Varanasi: The demolition of over 40 buildings will intensify from Saturday as part of the Dalmandi road widening project, following the acquisition of new properties. The drive aims to clear the path for a wider road to improve access to Kashi Vishwanath Dham.
Current Status of Building Acquisitions
On Friday, the Times of India checked the status of building acquisitions ahead of the resumed demolition drive. PWD Executive Engineer KK Singh confirmed that registries for 54 buildings have been completed, and Rs 39 crore has been distributed among 118 shareholders of these properties.
Previous and Ongoing Demolition Work
Earlier drives covered 62 buildings, some declared dilapidated by the Varanasi Municipal Corporation and others flagged as illegal constructions by the Varanasi Development Authority. During the new drive, remaining demolition work on those buildings will be completed quickly, alongside work on the newly purchased properties.
Challenges in Property Purchase
Officials noted that the failure to produce documents for nearly 100 properties is delaying the purchase process. Series of meetings with the same occupants are continuing to resolve this issue and complete the acquisition.
Project Details and Benefits
The Rs 224 crore project was launched to convert the 650-metre Dalmandi road into a 17.4-metre-wide road. This involves purchasing or acquiring a total of 187 buildings and razing them. The goal is to improve access to Kashi Vishwanath Dham's Gate-4 from the Naisadak point on the Lahurabir-Godowlia road and to shift load from other roads, especially the Maidagin-Godowlia route.
Security Arrangements
On the eve of the restart of demolition drive, heavy police force remained deployed near Gate-4 of Kashi Vishwanath Dham to monitor the entry and exit of Muslims reaching there to offer Friday namaz at Gyanvapi mosque.
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About the Author
Rajeev Dikshit reports from Varanasi, covering all beats across 10 districts in east UP. With specialisation in political, legal, crime, and developmental stories, he also explores religious, cultural, sports, lifestyle, and business stories. He enjoys writing features and long-form content, delivering comprehensive and insightful coverage to readers.
