Demolition Begins in Dalmandi As UP Govt Moves Ahead With Project To Ease Access To Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Demolition work has begun in Varanasi’s historic Dalmandi area as part of the Rs 216-crore road-widening project aimed at easing congestion and improving access to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, reported Indian Express.

The Public Works Department plans to widen the 650-metre-long lane from its current 2.5-5 metres to around 17 metres. Officials have identified nearly 190 structures for acquisition and compensation. They have also started registration and measurement drives, urging property owners to submit documents at a nearby camp office.

Alongside the demolitions, the municipal corporation and electricity department are making an effort to collect unpaid dues after issuing notices. On 4 November, the latter cut connections to 22 properties as they had pending bills amounting to Rs 20 lakh.

According to a report by Jagran, the electricity department is looking to recover Rs 5 crore from 270 customers in the lane. But the situation is complicated as traders have been affected by a loss of earnings and are uncertain about their future, i.e. the compensation they would receive, whether they would be relocated and by when would be they be rehabilitated.

While officials maintain that due process has been followed, there are allegations of inadequate notice and arbitrary action. Several occupants, who are tenants and are not entitled to compensation that is being provided to building owners, have demanded 'shop-for-shop' rehabilitation.

Officials say they aim to complete the project by March 2026, promising improved access to the Kashi Vishwanath corridor.

Also Read: Ground Report From Dalmandi: Widening A Historic Lane Near Kashi Vishwanath Reveals Complexities Of Temple Town Development