In a significant move to accelerate growth in its eastern belt, the Uttar Pradesh government has officially notified the creation of the Kashi-Vindhya region. This initiative is designed to foster planned urbanisation and integrated development across seven districts, with the holy city of Varanasi at its core.
A New Vision for Eastern Uttar Pradesh
The state government, on Tuesday, issued the formal notification for the Kashi-Vindhya region. This decision follows a proposal from the central government in January to create a separate authority for the development of the Varanasi-Mirzapur-Sonbhadra corridor. After conducting preliminary surveys and urban spatial studies, the final region was demarcated.
The newly notified region spans a massive 23,916 square kilometres and encompasses seven districts: Varanasi, Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Bhadohi, Mirzapur, Chandauli, and Sonbhadra. The long-term vision is to integrate these areas into a cohesive metropolitan zone, driving economic activity and generating employment.
Structure and Leadership of the Development Authority
To oversee this ambitious project, the state has constituted the Kashi-Vindhya Regional Development Authority. This body will be chaired by the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. The authority will also include a vice-chairman and eleven other appointed members who will steer the regional planning process.
Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Planning Department, P Guruprasad, confirmed the administrative structure. This model mirrors the earlier creation of the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region and Other Regions Development Authority on July 19, 2024, which was formed to manage growth around Lucknow and its five neighbouring districts.
Roadmap for Regional Transformation
The immediate next step involves the housing department inviting proposals from urban planners and consultants. These experts will be tasked with preparing a comprehensive regional plan that will serve as the master blueprint for the area's future.
The plan will address critical elements required for holistic development, including:
- Enhanced road, rail, and air connectivity and public transport corridors.
- Identification of locations for new business centres and economic zones.
- Strategic land usage planning and development of industrial zones.
- Assessment and planning for infrastructure requirements like water, power, and sanitation.
The ultimate goal is to create strong linkages between the districts, promote sustainable urban growth, and position the Kashi-Vindhya region as a major economic hub in the state. This move is expected to unlock the immense potential of eastern Uttar Pradesh, bringing it to the forefront of the state's development narrative.
