In a significant move for infrastructure development in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s constituency, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by PM Modi, has given the green light for a 43.218 km link corridor construction along the Varuna River in Varanasi. The project, costing Rs 10,998.32 crore, aims to ease traffic congestion in the city and enhance connectivity for pilgrims visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
The National Highways Authority of India will execute the project under the Hybrid Annuity Model. The corridor, mainly elevated with 6/4 lanes, will include a main carriageway, flyovers, loops, ramps, and service roads. It will link NH-31 to the Varanasi Ring Road, offering smooth access to key spots like Kashi Railway Station, Varanasi Airport, and the famous ghats.
Prime Minister Modi expressed on social media platform X the government’s commitment to improving connectivity for visitors to Baba Vishwanath in Varanasi. The elevated corridor is expected to set a benchmark for other culturally significant cities, enhancing the lives of residents. The project aims to reduce travel time between NH-31 and Kashi Railway Station by almost 50%, from 40 minutes to just 20 minutes, with an operational speed of 80-100 km/hour.
The corridor is a crucial part of the Varanasi decongestion plan and aligns with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. It will promote multi-modal integration and boost economic activities by facilitating access to various nodes in eastern Uttar Pradesh. The project’s budget includes funds for civil construction and land acquisition, with expectations of boosting tourism, facilitating pilgrimages, and supporting sustainable economic growth in the region.
