evolving needs of the city.