The Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) is embarking on its first major township initiative since the Lalpur Awas Yojana in 1994. The authority plans to develop three integrated townships, including a Sports City near the under-construction international cricket stadium at Ganjari. Backed by Rs 400 crore in seed capital from the state government and closely monitored by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, these projects aim to boost planned urban development in the city.
Project Details and Launch Plans
VDA Vice-Chairman Purna Bora announced that two projects—the 250-acre Anand Kashi Township at Kallipur and the 165-acre Rudra Vihar Township at Madhni—will be launched soon. Pre-launch formalities for the 160-acre Sports City at Ganjari are in the final stage. Landowners have contributed 45 acres in Kallipur and Madhni under the land-pooling scheme.
Land Pooling Model and Farmer Participation
For the first time, VDA has adopted the land-pooling model for township development. Instead of acquiring land, farmers become partners and receive developed plots in return. Bora noted that while farmers were initially hesitant, awareness campaigns highlighting benefits encouraged participation. The successful contribution of 45 acres has prompted more farmers to join the scheme. So far, VDA has distributed Rs 950 crore among farmers who contributed land.
Infrastructure and Investment
VDA is investing over Rs 200 crore in each township for infrastructure development. Projects will feature modern road networks, green spaces, civic amenities, and other essential urban infrastructure to create high-quality living environments.
Anand Kashi Township: First Theme-Based Gated City
Anand Kashi Township is being developed as Varanasi's first theme-based gated city, inspired by the cultural heritage of Kashi. The RERA registration process is underway, and the project is expected to launch in July. In the first phase, more than 300 residential plots ranging from 72 to 450 square metres will be offered, catering to different income groups. Plots will be allotted through a transparent lottery system at base rates.
The township is envisioned as a regional economic hub, including space for hotels, hospitals, schools, group housing, and commercial establishments. This will generate employment and boost economic activity in surrounding areas. Special emphasis is on sustainable and green development, with expert landscape planners designing an environmentally friendly urban space. Construction of the boundary wall, entry gate, and internal road network is underway.
Progress on Other Townships
Master planning for the Madhni and Ganjari townships is also progressing. VDA aims to accelerate planned and sustainable urban development in Varanasi by creating modern, green, and well-equipped townships aligned with the city's future needs.
After developing the Lalpur Awas Yojana residential township in 1994, VDA was unable to execute any major residential township project for over three decades due to various constraints. These new initiatives mark a significant revival of planned urban development in the city.
