NEW DELHI: In the Third Chapter of TOI Dialogues, key stakeholders from Varanasi came together to discuss the city's evolving infrastructure and its multifaceted impact on
tourism
, health, and
education
. The panel featured insights from Pulkit Garg, Vice Chairman of the Varanasi Development Authority; Deepak Madhok, Chairman of SGEI & President of Purvanchal Schools; Dr.
Sandeep Chaudhary, Chief Medical Officer of Varanasi; and Umang Sah, MD of Windmill Fans & UP State Council member of CII.
Pulkit Garg highlighted the continuous evolution of Varanasi’s infrastructure. He noted that public expectations have grown over time, with demands shifting from four-lane roads to six and eight-lane highways. He emphasized that infrastructure development is an ongoing process. Regarding the cleanliness of the Ganga River, Garg explained that it involves a multifaceted approach. The city has enhanced its sewage treatment capacity to 440 million liters per day (MLD), ensuring that treated sewage is safely released into the Ganga river. Furthermore, there is an initiative to shift from chemical fertilizers to bio-fertilizers. Garg mentioned the collaboration with IIT BHU on a detailed report to improve the Varuna and Assi rivers, reflecting a holistic approach to environmental sustainability.
Deepak Madhok shed light on Varanasi's transformation into an educational hub. Dubbed the "capital of knowledge" or "sarv vidya ki rajdhani," Varanasi has seen a surge in educational institutions. Since 2014, 150 new schools have been established, totaling 275 CBSE schools, with over 1500 schools when including government institutions. Madhok emphasized the integration of modern education and skill development into school and college curricula. The city's emphasis on skilling and modern education has led to the establishment of Atal Residential Schools and ITI institutes, significantly increasing student enrollment. He proudly noted that a student from Varanasi recently secured the second rank in the UPSC exam, underscoring the city's growing academic excellence.
Dr. Sandeep Chaudhary outlined the vision for Varanasi's
healthcare
sector, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of providing accessible medical services at doorsteps. Special projects focusing on maternal and child care, such as mini NRC (Nutrition Rehabilitation Center ) and MNCU (Mother‑Newborn Care Unit ) centers, NBSU (Newborn Stabilization Unit), and SNSU (Special Newborn Care Unit) units, have been initiated. Varanasi also caters to the broader eastern Uttar Pradesh region's medical needs. The recent foundation stone laying for a new medical college by PM Modi and the ongoing development at Kabir Chaura Hospital are significant milestones. Dr. Chaudhary highlighted the SanKalp project aimed at reducing newborn mortality to single digits and the Lab Mitra mobile application, which provides test results and medical details on phones. Additionally, 17 SPOC centers for heart attack treatment have been established, ensuring immediate care and reducing mortality rates from cardiovascular emergencies.
Umang Sah discussed Varanasi's remarkable industrial development over the past six to seven years. The city's strategic focus on airport and railway infrastructure, along with visionary riverways development, has bolstered its
economic growth
. Varanasi, the world's oldest city, is now rightfully presented on the global stage, leading to a boom in the hotel and education industries. The exponential growth in tourism is supported by proactive government measures, including road widening and airport infrastructure improvements to handle the influx of tourists.
The panelists presented a unified vision to enhance the livability of Varanasi for both residents and tourists. Pulkit Garg outlined plans for
smart schools
with internet facilities and Wi-Fi-enabled locations, aiming to foster skill development among students. Dr. Sandeep Chaudhary reiterated the health department's goal of providing medical services at the doorstep, ensuring no one dies due to a lack of medical assistance. Umang Sah envisioned Varanasi as a hub for entrepreneurs, supported by institutes that nurture young innovators.
They highlighted ongoing
development projects
, including the nearly complete urban ropeway—Asia's first—which is expected to be operational by the end of the year. This project offers a space-efficient alternative to metro systems, preserving Varanasi's heritage while improving
urban mobility
. Additionally, new townships and initiatives to improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion are part of the broader vision for the city.
With these coordinated efforts in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development, Varanasi is set for a transformative future. The city aims to blend its ancient heritage with modern advancements, becoming a model for holistic growth.
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